AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF CERVICAL SPONDYLOSIS WITH VATAGAJANKUSH RAS AND NASYA: A SINGLE CASE STUDY

About Author

Correspondence Address

Dr.Prerna R. Masatkar
Address: Plot no.34, Shri Hari Nagar,Manewada Ring Road, Nagpur, Maharashtra,440027
Contact No. : 9834707734
Contact No. : 9834707734, Email : prernamasatkar29@gmail.com

Date of Acceptance : 08 Jun 2026

Date of Publication : 30 Jun 2026

Article ID : SD-IJAY_173

How to cite this article : http://doi.org/10.55552/SDNJAY.2024.4201

Abstract

Cervical spondylosis is a degenerative condition of the cervical spine commonly seen in middle-aged individuals, characterized by neck stiffness, pain, and sometimes neurological deficits. In Ayurveda, it can be correlated with Greeva Graha, a Vata-dominant disorder affecting the cervical region. This case study evaluates the efficacy of Vatagajankush Rath and Nasty Karma in the management of cervical spondylosis. A 42-year-old female presented with complaints of chronic neck pain and stiffness visited hospital for treatment. After 21 days of Ayurvedic intervention, the patient reported significant improvement in symptoms without adverse effects. This suggests that an integrative Ayurvedic approach can effectively manage Vata-vyadhi, like cervical spondylosis.

KEY WORDS:-  Cervical spondylosis, Greeva Graha, Vatagajankush Ras, Nasya, Ayurveda, Vata Vyadhi

Introduction

Cervical spondylosis is a chronic degenerative condition involving the intervertebral discs and vertebrae of the cervical spine, often leading to neck pain, stiffness, and neurological symptoms. It is highly prevalent in individuals over 40 due to postural stress, sedentary lifestyle, and degenerative changes^.[1]

In Ayurvedic literature, these symptoms align with Greeva Graha, a Vata-dominant disorder affecting the cervical region. Aggravated Vata dosha in Asthi and Majja dhatus leads to degeneration, dryness, and compression symptoms^.[2]

Conventional treatments often offer only symptomatic relief. Ayurvedic management aims to correct the root cause by balancing Vata dosha and nourishing the affected tissues.^[3] Vatagajankush Ras, a classical herbo-mineral formulation, is indicated in Vata Vyadhi for its Vedanasthapana (analgesic) and Vatahara (Vata pacifying) properties.^[4] Nasya Karma, a form of Panchakarma, is especially beneficial in Urdhva Jatrugata* (supraclavicular) disorders.^[5]

This paper presents a case where the integrative use of Vatagajankush Ras and Nasya Karma provided significant clinical benefits.

AIM & OBJECTIVE:

This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of vtagajakush ras along with anutail nasya in the patient of cervical spondylosis on the Oeswestry neck disability score and range of motion along with ayurvedic symptom score, with reference to manyaghraha.

Discussion

The disorders of the joint and locomotor system are one of the results of the modern era. The vitiated doshas obstruct Vatavaha Strotas, leading to painful and restricted movements of the neck. The Manyagraha can be correlated with cervical spondylosis. Vata dosha and asthi dhatu have been said to be ashraya-ashrayi bhava. That means aggravation of Vayu causes bony degenerative changes in relation to Asthi dhatu kshyaya. Manyagraha, that this comes under Vatavyadhi and must be treated under the Chikitsa Sidhdhant of Vatavyadhi.Vagbhata highlighted the use of Nasya in Shula because of Vayu. Also, the place of the disease, Manyagraha, is above Jatru, hence Nasya is the choice of treatment. In Ayurvedic pharmacopeia, i.e., Bhaishajyaratnavali, Vatagajankush Ras had been advocated for various Vatavyadhis, especially for Manyasthambha/graha.

Probable mode of action of Vatagajankush Ras:

The formulation works through four primary therapeutic pathways:

• Nervine Stimulation & Pain Relief (Vedanasthapana):
  • Shudhdha Vatsanabha and Shudhdha Hartal act on the peripheral nervous system to alleviate Vatanadi Janya Vedana (neuralgic pain).
  • Nirgundi and Haritaki possess potent anti-inflammatory properties that reduce nerve root irritation.
• De-obstruction of Channels (Sroto-shodhana):
  • The combination of Sunthi, Marich, and Pippali (Trikatu) with Shudhdha Tankan clears Ama (metabolic toxins) and reduces Stambha (stiffness) by improving local circulation.
• Tissue Rejuvenation & Strengthening (Rasayana/Balya):
  • Loha Bhasma and Swarnamakshik Bhasma provide essential minerals to nourish the Asthi (bone) and Majja (marrow/nerve) tissues, preventing further degeneration.
  • Agni Mantha specifically targets neuralgia and helps in restoring muscle tone.
• Bio-catalytic Action (Yogvahi):
  • Parad Bhasma and Shudhdha Gandhak act as carriers, ensuring the active herbal components reach the deep-seated cervical tissues rapidly.

Probable Mode Of Action Of Anutaila Nasya:-

• In Ayurveda, Nasa hi Shiraso Dwaram (the nose is the gateway to the head), and Anutaila utilizes this pathway to address both the symptoms and the root cause of cervical distress. The medicinal properties are absorbed by the nasal venous plexus,

reaching the cavernous sinus, which helps in the absorption of the Bhasmas and herbs. The irritating properties of certain ingredients in Anutaila(like Tejpatra or Twak) liquefy the stagnant Kapha and Ama in the sinuses and cervical tissues.

• This "mobilization" clears the Srotas (channels), removing the stiffness (Stambha). Once the channels are clear, the Sneha (oil) performs its primary role:
• Oleation of Ligaments: The oil reaches the deeper Sandhi (joints) and Snayu (ligaments/tendons) of the cervical vertebrae.
• Vata Shamana: Since Vata is dry and cold, the warm, unctuous nature of Anutaila neutralizes it.
• Bruhana (Nourishment): It acts as a nutrient for the degenerated intervertebral discs, providing the "cushioning" effect

Conclusion

In conclusion, the combined effect of the oral vatagajankush ras and Anutaila Nasya provides a comprehensive approach to managing Manyastambha (Cervical Spondylosis). Cervical Spondylosis is a Vata-Kapha dominant condition involving Dhatukshaya (degeneration of discs/vertebrae) and Margavarodha (stiffness due to blocked channels).

• The Oral Formulation acts systemically as a Vatashamana and Balya agent. Ingredients like Vatsanabha and Hartal target the nerve-related pain (Vatanadi Janya Vedana), while the Bhasmas provide the necessary minerals to arrest degenerative changes in the Asthi (bone) and Sandhi (joints).
• Anutaila Nasya provides localized Snehana (oleation) and Bruhana (nourishment). By reaching the Sukshma Srotas (minute channels) of the cervical region, it liquefies obstructive Kapha (observed as profuse secretions) and then strengthens the Snayu (ligaments) and Kandara (tendons) of the neck.

The synergy between these treatments is clearly reflected in the patient's data:

• Restoration of Mobility (CROM): The shift from restricted movement to a normal 80°-90° range is a result of the Stambha-hara (stiffness-relieving) action of Trikatu and Tankan, combined with the lubricating effect of Anutaila on the intervertebral joints.
• Functional Rejuvenation (NDI): The dramatic drop in the disability score (from 18 to 3) signifies that the treatment did not just mask pain but restored functional integrity. The resolution of Pain Intensity and Headaches confirms the successful pacification of Vata at the Uttamanga (head and neck).
• Symptom Relief: The complete resolution of Manyashula (cervical pain) and Akunchan Prasaranyah Shula (pain on movement) proves that the Vedanasthapana herbs successfully desensitized the irritated nerve roots.

References

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   2. Sharma P.V. Carak Samhita (text with English translation)Chikitsa sthana adhyaya 28/18;Chaukhambha Orientalia; Varanasi: 1998 pg no. 462,
   3. Kaviraj Atridev Gupta,Vaidya Yadunandan Upadhyay edited Ashtang Hridayam of Vagbhatawith vidyotini hindi commentary chikitsa sthana adhyaya 21/1-4,Eightth edition 1982, chowkhamba Sanskrit Sansthana,Varanasi.
   4. 4 .Kaviraj Ambikadutta shashtri,Bhaishajya Ratnavali,vidyotini Hindi      commentary,Vatavyadhi Chikitsa Prakaran26/116-120;14th edition 2001, chowkhamba Sanskrit Sansthana,Varanasi,pg. no.383 .
   5. Kaviraj Atridev Gupta,Vaidya Yadunandan Upadhyay edited Ashtang Hridayam of Vagbhatawith vidyotini hindi commentary sutrashtana Adhyaya 20/1;3-4;Eightth edition 1982, chowkhamba Sanskrit Sansthana,Varanasi.
   6.  The Ayurvedic formulary of India By  Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia Committee 2^nd         edition,2003 Publisher: Controller of Publications,Delhi .
   7. Dr.Talmale S. Priyavratanughraha Part II;2017; Dhanwantari Publication Nagpur    pg.no.238,547,365,246,245,243,271,456,587.