How Under-Nutrition (Karshya) is Responded to Ayurvedic Treatment: A Case Study

Abstract

Despite numerous global sensible corrective attempts to provide nutrition, undernutrition (Kaarshya) remains one of the most pressing issues. The bulk of the population in underdeveloped nations is undernourished. It is one of the main causes of death and morbidity in both children and adults. One of the eight components of primary health care in the worldwide campaign for health for all is the promotion of appropriate diet. A person who is malnourished is prone  to a slew of problems. It is a condition in which the body's fat and muscles are depleted. This is why it is critical to treat it to restore the body's normalcy. With its unique approach to lifestyle management and medication therapy, Ayurveda, with its holistic perspective, can aid with this disease. Swasthavritta (Community Medicine) has a part in Kaarshya management. Ashwagandhadi avaleha acts as an excellent nutritional treatment to alleviate the symptoms of Kaarshya in youngsters. As a result, Ayurvedic therapy for Kaarshya was arranged. After one month of treatment, the patient gained 1.5 kg of weight, and the next month, i.e., the  follow-up period, the patient exhibited substantial improvement in weight growth. Other anthropometric measures improved as a result of the therapy. The assessment was carried out over two months. Aim: To study the effect of Ashwagandhadi avaleha on BMI and weight in karshya. Materials and Methods: This is a single case study on underweight female. Ashwagandhadi avaleha was given for two months. Anthropometric parameters such as weight, body mass index (BMI), hip circumference (HC) and mid-arm circumference (MAC) and subjective parameters were assessed before and after 2 months. Result: Significantly increased in weight i.e. 2Kg was observed after two months. Conclusion: Regular intake of Ashwagandhadi avaleha significantly increases weight and body mass index in Karshya.