European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

EFFICACY OF SUVARNA SHALAKA AGNIKARMA IN GRIDHRASI: A COMPARATIVE TRIAL WITH RAKTAMOKSHANA

*Dr. Tejashri Salve and Dr. Shilpa Badh

ABSTRACT

Background: Gridhrasi (sciatica) is a debilitating condition characterized by radiating pain, stiffness, and restricted mobility due to sciatic nerve compression. Ayurveda describes it as a Vata or Vata-Kapha disorder, managed through therapies like Agnikarma (therapeutic heat application) and Raktamokshana (bloodletting). This study compares the efficacy of Suvarna Shalaka Agnikarma with Raktamokshana in managing Gridhrasi. Methods: A randomized comparative clinical trial was conducted on 20 patients, divided into two groups: Group A (n=10) received Agnikarma on Days 0, 3, 5, and 7, while Group B (n=10) underwent Raktamokshana on the same schedule. The primary assessment criteria included pain intensity (Ruk), stiffness (Stambha), Straight Leg Raise (SLR) test, and walking speed. Results: Patients in the Agnikarma group showed faster and more sustained pain relief, improved mobility, and better SLR test outcomes than the Raktamokshana group. By Day 10, 80% of Group A patients reported marked improvement compared to 50% in Group B. No significant adverse effects were noted in either group. Conclusion: Suvarna Shalaka Agnikarma is more effective than Raktamokshana in providing long-term relief from pain and stiffness in Gridhrasi. It serves as a promising alternative for managing sciatic pain.

Keywords: Gridhrasi, Sciatica, Agnikarma, Raktamokshana, Ayurveda.