SAFETY, EFFICACY, AND CLINICAL OUTCOMES OF VAMANA KARMA: AN EVIDENCE-BASED REVIEW

Abstract

Background: Vamana Karma, the therapeutic emesis, is a prime bio-purificatory procedure among the Panchakarma therapies described in Āyurveda. Traditionally employed for expelling vitiated Kapha and treating various systemic disorders, it has gained renewed clinical interest for its potential applications in metabolic, respiratory, and dermatological diseases. However, contemporary evaluation regarding its safety, efficacy, and clinical outcomes is crucial for its wider acceptance and integration into modern clinical practice. Aim:
To critically review and analyze the available evidence on the safety, therapeutic efficacy, and clinical outcomes of Vamana Karma in various disease conditions. Materials and Methods:
A comprehensive literature search was conducted using Ayurvedic classical texts, contemporary textbooks, and electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, AYUSH Research Portal, and Google Scholar. Clinical trials, observational studies, case series, and pharmacological studies related to Vamana Karma were included. Safety parameters, efficacy indicators, and reported clinical outcomes were systematically evaluated. Results: The review indicates that Vamana Karma demonstrates significant efficacy in Kapha-dominant disorders such as bronchial asthma (Tamaka Shwasa), obesity (Sthoulya), skin diseases (Kushtha), and certain psychiatric conditions. Clinical studies report improvements in biochemical markers, symptom reduction, and quality of life indices. The procedure, when properly indicated and executed following classical guidelines (Samsarjana Krama, Poorva Karma, Pradhana Karma, Pashchat Karma), has shown a favorable safety profile. Adverse effects, when present, were mild and manageable. Conclusion:
Vamana Karma is a clinically effective and relatively safe bio-purificatory therapy with promising outcomes across a range of Kapha-predominant and systemic disorders. Further large-scale randomized controlled trials with standardized protocols are warranted to strengthen the evidence base and ensure its optimal application in integrative healthcare settings.