Patient Baseline
35-year-old female, diagnosed with Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (MCTD) two years prior, presented with Raynaud’s phenomenon, arthralgia, facial puffiness, fatigue, and episodic breathlessness. She had been on low-dose corticosteroids and hydroxychloroquine but reported relapse on tapering. Online consultation and clinical correlation indicated Vata–Kapha with Rakta–Mamsa Dhatu involvement and Saama Avastha (presence of Ama).
Treatment initiated with Deepana–Pachana at home for 10 days before IPD Panchakarma.
Panchakarma Protocols
- Tikta Ksheer Basti (16 days): For Vata–Kapha pacification and deep tissue nourishment targeting joints and muscles.
- Kashaya Dhara: Continuous pouring of warm medicated decoction to relieve inflammation and stiffness in multiple joints.
- Patra Pinda Swedana: along with Basti- to improve blood supply to the joints
- In later stage of the treatment: Snehana - external was done.
Improvements Observed
- Within 3 weeks, pain and swelling in small joints reduced by 50% and morning stiffness duration shortened from 90 minutes → 25 minutes.
- Fatigue and breathlessness episodes diminished, with significant improvement in energy and appetite.
- ESR reduced from 68 mm/hr to 34 mm/hr; CRP decreased from 28 mg/L to 11 mg/L by the end of 2 months.
- Skin tightness and facial puffiness subsided progressively.
- ANA titers showed downward trend after 4 months (clinically correlated with symptom stability).
- Emotional stability and sleep quality markedly improved after completion of Takra Dhara phase.
Treatment Outcome
This case highlights the effectiveness of a comprehensive Ayurvedic protocol in MCTD, focusing on restoring Agni, detoxifying Ama, and rejuvenating Dhatus. The patient achieved sustained remission, improved energy and flexibility, and emotional balance within six months of integrative management at Sukhayu Ayurved, Jaipur.