Effect of Panchatikta Ksheera Basti and Praval Panchamrut Vati in Asthikshaya w.s.r. to Osteopenia/ Osteoporosis – A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study

Background: Osteopenia and Osteoporosis are common prevailing ailments exhibiting reduced bone density and occur especially aging population. Various factors lead to Osteopenia/Osteoporosis including sedentary lifestyle and hormonal changes that affect the bone metabolism. Conventional management of Osteopenia/Osteoporosis focuses primarily on Calcium and Vitamin D supplementation. Asthi kshaya, a similar condition to Osteoporosis, has been mentioned in Ayurveda wherein vitiated Vata causes reduction in bone mass and is associated with same symptoms as Osteoporosis. Panchatikta Ksheera Basti is a formulation made from tikta dravya siddha Ksheera (milk decoction made from five bitter herbs), Panchatikta Ghrita and honey. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of Panchatikta Ksheera basti and Praval Panchamruta Vati in Asthikshaya (Osteopenia/Osteoporosis) and compare the same with the conventional treatment. Trial Design: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study. Method: Patients with signs and symptoms of Asthi kshaya and BMD (T-score) =<-1 were randomized, Group A (Trial group) patients received Panchatikta Ksheera Basti and Praval Panchamrut Vati while Group B (Control group) patients received oral organic Calcium and Vitamin D for 30 days. Primary Outcome: To improve the functional and physical activities of the patients. Secondary Outcome: To improve Serum Calcium, Serum Phosphorus and Vitamin D levels and BMD score. Results: Statistically significant results were observed in both the groups, however pain relief was better in Study group A, while Serum Calcium levels were significantly improved in both the groups. Conclusion: Panchatikta Ksheera Basti and Praval Panchamruta Vati have equal potential for addressing Asthi Kshaya (Osteopenia /Osteoporosis) in comparison to conventional management.