A REVIEW ON THE AYURVEDIC APPROACH OF IRRITABLE BOWEL SYN-DROME WSR TO GRAHANI

Abstract

Irritable bowel syndrome is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder with no identifiable structural abnormality. It is characterized by abdominal pain or discomfort and altered bowel habits as major symp-toms. IBS accounts for more than 40% of new referrals to gastroenterology outpatient clinics. Diagnosis is done by Rome IV criteria. Etiology and pathogenesis is not clearly understood. In Ayurveda it can be man-aged with the concept of Grahani. The basic Samprapthi is at the level of Grahani and Pakwasaya which is as a result of Agnidushti. The symptoms of IBS are Tridoshaja with a Vatha predominance. Vatha has Sthanika importance also as Pakwasaya is the seat of Vatha. So, medicines with Deepana, Pachana, Anu-lomana and Grahi properties are ideal. Satwavajaya Chikitsa (psychotherapy) is helpful because of the involvement of psychological factors. Diet and lifestyle modifications with exercises and relaxation tech-niques have added benefit in the management since it has a chronic and relapsing nature.