EFFECT OF SIDDHA BASTI ON INFLAMMATORY MARKERS IN AMAVATA (RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS): A CASE SERIES

Background: Amavata is a chronic inflammatory disorder described in Ayurveda, characterized by pain, swelling, and stiffness of joints along with systemic features. The disease occurs due to impairment of Agni, leading to the formation of Ama, which associates with aggravated Vata and produces inflammatory pathology. Elevated inflammatory markers such as Rheumatoid Factor (RF), C-Reactive Protein (CRP), and Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) reflect disease activity and systemic inflammation. Basti is considered the prime therapy for Vata disorders, and Siddha Basti is indicated in Amavata due to its Ama-Vatahara and Shothahara actions. Aim: To evaluate the effect of Siddha Basti on inflammatory markers in patients of Amavata. Materials and Methods: A case series of five patients clinically diagnosed with Amavata was conducted in the Department of Panchakarma, SDM Institute of Ayurveda and Hospital (SDMIAH), Bengaluru. Siddha Basti was administered for 8 days in Yoga basti pattern. Inflammatory markers—RF, CRP, and ESR—were assessed before treatment, after treatment, and at follow-up on the 24th day. Results: All patients showed a consistent reduction in inflammatory markers following Siddha Basti therapy. Further improvement was observed during follow-up, indicating sustained reduction in systemic inflammation. The response was more pronounced in CRP and ESR, while RF showed a gradual downward trend. Conclusion: Siddha Basti demonstrated a beneficial effect in reducing inflammatory markers in Amavata, suggesting its potential role in controlling systemic inflammation. The findings support the use of Siddha Basti as an effective Panchakarma intervention in inflammatory joint disorders.