Comparative Study to Evaluate the Efficacy of Ashwagandha Ghrita Nasya and Ashwagandha Kwatha Pana in the Management of Hypothyroidism- A Randomized Trial Protocol

Abstract

In Ayurveda, hypothyroidism cannot be directly correlated with any single Vyadhi. However, its clinical manifestations, including puffiness of the face and eyelids, edema, dry and coarse skin, breathlessness, constipation, lethargy, myalgia, menstrual irregularities, and hair fall, resemble the features of Bahu Doshavastha, Rasavaha Srotodushti, and Mandagni. Objective: To compare the efficacy of Ashwagandha Ghrita Nasya and Ashwagandha Kwatha Pana in the management of hypothyroidism. Methods: This randomized comparative clinical trial will be conducted in the Outpatient Department (OPD) and Inpatient Department (IPD) of the Department of Panchakarma, Ch. Brahm Prakash Ayurved Charak Sansthan (CBPACS), New Delhi. A total of 56 participants with hypothyroidism will be randomly allocated into two groups. Group A will receive Ashwagandha Ghrita Nasya once daily for 7 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day interval. This treatment schedule will be repeated for four cycles (days 1–7, 15–21, 29–35, and 43–49). Group B will receive Ashwagandha Kwatha Pana (40ml) once daily on an empty stomach for 60 consecutive days. Outcome assessment will be performed using thyroid function tests (T3, T4, and TSH) and clinical symptom scores at baseline (day 0) and at the end of treatment (day 60). Expected Results: The study is expected to demonstrate improvement in thyroid function test parameters and reduction in the clinical symptoms of hypothyroidism in both groups. Ashwagandha Ghrita Nasya is hypothesized to show comparatively greater therapeutic benefit. Conclusion: This study is expected to provide clinical evidence regarding the comparative effectiveness of Ashwagandha Ghrita Nasya (Panchakarma intervention) and Ashwagandha Kwatha Pana (Shamana Chikitsa) in the management of hypothyroidism. The findings may contribute to strengthening the evidence base for integrative Ayurvedic management of hypothyroidism.