“Therapeutic Potential of Mundi Churna in the Management of Vatarakta: An Review”

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GOVERNMENT AYURVED COLLEGE AND HOSPITAL NAGPUR 440024
Contact No. : 7719026494, Email : aachal1805@gmail.com

Date of Acceptance : 25 Dec 2025

Date of Publication : 31 Dec 2025

Article ID : SD-IJAY_154

How to cite this article : http://doi.org/10.55552/SDNJAY.2025.3404

Abstract

Vatarakta occurs due to an imbalance of Vata and Rakta Dosha. The obstruction (Margavarodha) of Vata by vitiated Rakta leads to the manifestation of Vatarakta. It is a chronic condition that primarily affects the joints and surrounding musculature, resulting in pain, swelling, stiffness, and restricted joint movements. Because of its progressive nature and significant impact on joint function, Vatarakta is considered a serious disorder. The persistent pain and inflammation associated with this condition greatly impair quality of life, and many patients continue to experience recurrent symptoms despite advances in modern therapeutic approaches.

Mundi, also known by synonyms such as Munditika, Shravana, and Bhikshu (Latin name: Sphaeranthus indicus Linn.), is a medicinal herb traditionally used in the management of such conditions. It possesses anti-inflammatory properties, purifies the blood (Raktashodhana), and helps in restoring physiological balance.

Munditika Churna, described in classical Ayurvedic texts such as Chakradutta and Bhaishajya Ratnavali, is indicated in the treatment of Vatarakta. It exhibits properties such as Tridoshaghna, Shothahara, Vedanahara, Daha-prashamana, Raktashodhaka, Shoolaghna, and Vranaropaka. Owing to these therapeutic attributes, Munditika Churna may be effective in controlling the symptoms of Vatarakta and improving joint function.

KEY WORDS:-  Mundi, Vatarakta, Ayurvedic therapy, Anti-inflammatory, Raktashodhak.

Introduction

Vatarakta is a chronic musculoskeletal disorder described in classical Ayurvedic texts, characterized by joint pain, swelling, burning sensation, and stiffness resulting from the combined vitiation of Vata and Rakta Doshas. In contemporary medical terminology, Vatarakta is often correlated with gouty arthritis, a condition in which deposition of monosodium urate (MSU) crystals within the joints leads to intense pain, inflammation, and functional impairment[1]. According to the Charaka Samhita, vitiated Vata and Rakta initially affect the extremities—particularly the hands, feet, and digits—and gradually involve multiple joints, eventually impacting the entire body[2]. Based on clinical manifestations, Vatarakta shows close resemblance to gouty arthritis described in modern medicine.

Epidemiological data indicate that gout affects approximately 2.0–2.6 individuals per 1,000 population, with a higher prevalence among adults aged 25–50 years [API].

Sphaeranthus indicus Linn., commonly known as Mundi, possesses Tikta and Katu Rasa, Ushna Virya, and Katu Vipaka. These properties contribute to its therapeutic actions, including anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and blood-purifying effects, making it beneficial in inflammatory joint disorders such as Vatarakta [3].

Gout is a metabolic disorder primarily associated with disturbances in purine metabolism, leading to hyperuricemia. It is classified as a form of metabolic arthritis characterized by recurrent acute and chronic inflammatory episodes. These episodes present with redness, severe pain, swelling, and burning sensation in the affected joints. The inflammatory response occurs due to deposition of MSU crystals, which accumulate predominantly in the superficial layers of articular cartilage. Clinically, gout is categorized into four stages: asymptomatic hyperuricemia, acute gouty arthritis, intercritical gout, and chronic tophaceous gout [4].

This review aims to integrate classical Ayurvedic literature with contemporary scientific evidence to evaluate the pharmacological properties and clinical efficacy of Mundi Churna in the management of Vatarakta.

Discussion

Vatarakta is a complex pathological condition involving the simultaneous vitiation of Vata Dosha and Rakta Dhatu. The disease develops primarily through Margavarodhajanya Samprapti, in which the normal movement of Vata is obstructed by vitiated Rakta. This pathological process manifests clinically as Shotha (swelling), Shoola (pain), Daha (burning sensation), Stambha (stiffness), and progressive degeneration of joints, initially affecting smaller joints and gradually extending proximally.

Mundi Churna, characterized by Katu and Madhura Rasa, Katu Vipaka, Ushna Virya, and Laghu–Snigdha Guna, plays a significant role in interrupting the pathogenesis of Vatarakta. Its pharmacodynamic attributes such as Vedanasthapana, Shothahara, and Shoolahara render it therapeutically beneficial in alleviating the cardinal symptoms of the disease. Although well-designed clinical studies on Mundi Churna in Vatarakta are limited, traditional usage and classical references suggest its efficacy in reducing disease severity and improving quality of life.

From both Ayurvedic principles and modern pharmacological perspectives, Mundi Churna demonstrates considerable therapeutic potential in the management of Vatarakta. Contemporary scientific studies have reported its anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities, which contribute to symptom relief and reduction of disease progression. Mundi Churna (Sphaeranthus indicus Linn.) facilitates the removal of obstructions caused by vitiated Rakta Dhatu, restores normal Vata Gati, and alleviates pain and swelling. These combined actions effectively prevent further deterioration and help in breaking the pathological cascade of Vatarakta.

Mundi is extensively mentioned in classical Ayurvedic literature for the management of Vatarakta and other inflammatory joint disorders. Its therapeutic efficacy is attributed to its rich phytochemical profile, including sesquiterpene lactones and flavonoids, which are responsible for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties. These bioactive constituents play a crucial role in mitigating inflammatory responses, reducing pain, and regulating immune-mediated tissue damage, thereby establishing Mundi Churna as a promising natural intervention in the management of arthritis-like conditions such as Vatarakta.

Conclusion

Vatarakta is a chronic and painful disorder that primarily affects the smaller joints. It arises due to the vitiation of Vata Doṣha and Rakta Dhatu, leading to impaired physiological function. Clinically, the condition is characterized by joint pain, swelling, burning sensation, stiffness, and restricted movement.

Vatarakta, which closely resembles gout in modern medicine, is known for its recurrent nature and prolonged course, often resulting in persistent discomfort and functional limitation. Despite the availability of various treatment modalities, disease relapse and incomplete symptom relief remain common challenges. Therefore, there is a need for further research to identify safe, effective, and sustainable therapeutic approaches that ensure long-term symptom control and minimize recurrence.

Although classical Ayurvedic texts and experimental studies indicate the therapeutic potential of Mundi Churna in the management of Vatarakta, robust clinical trials are required to establish its optimal dosage, efficacy, and safety profile. Based on available evidence, Mundi Churna appears to be a promising, holistic, and safe Ayurvedic formulation for the management of Vatarakta. When used judiciously, it may serve as an effective treatment option in alleviating symptoms and improving quality of life.

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