Effect of Yashtimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra) extract capsule in the management of Karshya with special reference to Under weight-An open labelled clinical trial

Under nutrition is a widely acknowledged health issue in the developing countries of the world Under nutrition is a condition in which there is insufficient consumption, poor absorption or excessive loss of nutrients. Under nutrition can cause a range of health issues including weight loss, low energy, muscle wasting, anemia, infections and frequent illness. Under nutrition includes wasting (low weight for height), stunting (low height for age) and underweight (low weight for age).

According to both Asian and WHO standards, a Body Mass Index(BMI) of less than 18.5kg/m2 is classified as Underweight. The overall prevalence of underweight was 22.9% as per WHO, with approximately 10% of adults falling into this category. Among them, 6.2% of men and 7.0% of women are considered underweight.

Under nutrition can be correlated with Karshya in Ayurveda. In Karshya, mainly Vata dosha is vitiated along with Rasa Dhatu Dushti and Agni Vaishamya.

According to Acharya Charaka, individuals who are excessively lean (Atikrushya) are classified under Ashtaninditiya  Purusha  and Karshya is an Apatarpanjanyavyadhi.

Acharya Charaka has explained Brimhana as the primary line of treatment for karshya. Brimhana karma implies the action on Mamsa Dhatus promoting muscle tone and imparts a strong build. The drug possessing guru,snigdha, sheeta,sthira guna can cause Brimhana. These properties are primarily associated with Pruthvi Jala Mahabhuta.

Yashtimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra Linn) possesses Madhura rasa, along with Guru and Snigdha guna. Its virya is sheeta and vipaka is Madhura.

The active constituents of Yashtimadhu is glycyrrhizin , Glycyrrhetinic acid, Isoflavonoids, chalcones, triterpenoids, sterols, amino acids, amines, gums and volatile oils .The chemical constituents such as alkaloids, flavonoids, tannis and steroids(phytosterols) are present.

In aligning with the Ayurvedic concept of Eka Mulika Prayoga – which emphasizes the use of a single herb for therapeutic application, this study integrates traditional principles with modern scientific approaches. Specifically, it explores the utility of isolated plant extracts in standardized, cost effective formulations to enhance therapeutic outcomes. Considering this, a single-drug intervention using Yasthimadhu Extract Capsules in an optimized dosage has been selected for the current clinical study.