Impact Evaluation of Ayurvedic Treatment Protocol on Three Hundred Nineteen Cases of Different Variants of Pancreatitis

Abstract

Pancreatitis is an inflammatory disorder of the pancreas, affecting its endocrine and exocrine function. It is mainly associated with abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea, indigestion, steatorrhea, weight loss and diabetes. There are many variants of pancreatitis that have been broadly divided into acute and chronic pancreatitis. In both the conditions, patients may suffer with recurring episodes of the aforesaid symptoms with progression of the disease. Pancreatitis is conservatively managed by emergency hospitalizations, lifelong pancreatic enzymes and supplements with modifications in diet and lifestyle. Advance surgical intervention is also being used in some cases to provide long term solution. However, the benefits of such procedures are limited to certain pockets of the world. Owing to unpredictable nature of the disease and limitations of treatment possibilities, pancreatitis adversely affects psychological, physical and financial status of the patients. In this scenario, many patients opt for alternate medicines. A North India based Ayurvedic clinic has earned reputation in bringing complete and sustainable relief in significant number of cases of Recurrent Acute/ Chronic Pancreatitis (RA/CP). A data on 319 well diagnosed cases demonstrates that Ayurvedic Treatment Protocol (ATP) has been able to bring complete relief in significant number of patients, without causing any side effect. Statistical analysis of the data shows that the treatment brought significant improvement in weight and reduction in frequency of attacks. ATP comprises of a few Ayurvedic formulations that are prescribed for a period of one year, along with regulated diet and lifestyle as well as complete physical and mental rest. The main Ayurvedic formulation used in the treatment is Amar. Experimental studies conducted using Amar have demonstrated its protective properties against pancreatitis. Further research is being conducted for the systematic and scientific development of this specialized ATP.