Add on effect of Somavalkala kashaya siddha basti in the management of diabetes mellitus: A case report

Diabetes mellitus is a major health problem for the world in the 21st century. The side effects of medicines and persistent complaints make diabetic patients seek alternative therapy. Basti (~therapeutic enema) acclaimed as Ardha chikitsa, is an important Shodhana (~detoxification) procedure in Panchakarma. In general, Basti is contraindicated in Prameha, but many special types of Basti are described in the literature that can be used in distinct cases. This study aims to explore the prospects of Basti chikitsa in the treatment of Prameha. A 56-year-old male suffering from diabetes taking metformin 500 mg tablet twice daily for five years presented with the complaints of polyuria, burning sensation in both upper and lower limbs, weakness and cramps aggravating gradually. HbA1C level (11.6) revealed an uncontrolled blood sugar levels. He was treated with Somavalkala kashaya siddha basti regimen for three months. The patient had significant relief in symptoms such as Prabhuta mutrata, Pipasa, Karapada daha, Karapada supti, Avil mutrata, Klaibya, and Daurbalya after complete course of therapy. The HbA1C level of patient which was 11.5 at the time of registration which lowered to the 6.9, i.e. nearly normal range. Fasting blood sugar and postprandial blood sugar levels were 121 mg/dl and 232 mg/dl, respectively, at the time of registration which reduced after Basti regimen. Thus, Somvalkala kashaya siddha basti appears to be useful in the treatment of diabetes mellitus.