The dissertation titled “Effect of Kushmanda Arka in Renal Calculi” by Dr. Jijin J P, under the guidance of Dr. K. Gangadharan at Government Ayurveda College, Kannur, explores the therapeutic efficacy of Kushmanda Arka in managing renal calculi (kidney stones), a prevalent and recurrent urological condition.

Renal calculi, often presenting with symptoms like pain, burning micturition, and hematuria, correspond to Ashmari in Ayurvedic literature. While modern management includes invasive procedures, Ayurveda offers conservative remedies that are cost-effective and less disruptive. Kushmanda Arka, derived from Benincasa hispida, along with Hingu (Ferula foetida) and Yavakshara (alkali preparation from barley), is referenced in Arkaprakasa for its potential efficacy in Ashmari due to its diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and litholytic properties.

This interventional pre-post clinical study involves 28 participants aged 20–60 years with renal calculi less than 10 mm, selected from OPD/IPD of the Shalyatantra Department. Participants receive 15 ml of Kushmanda Arka mixed with 30 ml warm water, 1.5 g Hingu, and 400 mg Yavakshara, twice daily for 30 days. Symptom assessment occurs on days 0, 10, and 20, while USG evaluation of stone size is done on days 0 and 31. A follow-up is scheduled on day 61.

The study aims to evaluate both symptom relief and reduction in stone size using validated assessment tools. Data will be analyzed using SPSS software with appropriate statistical tests (t-test, Wilcoxon, chi-square).

This research proposes a safe, effective, and accessible Ayurvedic alternative for managing renal stones, especially for early or recurrent cases, offering promising outcomes in non-invasive care. The study is ethically approved, self-funded, and follows proper clinical protocol.