Ayurvedic Management of Badhirya

Abstract

In Ayurveda, hearing loss is described as Badhirya, resulting from obstruction of Shabdavaha sira (blood vessel carrying sound) by vitiated Vata and Kapha dosha. This case report highlights the role of Ayurvedic management as supportive therapy in a child with persistent conductive hearing loss. Methods: A 9-year-old male child with bilateral decreased hearing for six years was evaluated clinically and audiologically. The condition was assessed as Badhirya (hearing loss) with Vata-Kapha predominance. The patient underwent inpatient Ayurvedic management including Deepana-Pachana (stimulate digestive fire and digest toxins), Brimhana (nourishing therapy) Rasayana (rejuvenating therapy) and Shodhana (purificatory therapy) therapies. Internal medications included Ashtachoornam, Krimighna Vati, Rasnadasamoola Ghrita, Ashwagandha choorna, and Rajanyadi choorna. Panchakarma procedures such as Takrapana (consuming medicated butter milk), Snehapana (consuming medicated ghee), Abhyanga (massage), Mridu Virechana (purgative therapy), Ksheeradhooma Nasya (nasal drops), Shirovasti (keeping oil in head), and Karnapoorana (filling the ear with medicated oil) were administered. Results: Pure tone averages reduced from 53.3 dB to 33.3 dB in the right ear and from 50 dB to 33 dB in the left ear. Speech reception thresholds improved from 55 dB to 35 dB bilaterally. Discussion: The observed improvement may be attributed to correction of Agni (digestive fire), reduction of Kapha obstruction, pacification of Vata, and nourishment of Dhatus. The combined use of Shodhana (purificatory therapy) and Brimhana (nourishing therapy) therapies likely enhanced middle ear function, immunity, and overall vitality.