“MANAGEMENT OF RENAL CALCULI (ASHMARI) USING AYURVEDIC SHAMAN CHIKITSA: A CASE STUDY”

About Author

Correspondence Address

Department of Kayachikitsa, Shri Ayurved Mahavidyalaya, Nagpur, Maharashtra.
Contact No. : 8605441350, Email : chetan26pachmase98@gmail.com

Date of Acceptance : 31 Mar 2026

Date of Publication : 31 Mar 2026

Article ID : SD-IJAY_168

How to cite this article : http://doi.org/10.55552/SDNJAY.2026.4109

Abstract

Ashmari is a notable disorder of the Mutravaha Srotas, described extensively in classical Ayurvedic literature, and corresponds clinically to urolithiasis in modern medicine. It is recognized as one of the Ashta Mahagada due to its severe pain, high recurrence rate, and potential for serious complications.¹ Mutrashmari (renal calculi or kidney stones) is also categorized as a Kaphapradhan Tridoshaja Vyadhi, with symptomatic urolithiasis affecting approximately 10% of men and 5% of women.² Conventional medical treatments are often costly, and recurrence remains a concern, emphasizing the need for safe, accessible, and affordable therapeutic options. While surgical interventions are commonly employed for kidney stones, they carry inherent risks. Ayurveda offers a detailed understanding of Ashmari and provides effective non-invasive approaches, including herbal formulations and lifestyle modifications, which can serve as a safe and practical alternative for both management and prevention.³

Keywords: Ayurveda;Ashmari; Mutravaha Srotas; Renal calculi; Urolithiasis

Introduction

Renal calculi, commonly known as kidney stones, represent a growing health concern worldwide, with an increasing number of cases attributed to improved living standards and dietary changes. The prevalence of this condition is influenced by multiple factors, including race, ethnicity, geographic location, and dietary habits. Consumption of diets rich in cereals, pulses, and fruits such as grapes and oranges, along with intake of water containing high levels of fluoride, has been associated with a higher risk of stone formation.⁴

Kidney stones not only cause significant discomfort and morbidity but also tend to recur frequently. Conventional medical management, although effective in acute situations, is often expensive and does not always prevent recurrence. In contrast, classical Ayurvedic literature describes Mutrashmari as a condition analogous to urolithiasis. According to Acharya Sushruta, various oral Ayurvedic medicines and herbal formulations are beneficial in dissolving stones and alleviating associated symptoms, offering a potentially safe, cost-effective, and sustainable treatment approach.⁵

The urinary system comprises the kidneys, ureters, urinary bladder, and urethra. The kidneys play a vital role in filtering blood, removing metabolic waste, and maintaining electrolyte balance by forming urine. This urine passes through the ureters to the bladder, where it is stored until excretion through the urethra.

Urolithiasis refers to the formation of hard, crystalline stones within the urinary tract and is a condition recognized since ancient times. The lifetime risk of developing renal calculi is estimated to be around 10–15%, with higher incidence reported in certain geographic regions. These calculi vary in size, shape, and composition and may develop anywhere along the urinary tract, from the kidneys to the bladder.⁶

Discussion

Mutrashmari (urolithiasis) is a urinary problem caused by the buildup of crystals in the urinary tract. Its occurrence has increased in recent years, mainly due to modern lifestyle habits such as unhealthy eating, lack of exercise, and stress⁷. Diets high in animal protein, salt, and processed foods can increase the amount of calcium, oxalate, and uric acid in urine while lowering citrate, a natural substance that prevents stones, which together make stone formation more likely. Men are more commonly affected than women, with a ratio of about 2:1, possibly because of higher protein intake and the effect of testosterone, which can encourage stone formation. Women are generally at lower risk because estrogen helps keep urine less acidic and increases citrate levels, which reduces crystal formation. However, recent studies show that the gap between men and women is slowly closing, likely due to changing habits in women, such as eating more processed foods, being less active, and experiencing more stress. Drinking enough water is also important because it dilutes urine and lowers the risk of stones. In summary, a healthy diet, regular exercise, proper hydration, and stress management are key steps to prevent and control Mutrashmari⁷.

Conclusion

In conclusion, renal calculi (Mutrashmari) is a common and recurring urinary disorder that can lead to severe pain and possible complications if not managed properly. Ayurveda describes it as a significant disease and provides a holistic approach for its management. Ayurvedic formulations such as Gokshuradi Guggulu, Chandraprabha Vati, Pashanbhed Churna, and Varun Churna may help in both prevention and treatment of kidney stones. These medicines work by increasing urine output, reducing the formation and accumulation of crystals, and protecting the kidneys from damage.

In addition, their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may help relieve symptoms like burning urination and discomfort. Early research and traditional use suggest their effectiveness in improving urinary health and lowering the chances of recurrence. Therefore, Ayurvedic management, along with proper diet and lifestyle changes, can be considered a safe, affordable, and supportive approach alongside modern medical treatment.

References

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