Assessment of Comparative Efficacy of Nutrileha against Ready to UseTherapeutic Food in Management of Karshya (Severe Acute Malnutrition) in Children: Randomized Controlled Trial
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Abstract
Background: Karshya, described as an Apatarpana Janya Vyadhi in Ayurveda, results from Jatharagni and
Dhatwagni Mandya, leading to Rasadi Dhatu Kshaya. Affected children present with emaciation, reduced muscle
mass, Shushka Shroni–Udara–Greeva, Dhamanijala, and Sthoola Parva. Malnutrition remains a significant
public health burden, particularly in developing countries, requiring effective, accessible interventions. Nutrileha,
containing Ashwagandha, Trikatu, Ghrita, Tila Taila, and Madhu, possesses Deepana, Pachana, Brimhana,
Rasayana, and Yogavahi properties that may support nutritional recovery in children with Karshya. Objective: The
objective of this study was to compare the efficacy of Nutrileha with ready-to-use therapeutic food (RUTF)
in children with Karshya/severe acute malnutrition (SAM). Methods: A total of 60 children diagnosed with
Karshya (SAM) were randomly assigned to two groups (n = 30 each). Group A received Nutrileha (1 tsp twice
daily) and Group B received RUTF (200 kcal/kg/day) for 90 days. Assessments were conducted on days 15,
30, 45, 60, 75, and 90, based on subjective parameters (Dourbalya, Agni, and Deha Kshaya) and objective
anthropometric parameters (weight, height, mid-upper arm circumference [MUAC], body mass index [BMI], and
weight-for-height). Results: Both groups showed significant improvement in subjective and objective parameters
(P < 0.05). However, Nutrileha demonstrated superior improvement in Dourbalya, Agni, Deha Kshaya, MUAC,
and BMI. Nutrileha also showed better enhancement of digestive capacity and nutrient absorption compared to
RUTF. Conclusion: Nutrileha (Group A) proved more effective than RUTF (Group B) in managing Karshya/
SAM, improving weight-for-height, MUAC, BMI, and subjective symptoms. Its Deepana–Pachana–Brimhana–
Rasayana actions support its role as a promising therapeutic supplement in childhood malnutrition.
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