Clinical Trial Evaluation of Basti Therapy as an Ayurvedic Intervention for Neurodegenerative Disorders with Emphasis on Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s Disease: A Critical Review of Mechanisms, Challenges, and Future Prospects

Abstract

Neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s disease (PD) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) represent some of the most pressing health concerns of the 21st century. These conditions are characterized by progressive neuronal dysfunction and degeneration, leading to severe impairments in cognition, motor functions, and overall quality of life. Conventional treatments largely provide symptomatic relief without addressing the underlying pathology or halting disease progression. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, proposes several therapeutic strategies, among which Basti therapy (medicated enema) is considered a cornerstone in the management of Vata disorders. Since neurodegenerative conditions are deeply associated with aggravated Vata dosha, Basti therapy offers a promising holistic intervention. This paper provides a structured review of clinical trial perspectives on Basti therapy in neurodegenerative disorders, its theoretical foundations, literature support, mechanistic insights, challenges in clinical translation, and scope for future research.

KEYWORDS: Basti therapy, Ayurveda, neurodegeneration, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, Vata dosha, Panchakarma, integrative medicine