Restoring gut harmony - Role of Grahani Chikitsa in the management of irritable bowel syndrome - a case report.

In contemporary society, the prevalence of irregular lifestyles, particularly nocturnal habits, coupled with sub optimal dietary patterns and heightened psychological stress, has significantly contributed to gastrointestinal disturbances. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), a multi factorial disorder, is often precipitated by stressors such as depression or systemic illnesses. Conversely, IBS itself may serve as a precursor to psychological disorders, underscoring the intricate gut-brain axis interplay. A symptomatic approach to management is insufficient, rather a focus on addressing the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms is imperative for sustained gastrointestinal health and overall well-being. Epidemiological data indicate that IBS affects approximately 12%-15% of the Indian population, with a female predilection, being three times more prevalent in women than men. Ayurveda views Grahani as both an organ and a functional entity, where Grahani Dosha refers to its impaired functioning. If this dysfunction progresses, it leads to Grahani Roga, which is characterized by chronic gastrointestinal symptoms. A comprehensive understanding of Grahani, in its context as an organ, Dosha, and Roga, is necessary to systematically analyze gastrointestinal disturbances. This case study discusses a 25-year-old male with a two-year history of poor appetite, weight loss, nausea, abdominal pain, frequent bowel urges, and alternating episodes of constipation and diarrhea, along with persistent insomnia. A structured treatment protocol was implemented to strengthen the gut-brain axis and manage Grahani Roga through internal and external purification therapies (Antar and Bahir Parimarjana Chikitsa). Over just 10 days, significant improvements were observed in the Rome IV criteria and scales related to IBS and anxiety. The findings highlight that Grahani, which involves altered bowel habits and nutritional deficiencies due to malabsorption, can be classified as a syndrome that results from a complex interaction of various disorders, making it one of the Ashta Mahagada.