Integrative Ayurvedic Supportive Therapy in Recurrent Pulmonary Tuberculosis with Hemoptysis During Anti-Tubercular Treatment: A Case Report

Abstract

Background: Pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) remains a major infectious disease burden worldwide. Although anti-tubercular therapy (ATT) effectively treats the infection, many patients experience persistent respiratory symptoms such as cough, hemoptysis, weight loss, and dyspnoea. Ayurveda describes similar clinical presentations under Kasa, Shwasa, and Rajayakshma, involving vitiation of Vata-Kapha Dosha and dysfunction of Pranavaha Srotas. Supportive Ayurvedic therapy may improve symptom control and overall health status.

Objective: To evaluate the effect of Ayurvedic adjuvant therapy in improving symptoms of recurrent pulmonary tuberculosis during conventional treatment.

Case Presentation: A 70-year-old female with a past history of pulmonary tuberculosis treated in 2022 presented in June 2025 with cough and intermittent fever. Sputum examination confirmed recurrent pulmonary tuberculosis and ATT was restarted. The patient subsequently developed hemoptysis, loss of appetite, weight loss, and dyspnoea. Ayurvedic supportive therapy consisting of Sitopaladi Churna with Shwaskuthar Rasa, Kanakasava, Dashmularishta, Agastya Haritaki Avaleha, and Vasakavaleha was administered along with ATT. Follow-up evaluation was performed every 15 days.

Results: Gradual clinical improvement was observed. Hemoptysis subsided completely, cough frequency decreased, dyspnoea improved, appetite increased, and weight gain was noted. No adverse drug reactions were observed.

Conclusion: Ayurvedic supportive therapy may provide beneficial symptomatic relief in patients undergoing treatment for pulmonary tuberculosis. Integrative management could improve patient comfort and quality of life. Larger clinical studies are required to validate these findings.