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  2. Volume 1 | Issue 4 [September-December]
  3. VAMANA KARMA: A REVIEW OF THERAPEUTIC EMESIS IN AYURVEDA
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Ms. Shital Gaikwad

VAMANA KARMA: A REVIEW OF THERAPEUTIC EMESIS IN AYURVEDA

Introduction: Ayurveda emphasizes Shodhana (purification) therapies for eradication of disease at its root. Vamana Karma, therapeutic emesis, is a prime Panchakarma procedure predominantly indicated for Kapha disorders. It aims to expel aggravated doshas through the oral route, thereby restoring systemic balance and preventing recurrence. Methods: This review analyzed classical Ayurvedic texts (Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya), authoritative commentaries, and modern studies published between 2000–2024. Electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, AYUSH Research Portal, Google Scholar) were searched with keywords “Vamana,” “therapeutic emesis,” “Ayurveda,” “Panchakarma,” and “Kapha disorders.” Clinical trials, review articles, and experimental studies in English were included, while non-relevant and non-English works were excluded. Results: Classical texts describe Vamana as a seasonal and disease-specific detoxification therapy with preparatory (Purva Karma), main (Pradhana Karma), and post-procedures (Paschat Karma). Indications include respiratory diseases, skin disorders, metabolic conditions, and psychiatric illnesses dominated by Kapha. Modern studies highlight its physiological mechanisms—gastric stimulation, expulsion of mucous and toxins, neuroendocrine modulation, microbiome regulation, and improved metabolism. Clinical trials suggest benefits in bronchial asthma, psoriasis, obesity, hyperlipidemia, and psychiatric disorders such as depression. Safety under expert supervision is well-documented, though standardization challenges remain. Discussion: Vamana Karma bridges Ayurveda’s dosha-centric cleansing with modern detoxification and psychoneuroimmunological models. Despite promising outcomes, evidence is limited by small sample sizes, heterogeneity of methods, and lack of biomarkers. Conclusion: Vamana Karma is a potent bio-purificatory therapy with preventive, curative, and promotive applications. Integrating classical insights with modern scientific validation can enhance its global acceptance and clinical utility.

 

Keywords: Ayurveda, Kapha, Panchakarma, Therapeutic emesis, Vamana Karma