A Randomised Open Labelled Comparative Clinical Study to Evaluate Effect of Hamsapadi (Adiantum lunulatum Burm) and Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris Linn) in Pittaja Mutrakruchra with Special Reference to UTI

Abstract

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common, particularly among females, and can be correlated with Pittaja Mutrakruchra in Ayurveda, which presents with symptoms such as Peeta mutrata, Sadaha mutrata, Saruja mutrata, and Sarakta mutrata. Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris Linn.) is a well-documented herb with Mutrala properties and is widely used in urinary disorders. Hamsapadi (Adiantum lunulatum Burm.) is described in classical texts as Pittashamaka and Raktaprasadaka, suggesting its therapeutic potential in similar conditions, though it lacks sufficient clinical evaluation. Hence, the present study aimed to comparatively evaluate the efficacy of Gokshura and Hamsapadi in the management of Pittaja Mutrakruchra. A randomized clinical trial was conducted on 40 subjects presenting with lakshanas of Pittaja Mutrakruchra. The subjects were randomly allocated into two groups: Group A (n = 20) received Gokshura moola churna and Group B (n = 20) received Hamsapadi panchanga churna for a period of 15 days. Subjective and objective parameters were assessed before and after treatment and statistically analyzed. Both groups showed statistically significant improvement in subjective and objective parameters; however, Group A demonstrated comparatively better therapeutic outcomes. Phytochemical analysis of both trial drugs revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, carbohydrates, and other plant metabolites. It can be concluded that both Gokshura moola churna and Hamsapadi panchanga churna are effective in the management of Pittaja Mutrakruchra, with Gokshura showing superior efficacy.

Introduction

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are among the most common infections worldwide, affecting millions annually—particularly women. Although antibiotics are the primary treatment, increasing antibiotic resistance, recurrence rates, side effects, and cost highlight the need for alternative therapies.

In Ayurveda, UTI symptoms closely resemble Pittaja Mutrakruchra, a condition characterized by painful and burning urination, frequent micturition, and urinary discomfort due to vitiation of Mutravaha Srotas. Two Ayurvedic herbs—Hamsapadi (Adiantum lunulatum Burm.) and Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris Linn.)—are traditionally used for urinary disorders due to their diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and Pitta-pacifying properties. While Gokshura is well established in classical texts and modern research, Hamsapadi is less explored and requires clinical evaluation.

The study aimed to compare the clinical efficacy of Hamsapadi churna and Gokshura churna in managing Pittaja Mutrakruchra (UTI). A randomized, open-label comparative clinical trial was conducted on 40 patients divided into two groups:

• Group A: Gokshura churna (6 g twice daily)

• Group B: Hamsapadi churna (6 g twice daily)
  Treatment duration was 15 days.

The research included analytical evaluation (pharmacognostic, physicochemical, phytochemical, and TLC analysis) and clinical assessment based on subjective symptoms (pain, burning, frequency, fever, urine color) and objective parameters (albumin, pus cells, epithelial cells). Both drugs were authenticated, standardized, and analyzed as per Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia guidelines.

Preliminary findings indicate that both herbs possess significant phytochemical constituents supporting their traditional use. All 40 patients completed the trial, and the study suggests that both Hamsapadi and Gokshura may be effective in managing UTI symptoms, with comparative evaluation forming the basis for assessing their relative therapeutic benefits.

Overall, the study explores Ayurvedic herbal alternatives as safer and potentially effective options for UTI management, addressing concerns related to antibiotic resistance and recurrence.

Conclusion

Analytical studies of Gokshura and hamsapadi confirmed their genuinity and quality as per API standards. Both trial drugs exhibited significant reduction of clinical symptoms of UTI like burning micturition, pain, urine frequency and urine abnormalities without any adverse effects. Both drugs are safe and effective in the management of Pittaja Mutrakruchra, with Gokshura showing better overall therapeutic outcomes.

References

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Copyright

Copyright © 2026 Dr. Akshay Vitkare, Dr. Rajashekhar Ganiger, Dr. Dharani, Dr. Shivananda B. Karigar. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.