A Comparative Analysis of Vidarikand Vati (Pueraria Tuberosa DC) and Ashwagandha Vati (Withania Somnifera Linn.) for Karshya (Underweight): A Randomised Controlled Trial Research Protocol

Introduction: The term “karshya” refers to a person who is thin, weak, or malnourished. It originates from the root word “Tanukarane dhatu,” which translates to “Alpa, Suskshma” (small, subtle). According to Dalhanacharya, Karshya is characterised by a deficiency in Upachaya (growth), Bala (stamina), and Rupa (appearance). In Ayurveda, Ahara (food) is considered the most crucial of the three pillars of health, known as Tryopasthambha. Ayurvedic medicine emphasises the concept of Agni, the digestive fire, which transforms food into nourishment. Malnutrition occurs due to Mandagni, or weak digestive fire, leading to malabsorption and poor digestion. Karshya (underweight) is classified into aetiology, prodrome, signs and symptoms, complications, and chronic diseases, and is considered a poor predictor of overall health outcomes. Need of the Study: There are numerous research articles on weight gain. However, many nutritional and bulk-promoting products in the market are expensive and are known to have significant side-effects. Charaka Samhita mentions Vidarikanda as balya (strengthening) and bruhaniya (growth-promoting). It is a cost-effective and readily available bruhaniya herb for weight gain. Despite this, only a few individuals are aware of herbal medications to gain weight. Hence, this study is planned. Aim: To evaluate the comparative efficacy of Ashwagandha vati (Withania somnifera) versus Vidarikand vati (Pueraria tuberosa DC) in the management of Karshya (underweight). Materials and Methods: A double-blind, controlled trial will be conducted at the Mahatma Gandhi Ayurved College Hospital and Research Centre Salod (h) Wardha, Maharashtra, India from April 2025 to February 2026. Sixty patients (30 in each group) who are underweight will be included in this study. Group A (the control group) and Group B (the experimental group) will be treated with Ashwagandha vati (Withania somnifera Linn) and Vidarikand vati (Pueraria tuberosa DC), respectively, for 90 days. Patients will be assessed based on Body Mass Index (BMI), body weight, and body circumference (arm and waist) on Day 0, Day 30, Day 60, and Day 90. Statistical analyses will be performed using paired and unpaired t-tests. A p-value < 0.05 will be considered statistically significant.