Evaluation of efficacy of Virechana Shodhana Chikitsa and Navratri Upvasa Shamana in Sharad Rutu against Non Interventional Control group on Oxidative Stress in Healthy Volunteers

Abstract

ABSTRACT: newlineBackground: Oxidative stress plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of various diseases. newlineAyurvedic interventions such as Virechana (Shodhana) and Navratri Upvasa (Shamana) are newlinebelieved to have therapeutic effects in reducing oxidative stress. This study aimed to evaluate newlineand compare the effects of these two interventions on oxidative stress and antioxidant defense in newlinehealthy individuals. newlineMethods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with healthy participants divided into newlinetwo groups. One group underwent Virechana (Shodhana), while the other followed Navratri newlineUpvasa (Shamana). Oxidative stress was assessed using Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and newlineantioxidant defense was evaluated by measuring Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) activity. The newlineStress Index (SI) and Protective Index (PI) were also calculated. Data were analyzed using Ftests newlineto assess the pre- and post-intervention effects. newlineResults: Both interventions resulted in significant reductions in MDA levels, indicating a newlinedecrease in oxidative stress. SOD activity showed a significant increase, reflecting improved newlineantioxidant defense. Navratri Upvasa demonstrated a more substantial reduction in Stress Index newlineand a higher increase in Protective Index compared to Virechana, suggesting superior newlineeffectiveness in reducing oxidative stress. newlineConclusion: Both Virechana and Navratri Upvasa significantly reduce oxidative stress and newlineenhance antioxidant defense mechanisms. Navratri Upvasa was found to be more effective in newlineimproving oxidative stress parameters, indicating its potential as a more potent therapeutic newlineintervention for reducing oxidative damage in healthy individuals newline