ROLE OF PIPPALI DWAYA IN AUTOIMMUNE DISORDERS IN PERSPECTIVE OF AYURVEDA

Abstract

Background: Autoimmune disorders represent a group of chronic, relapsing conditions where the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues. Modern medicine explains these as immune dysregulations, while Ayurveda interprets them as outcomes of Agni derangement, Ama formation, and Oja Kshaya. Pippali Dwaya (a combination of Pippali – Piper longum fruit and root) has been described in classical texts for its Rasayana, Deepana, Pachana, and Ojovardhana properties. These actions make it relevant for correcting the root causes of autoimmune pathogenesis. Objectives: To explore the Ayurvedic rationale of Pippali Dwaya in the management of autoimmune disorders. To correlate the pharmacological actions of Pippali with immunomodulation and inflammation control. To evaluate the potential of Pippali Dwaya as a supportive therapeutic approach in chronic autoimmune conditions. Methods: This study is based on a literary review of Brihattrayi, Laghutrayi, Nighantus, and Rasayana-related texts, along with modern pharmacological studies on Piper longum. Research databases (PubMed, Scopus, AYUSH portals) were explored for experimental and clinical studies highlighting the immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects of Pippali. A comparative analysis was performed to align Ayurvedic concepts of Agni, Ama, and Ojas with modern autoimmune pathophysiology. Results: Ayurvedic analysis shows that Pippali Dwaya strengthens Agni, digests Ama, and enhances Ojas, thereby restoring systemic homeostasis. Modern studies indicate that Piper longum contains piperine and other alkaloids with proven immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hepatoprotective activities. These align with its Ayurvedic Rasayana effect. Evidence suggests its role in reducing inflammatory cytokines, modulating immune response, and improving tissue repair, making it a promising adjunct in autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis, and psoriasis. Conclusion: Pippali Dwaya, through its dual classical and pharmacological properties, offers a holistic approach to managing autoimmune disorders. Its ability to correct Agni, remove Ama, and enhance Ojas correlates well with modern immunomodulation. Further preclinical and clinical studies are warranted to validate its efficacy as an integrative therapy.