INTEGRATIVE APPROACH IN PANDU ROGA (ANEMIA): BRIDGING AYURVEDA AND MODERN PERSPECTIVES
Introduction: Anemia, affecting nearly 1.9 billion people worldwide, remains a major global health challenge. Ayurveda describes a comparable condition under Pandu Roga, characterized by pallor, weakness, fatigue, and systemic dysfunction caused primarily by vitiation of Pitta dosha and depletion of Rakta dhatu. Conventional management of anemia includes iron supplementation, blood transfusion, and etiological correction. However, limitations such as side effects of iron therapy, recurrence, and incomplete restoration of systemic vitality warrant integrative approaches. Methods: This review was conducted through an extensive survey of Ayurvedic classics (Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya), modern biomedical literature (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science), and recent clinical studies. Search terms included Pandu Roga, anemia, Ayurveda, integrative management, herbal iron preparations. Articles from 2000–2024, including clinical trials, reviews, and pharmacological studies, were considered. Results: Ayurvedic management emphasizes herbal-mineral formulations (e.g., Lauh Bhasma, Navayasa Lauh, Punarnava Mandura), Rasayana therapy (e.g., Amalaki, Ashwagandha), and supportive dietary interventions. These approaches not only correct hemoglobin levels but also restore Agni, enhance tissue metabolism, and prevent recurrence. Modern studies validate the hematinic, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory effects of these formulations. Integrative practices combining iron therapy with Ayurvedic interventions show improved patient compliance, reduced gastrointestinal side effects, and better long-term outcomes. Discussion: Ayurveda provides a holistic framework addressing both symptomatic relief and root causes, while modern medicine offers precise diagnostic and therapeutic tools. Together, they create a synergistic, patient-centered approach. Conclusion: An integrative approach to Pandu Roga/Anemia combining Ayurveda and modern medicine offers safe, effective, and sustainable solutions for global anemia management.
KEYWORDS: Anemia, Ayurveda, Hemoglobin, Integrative medicine, Pandu Roga