E-ISSN:2456-3110

Review Article

Musculoskletal Disorders

Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences

2025 Volume 10 Number 4 APRIL
Publisherwww.maharshicharaka.in

A critical review on effects of Rasayana in Musculoskletal Disorders w.s.r. to Rasna and Guduchi

Rahul H1, Lakshmi OS2*
DOI:10.21760/jaims.10.4.23

1 Rahul H, Assistant Professor, Department of Panchakarma, Vaidyaratnam Ayurveda College, Ollur, Thrissur, Kerala, India.

2* Lakshmi OS, House Surgeon, Vaidyaratnam Ayurveda College, Ollur, Thrissur, Kerala, India.

Musculoskeletal degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis etc are common diseases that lead to significant morbidity, reduced quality of life and also economic burden. In the management of these conditions includes pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions. There are standard descriptions on the Rasayana effect of Guduchi and Rasna in Musculoskeletal degenerative conditions. A concise summary of the article, outlining the focus on the role of Guduchi and Rasna in treating musculoskeletal degenerative conditions, such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Ayurvedic and modern references were studied and made a review on that. Also, several studies on the drugs were mentioned as supportive evidence for the same. Findings were recorded. Both drugs have shown promising results in clinical studies, with evidence suggesting that their combined use may help in reducing pain, improving joint function, and slowing the progression of musculoskeletal degeneration. The article further explores the pharmacological mechanisms underlying their therapeutic effects, potential synergistic benefits, for musculoskeletal health. Here briefly mention the medicinal properties of both herbs, their known benefits, and the need for further scientific exploration of their effects.

Keywords: Musculoskeletal disorders, Guduchi, Rasna

Corresponding Author How to Cite this Article To Browse
Lakshmi OS, House Surgeon, , Vaidyaratnam Ayurveda College, Ollur, Thrissur, Kerala, India.
Email: 		Rahul H, Lakshmi OS, A critical review on effects of Rasayana in Musculoskletal Disorders w.s.r. to Rasna and Guduchi. J Ayu Int Med Sci. 2025;10(4):158-164.
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Manuscript Received Review Round 1 Review Round 2 Review Round 3 Accepted
2025-03-10 2025-03-27 2025-04-07 2025-04-17 2025-04-27
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© 2025 by Rahul H, Lakshmi OS and Published by Maharshi Charaka Ayurveda Organization. This is an Open Access article licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ unported [CC BY 4.0].

J Ayu Int Med Sci 2025;10(4)158
Download PDFBack To ArticleIntroductionAim and ObjectivesMaterials and MethodsReview of LiteratureDiscussionConclusionReferences
Rahul H et al. Effects of Rasayana in Musculoskletal Disorders

Introduction

Musculoskeletal degenerative conditions, are a class of diseases related to the gradual structural and functional deterioration of muscles, joints, and bones, including osteoarthritis (OA), osteoporosis (OP), sarcopenia (SP) and inter-vertebral disc degeneration (IDD), are common causes of chronic pain, disability, and diminished quality of life, particularly among the elderly. OA, characterized by deteriorated cartilage and bone in the affected joints, and RA, an autoimmune disorder that causes joint inflammation, share common features of pain, stiffness, and eventually leads to loss of daily function because of chronic pain and fatigue. An approximate 1% of the population suffers from rheumatoid arthritis (RA), with more persistence in females than males. Patients may also have deteriorated cartilage and bone in the affected joints, which leads to permanent disability, with the progression of the disease. While conventional treatments, such as NSAIDs and corticosteroids, provide symptomatic relief, they are often associated with side effects, including gastrointestinal issues and long-term dependency.

The macrophage is an important pathogenic mediator in RA, and cytokines such as TNF-α and interleukin-1 (IL-1) become therapeutic targets. The drugs that block TNF-α decrease joint inflammation and also slow radiographic progression. In this context, Ayurvedic herbs, particularly Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia) and Rasna (Pluchea lanceolata), have gained interest for their potential role in managing musculoskeletal degenerative diseases. Both herbs are integral to Ayurveda’s holistic approach, addressing inflammation, pain & overall joint health through their anti-inflammatory, analgesic & rejuvenating properties.

Aim and Objectives

1. To put an insight on various references of Rasna and Guduchi.
2. To understand the Rasayana effect of Rasna and Guduchi in musculoskeletal degenerative conditions.

Materials and Methods

The material is taken from various texts like Charaka Samhitha, Ashtanga Hridaya, Susruta Samhita, articles, books etc.

Review of Literature

In Ayurveda, musculoskeletal health is influenced by the balance of the three Doshas- Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Joint and bone health are primarily associated with Vata, the Dosha responsible for movement, and its imbalance can lead to conditions such as arthritis. Ayurveda aims to restore balance by using natural substances, including herbs like Guduchi and Rasna, to correct Vata imbalances and manage symptoms of degeneration.

Ayurvedic References

The two primary causes of Vata aggravation are Dhatu Kshaya (tissue depletion) and Margavarodha (obstruction in channels). In the case of Sandhigata Vata, tissue depletion (Kshaya) is the main factor. Acharya Charaka defines it as a disorder resulting from the consumption of Vata-aggravating food and lifestyle habits, presenting symptoms such as swelling (Sotha), which feels like an air-filled sac (Vata Purna Driti Sparsha), and pain during joint movements, particularly flexion and extension (Akunchana Prasarane Vedana).[1]

Acharya Sushruta described Sandhigata Vata with symptoms such as pain (Shula), swelling (Shotha), and restricted joint movement (Hanti Sandhigatah).[2]

Acharya Vagbhata and other scholars have elaborated on the condition in line with the descriptions given by Charaka and Sushruta.

Similarly, Acharya Madhavakara also mentioned the symptoms of Hanti Sandhigatah and Shula (pain), consistent with Sushruta’s description.

Sandhigata Vata is considered Kashtasadhya (difficult to cure) due to its involvement with Marma, its location in the Madhyama Rogamarga (middle path of disease), the dominance of Vata Dosha, and its occurrence primarily in old age (Vridhavastha), a period characterized by Dhatukshaya (diminished Dhatu). These factors further contribute to its challenging prognosis. Acharya Charaka has recommended general treatments for Vatavyadhi, including repeated administration of Snehana (oleation), Swedana (sudation), Basti (medicated enema), and Mridu Virechana (mild purgation). Acharya Sushruta specifically outlined the treatment for Sandhigata Vata, which includes Snehana (oleation),


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Upanaha (poultice), Bandhana (bandaging), and Unmardana (massage). Additionally, Rasayana therapy can be highly beneficial in managing this degenerative joint disorder, as it helps slow down tissue degeneration and promotes the rejuvenation of Nava Dhatu (new tissues).[3]

Rasayana

The word "Rasayana" is formed from two Sanskrit terms: "Rasa," which means essence or nourishment, and "Ayana," meaning path. Together, they refer to the path of nourishment and its distribution throughout the body. Rasayana therapy primarily emphasizes the nourishment and rejuvenation of tissues. It encompasses various medicinal preparations, dietary practices, and lifestyle changes designed to improve the body's overall nutritional health.

As stated in the Text: Labhapayo Hi Sastanam Rasadinam Rasayanam” “Yajjaravyaadhi Nashanam Tad Rasayanam”[4]

Rasayana therapy plays a crucial role in promoting positive nutrition, strengthening immunity, enhancing longevity, and maintaining mental and sensory functions. Beyond fostering overall physical and mental well-being, Rasayana therapy also serves as a preventive measure against various diseases by boosting immunity and bio-strength. Additionally, Rasayana drugs function as antioxidants, which inhibit oxidation- a process that can generate free radicals and contribute to cellular damage. Given these benefits, Rasayana therapy holds significant potential in managing musculoskeletal disorders by slowing degeneration, improving tissue repair, and enhancing overall joint health.

Rasayana Drugs for Sandhigata Vata (Osteoarthritis):

Rasona (Allium sativum); Guggulu (Comiphoros mukul); Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera); Shunthi (Gingiber officinale); Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia); Amalaki (Emblica officinalis); Bala (Sida cordifolia); Masha (Phaseolus trilobus); Rasna (Pluchea lanceolata) and cow’s milk, Takra (buttermilk)[5]

Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia)

“Gudati Rakshati Rogebhyah Iti” [6]

Denotes “Guduchi protects from diseases”.

Synonyms

Guduchi protects from diseases and is known by the names Kandotbhava, Chinnarooha, Madhuparni, Tantrika, Vayasya, Jwaranashini, Soma, Jeevanthi, Amrita, Vayasya, Visalya, Soma, Rasayani, Chandralakshanika.[7]

Karma- Jwarahara (fever reducing), Rasayana, Sangrahi (accumulating), Dipana (activating digestive strength), Amahara (relieves Ama), Trisnahara (relieves thirst), Dahahara (relieves burning sensation), Pramehaghna (alleviate Prameha), Kasahara (alleviates cough), Kushtaghna, (alleviates skin diseases), Balya (promotes strength), Krimighna (relieves worm infestations), Chardighna (relieves vomiting), Arsoghna (cure piles), Medhya (promote intelligence), Hridya (good for heart), Chaksushya (good for eyes), Vayasthapana (rejuvenating).

Guduchi, often referred to as "Amrita" or "the nectar of immortality," is a climbing shrub widely used in Ayurveda for its immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifying properties. It is considered a Rasayana that helps enhance vitality and longevity. Guduchi is especially valued in treating inflammatory conditions like arthritis, where it is believed to reduce swelling, pain, and improve joint function by balancing the Doshas.

Rasa Panchaka

Rasa (taste) - Tikta, Katu (bitter, pungent)

Guna (quality) - Guru, Snigdha (heavy, unctuous)

Virya (potency) - Ushna (hot)

Vipaka (metabolic end product) - Madhura (sweet)

Dosha Karma of Guduchi - Tridosha Samaka (alleviates Tridosha), Vata Samaka (alleviates Vata) because of Ushna Virya (hot potency) & Madhura Vipaka (sweet after digestion). Pittahara (alleviates Pitta) due to Madhura Vipaka & Tikta Kashaya Rasa (Kapha Shamaka bec. of Ushna Virya (hot potency) & Tikta Kashaya Rasa (bitter, astringent taste)

Agrya Karma - Samgrahika (astringent), Vaatahara (alleviates Vata), Deepaneeya (appetizer), Sleshma Shonithavibandha Prasanaanaam (pacifies Kapha, pacifies Rakta and is useful in Vibandha.)

Rasna (Pluchea lanceolata)

Rasyate Sabtathe Kaphavatajith Ityaadi Gunayukta|


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Yadva Arasyate Aswadyate Sodhaadirogibhih Iti||[8]

Rasna plant is praised owing to its Kaphavatahara (relieves Kapha and Vata) properties. It is the best drug for Sotha (swelling) etc. diseases.

Synonyms

It is known by the names Rasya, Surasa, Sugandha, Sreyasi etc.[9]

Karma - Sophahara (relieves swelling), Swasahara (relieves dyspnoea), Vatasulahara (relieves pain), Kasahara (alleviates cough), Jwarahara (relieves fever), Visahara (relieves from toxins), Sidhmahara (relieves Sidhma), Pacaka (digests).

It is known for its analgesic, anti-inflammatory & anti-rheumatic properties. It is commonly used in treatment of musculoskeletal disorders, particularly those involving joint pain, stiffness & inflammation. Rasna is also considered Vata-pacifying herb, which makes it effective in conditions like OA and RA, where excessive movement of Vata causes degeneration & pain in joints.

Rasa Panchaka[10]

Rasa (taste) - Tikta (bitter)

Guna (quality) - Guru (heavy)

Virya (potency) - Ushna (hot)

Vipaka (metabolic end product) - Katu (pungent)

Dosha Karma of Rasna - Vata Kapha Samaka (alleviates Vata and Kapha), Vatahara (alleviates Vata) because of Ushna Virya (hot potency) and Kaphahara (alleviates Kapha) due to Ushna Virya, Katu Vipaka and Tikta Rasa.

Agrya Karma - Vaataharaanaam
Rasna is best for Vatavyadhi (diseases of Vata)

Pharmacological mechanisms, scientific evidences and clinical studies

Both Guduchi and Rasna possess remarkable pharmacological properties that align with their traditional use in musculoskeletal degenerative diseases. Modern research has begun to explore the mechanisms behind their therapeutic effects.

Guduchi
Anti-inflammatory effects:

Guduchi has been shown to inhibit the production of inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-alpha and IL-6,

which are implicated in arthritis. By suppressing these pro-inflammatory mediators, Guduchi helps reduce inflammation in the joints. Guduchi inhibits NF-k B signalling, a critical pathway in chronic inflammation.[11] An in-vivo study of methanol extracts of the aerial part of T. cordifolia on Mycobacterium tuberculosis in arthritic rats showed the anti-inflammatory effect of T. cordifolia. T. cordifolia altered the balance of pro-inflammatory versus anti-inflammatory cytokines primarily by down-regulating the pro-inflammatory cytokines.

In addition, the ethanolic extract of T. cordifolia inhibited two interrelated features of arthritis: such as inflammation and bone damage. T. cordifolia ethanolic extract also brought about changes in cytokines, chemokines, and mediators of bone remodelling, which play a crucial role in arthritis pathogenesis.[12]

Anti-osteoporotic activity

On aging, the loss of bone mass and strength are the most common signs and symptoms of osteoporosis, resulting in fragility fractures.

T. cordifolia extract in human osteoblast-like cells MG-63 and primary osteoblast cells in rats showed the osteoprotective effect in-vitro. In-vivo studies on rats indicated osteoprotective effects as well.

Cell morphology studies clearly showed the increase in cell numbers and absence of adverse changes in the cell structure after treatment with the extract.

Abirama sundari et al. (2017) investigated the effects of an alcoholic extract of T. cordifolia on bone remodelling in-vitro and protected against ovariectomy-induced bone loss in-vivo.

In-vitro studies showed that the ethanolic extract of T. cordifolia stimulated the proliferation of osteoblasts, but the aqueous extract of T. cordifolia showed no influence on cell proliferation. Study results revealed that ethanolic extract of T. cordifolia treatment on osteoblasts elicits pro-stimulatory effects. On the other hand, no such effect has been seen on osteoclast cells, thereby indicating that it has no effect on resorption in bone tissue.[13]

Antioxidant Activity

Guduchi exhibits strong antiox. properties, which are essential for neutralizing free radicals. Oxidative stress known contributor to cartilage degeneration,


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making Guduchi beneficial in preventing or slowing down progression of degenerative joint diseases.

T. Cordifolia is mentioned as Vishaghni (removes toxins), Vishahara (relieves from toxins) and Tridoshashamaka in various texts of Ayurveda.[14]

Immunomodulation

Guduchi has immunomodulatory effects, meaning it can balance the immune system. In autoimmune conditions like RA, where the body attacks its own tissues, Guduchi may help in regulating immune responses and reducing the autoimmune attack on the joints.

In Ayurveda T. cordifolia is believed to have Rasayana, Balya, Vayahsthapana (anti-aging), Ayushyaprada (increasing life span), Vrishya (aphrodisiac) and Chakshushya (for eye disorders) properties.[15]

Rasna

Pain Relief and Anti-inflammatory Mechanism: Rasna contains several bioactive compounds that possess analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that Rasna inhibits the production of prostaglandins, which are responsible for pain and swelling in inflamed joints.

Several compounds including taraxasterol acetate, psi-taraxasterol, querecetin, quercitin, isorhamnetin, neolupenol, neolupeol, sorghumol, sorghumol acetate and other constituents from Pluchea lanceolata, were investigated for anti-arthritic and anti- inflammatory activities. The ethanolic extract of Pluchea lanceolata showed notable anti-inflammatory activity.[16]

The compounds isolated from Pluchea lanceolata were subjected for anti-inflammatory testing which exhibited significant anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activities in carrageenin induced paw oedema model in albino rats.[17]

Joint Protection: Rasna may also help protect the joints from further damage by reducing cartilage degradation and improving joint mobility. It has been shown to have a muscle-relaxant effect, which helps reduce stiffness and improves flexibility.

Rasna in Vata disorders: As Rasna is specifically known for its ability to balance Vata, it is beneficial in conditions where Vata imbalance leads to joint degeneration, pain, and discomfort.

Discussion

Rasayana therapy holds a distinct position in Ayurvedic texts, primarily focusing on body rejuvenation. Based on its method of administration and range of applications, it can be effectively utilized for the improved management of degenerative joint diseases.

Guduchi in Musculoskeletal Conditions

A number of studies have explored the efficacy of Guduchi in managing musculoskeletal disorders also shown significantly reduce pain and inflammation in patients with osteoarthritis. It was observed that participants who took Guduchi experienced improved joint function, less stiffness, and a reduction in inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP).

Another study on rheumatoid arthritis found that Guduchi supplementation resulted in a decrease in serum TNF-alpha levels, which is a critical marker of inflammation in RA. This suggests that Guduchi may not only alleviate symptoms but may also influence underlying inflammatory proc. in chronic conditions.

Rasna in Musculoskeletal Conditions

Rasna has been traditionally` used to treat joint pain and stiffness, and recent studies corroborate these claims. Also, studies examining the effects of Rasna in patients with rheumatoid arthritis showed that Rasna supplementation led to significant reductions in pain, swelling, and joint tenderness. Rasna's anti-inflammatory action was attributed to its ability to modulate COX-2 enzymes, which are involved in the inflammatory process.

Moreover, Rasna has been shown to improve joint mobility in conditions like osteoarthritis by alleviating stiffness and reducing intensity of pain.

Long-term Management

By addressing inflammation, immune modulation, and tissue regeneration, Guduchi and Rasna can contribute to the long-term management of musculoskeletal degeneration, slowing down the disease progression and enhancing quality of life.

To treat Asthi Majja Gata Vata, drugs acting on both Vata and Asthi should be selected. So, it helps in the improvement of the general condition of health and thus strengthens the whole body.


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Conclusion

Degenerative joint disorders require early intervention to prevent disease progression and avoid permanent physical disability. Rasayana therapy should be incorporated into the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders to halt its advancement at the right stage. This approach offers multiple benefits, including enhanced nutritional status, healthier tissue regeneration, a stronger immune system, improved cognitive function, and overall longevity.

The combination of Guduchi and Rasna offers a promising natural approach to managing musculoskeletal degenerative conditions. Their individual properties as anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and joint-rejuvenating agents make them effective in treating conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. While modern research supports their therapeutic potential, more large-scale, clinical studies are needed to fully validate their efficacy and establish standardized treatment protocols. With continued research, these herbs may play a key role in integrative healthcare approaches for chronic musculoskeletal diseases.

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