Comparative evaluation of efficacy of Pippalyadi Agada as an adjuvant drug vs. standard drug therapy in the management of acute food poisoning: A Study Protocol

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance, a pressing challenge in modern medicine, arises from excessive antibiotic use in veterinary and human care. Underreporting and complex links between food contamination and illnesses have led to underestimating foodborne disease impacts. The World Bank’s 2019 analysis projected $15B annual treatment costs and $95.2B productivity loss in low- to middle-income countries due to foodborne diseases. “Agada” refers to symptom-relieving medications, like “Vishaghnakalpa.” Pippalyadi Agada, from Vishaghana plants, treats “Dooshivisha Chikitsa,” e.g., Kitibha, rashes, shwas. It has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant properties, aiding acute food poisoning with nausea, vomiting, fever, diarrhea. It is a carminative, curbing prolonged diarrhea, and anti-toxic. Pippalyadi Agada pacifies imbalanced Vata and Kapha, promising better relief than Agni and Pittastana interventions. As an Ayurvedic remedy, it is administered as Vati, 500mg twice daily with Anuapan Honey for 7 days. This study aims to comparatively evaluate the effectiveness of Pippalyadi Agada as an adjunct to standard drug therapy in managing acute food poisoning. Following a comprehensive drug analysis, a total of 60 eligible participants will be selected and assigned to two groups, each comprising 30 individuals. Group A will receive standard drug therapy, while Group B will receive standard drug therapy alongside Pippalyadi Agad, administered twice daily for 7 days. Assessments will occur on days 0, 3, 5, and 8, both before and after the intervention. The study anticipates that the use of Pippalyadi Agada as an adjunct to standard drug therapy will lead to improved symptom relief and faster recovery in individuals with acute food poisoning, as demonstrated by significant reductions in symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, fever, and diarrhea. The observed outcomes will contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the potential benefits of Ayurvedic interventions in managing foodborne illnesses.