Preprint / Version 1

Ayurveda intervention for brass-induced heavy metal toxicity: A report from the single-arm pilot study

Authors

  • Vivek Patel Dept. of Dravyaguna, I.P.G.T. & R.A., Gujarat Ayurved University, Jamnagar, Gujarat, India
  • Kalpesh Panara Dept. of Dravyaguna, I.P.G.T. & R.A., Gujarat Ayurved University, Jamnagar, Gujarat, India
  • Rabinarayan Acharya Dept. of Dravyaguna, I.P.G.T. & R.A., Gujarat Ayurved University, Jamnagar, Gujarat, India

Keywords:

Brass, Copper, Heavy metal poisoning, Lead, Pomegranate, Triphala

Abstract

Brass is a copper-zinc alloy that also contains additional elements, including lead. Industrial operations on brass produce dust and fumes that can be harmful to an individual’s health. Ayurveda recommends Dadima Svarasa and Triphala Churna for the management of symptoms caused due to brass toxicity. Objective To obtain preliminary evidence on the efficacy of Triphala Churna (powder mixture of three myrobalans) and Dadima Svarasa (pomegranate juice) in the management of brass-associated high serum level of copper, zinc, lead, and their harms through an open-label single-arm pilot study. Materials and methods A total of 20 workers with brass toxicity and increased level of one or more of the serum ions including copper, zinc and lead were prescribed. 5gm Triphala powder once daily and Dadima Svarasa 40 ml in two divided doses were administered daily for 28 days. Changes in serum concentration of heavy metals and common health problems like anorexia, headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, nose irritation, eye irritation, epigastric pain, abdominal distention, chest pain, dyspnea, cough, lumbar pain, body ache, numbness, and occupational dermatitis were reported at baseline and end of the trial. Results Trial drugs were found to produce significant decrease in mean values of serum copper (p < 0.001) and serum lead (p < 0.001) whereas significant increase in mean values of serum zinc (p > 0.001) was observed. Significant relief was observed in nausea (p = 0.005), anorexia (p = 0.000), epigastric pain (p = 0.001), abdominal distention (p = 0.014), weakness (p = 0.005) and body ache (p = 0.005). Conclusion Triphala Churna along with Dadima Svarasa are safe and effective in the management of brass-associated high serum levels of copper and lead and their health hazards. Keywords: Brass, Copper, Heavy metal poisoning, Lead, Pomegranate, Triphala

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