Effect of Ayurveda Medications (Kasīsa Bhasma and Dhātrī Avaleha) on Iron Deficiency Anaemia: A Randomized Controlled Study

BACKGROUND: This paper explores the role that Ayurveda can play in the management of Iron Deficiency Anaemia, a major nutritional deficiency disorder affecting people across the globe. METHODOLOGY: Forty (40) patients suffering from Iron deficiency anaemia as per WHO guidelines, between the age group of 20 to 60 yrs of either sex participated in the study. Study was a randomized, controlled, open label clinical study. Patients were randomly divided into two groups: Group D (n = 20) received Dhārī avaleha 10 g twice a day after food. Group K (n = 20) received capsules Kasīsa bhasma 125 mg thrice a day. Both interventions were administered for 30 days and the subjects were followed up for next 30 days with placebo capsules to assess the sustainability of the effects. Assessments were done at baseline, 30(th) and 60(th) days. Primary outcome measure was hemoglobin estimation (Hb) and secondary outcome measures were the other hematological parameters such as Red blood cell (RBC) indices, total RBC count, Packed Cell volume (PCV) and Peripheral Blood smear study. RESULTS: Both interventions produced significant improvements (P < 0.001). Kasīsa bhasma was better compared to dhātrī avaleha in terms of primary (P < 0.0001) and secondary outcomes. Comparison of outcomes from base line – 30(th) day, base line – 60(th) day and 30(th) – 60(th) day showed significant (P < 0.0001) improvement in both the groups in parameters such as haemoglobin, MCV and MCH. Hence improvements sustained during placebo intervened sustainability period also. CONCLUSIONS: Study effectively shows that Kasīsa bhasma is better then Dhātrī avaleha. Improvements by both interventions were sustained even during the sustainability period.