Myotonic Dystrophy Treatment in Ayurveda

ABSTRACT

Myotonic dystrophy is progressive muscle wasting and weakness of the muscles. It is a type of muscular dystrophy where there is a progressive weakness in the breakdown of skeletal muscles. It is the mutations of the gene which usually involve the proteins of the muscle which is inherited from parents. Neuromuscular disease usually affects the muscles and their nervous control and their voluntary muscles which communicate the nerves to the brain. It involves the cranial and spinal nerves, peripheral nerves and neuromuscular junctions which connect the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. This impairment is characterized by muscular impairment which leads to loss of mobility and weakness of muscles and sometimes respiratory failure. It further affects the arms and legs muscles and the nerves that control the muscles. The symptoms are progessive and weaken over time, affecting children, babies and adults. In this topic, we are going to discuss its signs, symptoms and its ayurvedic management in detail.

INTRODUCTION

Myotonic Dystrophy is a rare genetic disorder which affects multiple systems of the body and is characterized by weakness and degeneration of the voluntary muscles of the body. It is the most common type of muscular dystrophy which is commonly seen in adults. There is a mutation of DMPK (Myotonic dystrophy protein kinase) which causes a modification of the gene. This protein affects the cell’s communication and is generally of two types- The mild form (which is mid to late adulthood) and the Congenital form (which begins at birth). In this, there is progressive wasting of muscles and due to prolonged contractions, the muscles are not able to relax. In myotonic dystrophy, the muscles which are affected are far away from the center point. They may be X Linked to recessive, Autosomal recessive and autosomal dominant. It was described by Charles Bell, type 1 myotonic dystrophy is also known as Steinert disease and type 2 myotonic dystrophy is known as Ricker syndrome and proximal myotonic dystrophy.

FACTS

• It is the most common form of adult-onset myotonic dystrophy.
• It is a group of diseases which further affects the muscles of the body.
• There is weakness in muscles and prolonged involuntary contraction of the muscles.
• In myotonic dystrophy, there is cell connectivity which further affects the parts of the brain.
• It further affects the stability and personality changes in the person who suffers from myotonic dystrophy.

TYPES

There are two types of Myotonic Dystrophy

1. Type 1

There is a mutation in the DMPK gene which affects the communication in the cells and plays an important role in the various functions of the heart, skeletal muscle and in various movements. It causes weakening of muscle tone, disability and sometimes delays in development.

2. Type 2

In this, there are changes in the CNBP gene, this protein is found in the heart and in skeletal muscles. It helps to control the genes of the body. It causes structural change which further creates unstable pieces and there is a problem with proteins which causes an imbalance in the normal functioning of the body. It includes the muscles of the lower legs, neck and face. It also causes gallstones, constipation and swallowing difficulty.

CAUSES

• It is caused due to alteration in protein genes which is caused by a further change in or alteration in the nucleic acid binding protein.
• This gene is also known as the ZNF9 gene.
• When these changes occur this is known as a repeat expansion, which means there is a repeated segment of DNA many times.
• These genes produce abnormal segments with usually long RNA, which causes clumps which are formed inside cells.
• Type 1 is caused by the DMPK Gene and Type 2 is caused by the mutation of the CNBP gene.

SYMPTOMS

Myotonic dystrophy is a weakness of the voluntary muscles which has the inability of muscles to relax. When this disease progresses this causes abnormal rhythm and muscles get weakened.

1. In type 1 myotonic dystrophy the gastrointestinal part is affected

• Swallowing difficult
• Constipation
• Complications in pregnancy
• Changes in size and functions of the uterus
• Cataract
• Gallstones

2. Type 2 causes

• Muscle contractions
• Temporary lockjaw
• Diabetes
• Certain defects in the heartbeat
• Weight loss
• Early baldness
• Poor vision

DIAGNOSIS

• Electromyography (EMG)
• Genetic Test
• MRI (Magnetic resonance testing)
• Liver function test
• CK (Creatinine kinase) Test
• Muscle biopsy

TREATMENT

Certain medications

Therapies such as

• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Hormonal therapies

Surgery of cataract

Regular monitoring of the health of the patient.

AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT

For healthy well being the tridoshas should be in a balanced state. This is due to Mamsashosha which is mainly due to the imbalance of Vata and Sapta dhatus. Sapta dhatus contains rasa, rakta, mamsa, Medha, asthi, majja and Shukra which helps to build up the body, each of the sapta dhatus has digestive fire. When there is vitiation of digestive fire it leads to improper absorption of the nutrients which are present in the body and results in various forms of weakness. When there is an increase in agni it further leads to the destruction of mamsa dhatu and causes the destruction.

VATA VRIDDHI AND VATA KSHAYA

Tridoshas and Trigunas are related to each other as they are responsible for personality composition at physiological and psychological levels. The increase and decrease in biological humor are important in the pathogenesis of the disease. Vata dosha is derived when air and ether interact together.

VATA VRIDDHI

By taking Bitter, astringent and pungent tastes Vata doshas get increased.

VATA KSHAYA

By taking salty, sour and sweet tastes the Vata doshas decrease.

TREATMENT

• In this acharyas clearly explained the dhatupaka avastha which is helpful in the formation of the other dhatus. To correct the Agni one must have deepana and pachana dravyas to strengthen the process. It can be well maintained by panchkarma process.
• In panchkarma there is a bio-purificatory method such as Vamanam Virechna and Anuvasna-Niruha Vasti (it helps to expel the toxins), Nasya.
• Rasayan therapy can also be adopted.
• In Vata rogas Abhyanga, Svedana and Snehana help to pacify the Vata doshas.
• Sweden helps to increase metabolic activity and helps to turn the flow of oxygen which helps to dilate the arterioles and provides thermoregulation to the nerves and helps in changing the sodium ion concentration.

HERBS USEFUL FOR MYOTONIC DYSTROPHY

GOKSHURA

Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris) is an ancient herb that helps to improve urogenital disease and acts as an aphrodisiac. It helps to improve bodybuilding which improves the strength of the muscles. Cleanses the urinary system and acts as a diuretic, has lithotriptic activity. Balances the tridoshas of the body and has Sheetal veerya. It cleanses and detoxifies the bladder.

ASHWAGANDHA

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a powerful ayurvedic herb which is helpful in many diseases such as anxiety and leucoderma. It helps to improve body functions and growth of the body. Ashwagandha helps to improve and promote cardiac health and relieves stress and depression. Helps to boost immunity and is rich in antioxidants.

SHATAVARI

Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) helps to improve fertility and calms the mind. Shatavri has a coolant property which is helpful in gastric problems. It is helpful in balancing the hormone and improving the mass of the muscle. Helpful in chronic respiratory disorders and has anti-ageing properties. Relieves diarrhea and helps in reducing swelling.

SAFED MUSLI

Safed Musli (Cholorphytum borivilianum) helps in improving erectile dysfunction and helps to improve the stamina of the body. Safed Musli helps to rejuvenate the tissue and helps in nourishing the body tissues. It helps to pacify the Vata and pitta doshas and is a very beneficial herb for joints, muscles and reproductive organs. Has the property of anti-arthritic which improves athletic performance.

HERBAL REMEDIES FOR MYOTONIC DYSTROPHY BY PLANET AYURVEDA

Planet Ayurveda is an eminent ISO 9001:2015 certified, GMP certified and US-FDA registered Ayurvedic company, which adheres to the objective of manufacturing quality ayurvedic products which are mentioned in a number of ancient texts of Ayurveda. Formulations which are manufactured here are without any additives and preservatives without any kind of chemicals and artificial flavoring agents which causes a large number of side effects in a person. The products manufactured here are from any kind of adulteration and are purely vegetarian and gluten-free. Planet ayurveda provides herbal remedies for myotonic dystroph which are made up of pure herbs without causing any side effects.

PRODUCTS LIST

1. Tribulus Power
2. Ashwagandhadi Ghrit
3. Atirasadi Churna
4. Boswellia Curcumin
5. Gandhak Rasayan
6. Balaswagandhadi Tailam
7. Dhanwanthram Oil

PRODUCTS DESCRIPTION

1. Tribulus Power

Tribulus Power is a single herbal capsule formulated by planet Ayurveda using ingredients such as Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris). This capsule is helpful in premature ejaculation which helps to build up stamina. Improves the self-esteem and self-confidence in men. Rich in antioxidants which have strength-giving properties. Improves the health and functioning of sexual organs.

Dosage- 1 capsule twice daily with plain water after meals.

2. Ashwagandhadi Ghrit

Ashwagandhadi Ghrit is a classical ayurvedic product which is formulated by planet ayurveda using Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Bhibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica), Go Ghrit (Cow’s Ghee), Cow Milk and water. It is used in the treatment of weight loss and infertility. Has anti-ageing properties and improves conception in males and females. Helps in balancing the tridoshas of the body, provides strength and immunity.

Dosage- 1 teaspoon twice daily

3. Atirasadi Churna

Atirasadi Churna is a polyherbal churna formulation which is made by planet ayurveda using ingredients such as Safed musli (Chlorophytum borivilianum), Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris), Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), Varahi Kand (Dioscorea tuberosa) and many more. It is an excellent remedy for premature ejaculation which is helpful in maintaining a healthy reproductive system and helps to enhance the Shukra dhatu. It helps to relieve stress and anxiety and is rich in antioxidants which help to regulate hormones.

Dosage- 1 teaspoon twice daily with plain water after meals.

4. Boswellia Curcumin

Boswellia Curcumin is a polyherbal capsule which is made by planet ayurveda using ingredients such as Shallaki (Boswellia serrata) and Curcumin (Curcuma longa). This capsule has anti-inflammatory properties and is used in the inflammation of joints. Helps to reduce oedema and helps to kill cancer cells. Curcumin is rich in antioxidants and has neuroprotective properties.

Dosage- 1 capsule twice daily after meals with plain water

5. Gandhak Rasayan

Gandhak Rasayan is a herbal tablet formulation made by planet ayurveda using a single extract of Shuddha Gandhak (Purified sulfur). This tablet is helpful in many skin diseases and helps to nourish the body inside out to remove toxins. It is known for its antibiotic property, which helps to enhance strength and provides stamina and nourishment.

Dosage- 2 tablets twice daily with lukewarm water.

6. Bala Ashwagandha Tailam

Bala Ashwagandha Tailam is a classical ayurvedic product which is made by planet ayurveda using various ingredients such as Bala (Sida cordifolia), Rasna (Pluchea lanceolata), Sariva (Hemidesmus indicus), Agaru (Aquilaria agallocha) and many more. It is helpful in regenerating the nerves so helps in relieving the burning sensation. Helps in strengthening the bones and ligaments.

Method of Application- Mix and heat the oil and apply it over the affected region.

7. Dhanwantharam Thailam

Dhanwantharam Thailam is classical ayurvedic oil which is made by planet ayurveda using ingredients such as Bilva (Aegle marmelos), Brihati (Solanum indicum), Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris), Prishnaparni (Uraria picta) and many more. It is helpful in the treatment of neurological disorders and in intercostal neuropathy. Helpful in neuromuscular conditions, in post-viral fever.

Method of Application- Mix and heat the oil and apply it over the affected region.

CONCLUSION

Myotonic dystrophy is progressive muscle wasting and weakness of the muscles. It is a type of muscular dystrophy where there is a progressive weakness in the breakdown of skeletal muscles. There is a mutation of DMPK (Myotonic dystrophy protein kinase) which causes a modification of the gene. This protein affects the cell’s communication and is generally of two types- The mild form (which is mid to late adulthood) and the Congenital form (which begins at birth). This is due to Mamsashosha which is mainly due to the imbalance of Vata and Sapta dhatus. In this article, we discussed the herbal remedies formulated by planet ayurveda which are helpful in this disease without causing any side effects.