Management of Guillain-Barré Syndrome through Ayurveda: A case report

Abstract

Introduction: Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is an acute, fulminant, autoimmune demyelinating disease of the peripheral nerves with an incidence of 0.34-1.34 cases per 100,000/year population in the pediatric age group, more common in boys than girls. Main clinical findings: A 4-year-old boy was carried to Balroga (Pediatrics) O.P.D. with complaints of inability to walk, pain with loss of movement in legs, and weakness in bilateral upper limbs. Diagnosis: Guillain-Barré Syndrome as per the modern system of medicine and Kapha-avrita-vyana vayu (a disorder of Vyana -subtype of vata seated in hridya, occluded by Kapha -dosha responsible for structure and lubrication) as per the Ayurveda approach. Interventions: The case was managed with Panchakarma (five purification therapies), including Udvartana (powder massage), Shastika Shali Pinda Sweda (Shashti rice fomentation), and Kala Basti (therapeutic enema), along with oral medicines, including Arvindasava, Lavana Bhaskara Churna, Ashwagandha Churna, Brahm Rasayana, and Swarnamuktadi Gutika. Outcome: Complete remission of symptoms and the child started walking without support. Conclusion: This case study suggests that early introduction of Ayurvedic treatment for Guillain-Barré Syndrome can result in complete remission and prevent disease progression.