Become A Member

Introduction: Inflammation is a central mechanism in many acute and chronic diseases, from arthritis to cardiovascular and neurodegenerative disorders. Ayurveda describes Shotha (inflammation and swelling) as a pathological state and prescribes Shothahara dravyas (anti-inflammatory herbs) for its management. Many of these herbs are now being validated in immunopharmacology research. Methods: This review synthesized evidence from Ayurvedic texts (Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya) and modern biomedical literature. Databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched (2000–2024) using keywords: “Ayurveda,” “Shothahara,” “anti-inflammatory,” “immunopharmacology,” and “herbs.” Inclusion criteria were original studies, reviews, and clinical trials evaluating Ayurvedic herbs with anti-inflammatory activity. Exclusion criteria included non-peer-reviewed reports and studies unrelated to inflammation. Results: Classical texts identify several Shothahara herbs, including Haridra (Curcuma longa), Nimba (Azadirachta indica), Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), Guggulu (Commiphora wightii), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), and Shallaki (Boswellia serrata). Their Dravyaguna properties (rasa, guna, virya, vipaka) correlate with anti-inflammatory actions such as detoxification, immunomodulation, and reduction of ama (metabolic toxins). Modern studies demonstrate mechanisms including NF-κB inhibition, COX-2 suppression, cytokine modulation, and antioxidant activity. Clinical evidence supports their role in arthritis, metabolic inflammation, and autoimmune disorders. Discussion: The Ayurvedic view of inflammation as a systemic imbalance aligns with modern concepts of immune dysregulation. While strong pharmacological evidence supports many herbs, gaps remain in standardization, dosage optimization, and clinical validation. Conclusion: Shothahara dravyas offer valuable leads for developing novel anti-inflammatory agents. Integrating Ayurvedic wisdom with immunopharmacology could advance safer, multi-targeted therapies for chronic inflammatory diseases.

KEYWORDS: Anti-inflammatory, Ayurveda, immunopharmacology, Shothahara dravyas, traditional medicine