EXPLORING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF PANCHAGAVYA TREATMENT ON RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS AMONG THE GADAG DISTRICT PATIENTS OF SOUTH INDIA

Abstract

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an immune-mediated and inflammatory condition affecting the joints, particularly the synovium. It commonly impacts the hands, knees, or ankles, with bilateral involvement. More women were affected compared to men, typically during middle age, and a family history increases the risk. Caustive factors include age, gender, genetics, and environmental exposure. Complications could lead to joint damage and other serious conditions. There is no cure, but treatments aim to alleviate pain and prevent further damage. This study evaluates the effectiveness of Panchagavya among the RA patients in the Gadag district.

Materials and Methods: A pre-experimental research was performed to assess the effectiveness of Panchagavya treatment among the patients with rheumatoid arthritis who attended medical camps conducted by Mahatma Gandhi Rural Development and Panchayat Raj University, Gadag, and Sankalpa NGO. A non-probability purposive sampling technique was adopted, with a sample size of 50 participants selected as per the opinion of Ayurveda and Panchagavya experts, considering the selected intervention and the available time and resources. The data was gatherd using a semi-structured questionnaire by obtaining the informed written consent from the participants.

Results: A total of 50 patients aged 30–50 years of age was recruited in the study. The reserach was conducted in rural villages of Gadag district. According to the 2010 American College of Rheumatology criteria, most patients demonstrated improvements in their functional status as well as reductions in Visual Analogue Scale pain scores and improvements in stiffness, oedema, redness, and tenderness. The results addressed every issue related to rhemaotoid arthritis and were statistically significant.

Conclusion: Rural areas experience a high incidence of rheumatoid arthritis, compounded by limited access to conventional medical care. Panchagavya, derived from indigenous breed cow products commonly available in rural households, has demonstrated potential as an effective therapeutic option due to its easy accessibility and cultural acceptance in these communities.