Indian Journal of Ancient Medicine and Yoga

Epigenetics investigates how reversible molecular mechanisms DNA methylation, histone modification, and microRNA regulation regulate gene expression without modifying the DNA sequence. Over the past decade, yoga and meditation, traditional Indian practices designed to synchronise body, breath, and awareness, have surfaced as effective behavioural regulators of these processes. This systematic review (2010–2025) consolidates forty-four peer-reviewed human studies to investigate the effects of yoga and meditation on epigenetic regulation concerning stress, inflammation, and ageing.

Results indicate substantial decreases in DNA methylation of FKBP5 and NR3C1, diminished histone deacetylase (HDAC) activity, elevated histone acetylation associated with neuroplasticity, and modified microRNA profiles regulating immunological and stress responses. Multi-omics investigations indicate increased telomerase activity and activation of longevity-related genes, including SIRT1 and TERT, implying yoga’s contribution to biological rejuvenation.

Physiologically, these molecular alterations correspond to decreased cortisol levels, equilibrated autonomic function, and enhanced immunological efficacy. Philosophically, they reflect samatvam the yogic principle of equilibrium between mind and body. Despite design diversity and restricted sample numbers, consistent evidence suggests that yoga and meditation function as behavioural epigenetic regulators, converting mental awareness into genomic stability.

The amalgamation of ancient yogic principles with contemporary molecular biology has the potential to transform preventative care via affordable, nonpharmacological methods for fostering resilience and comprehensive well-being.

This article explores the Bhagavad Gita (BG)’s integrative vision of Yoga Sadhana (YS) as a spiritually grounded path of ethical action, inner transformation, and contemplative insight. While contemporary global yoga discourse often emphasizes physical well-being, the BG advances a multidimensional synthesis of karma, jnana, bhakti, and dhyāna yoga, supported by foundational principles such as svadharma, samatva, and anasakti. Employing a hermeneutical-philosophical method, this study engages classical commentaries and modern interpretations to reframe the BG’s teachings in light of contemporary existential, ethical, and psychological concerns. The findings suggest that the BG offers a dynamic, nonsectarian model of spiritual practice that supports psychological resilience, ethical discernment, and interreligious dialogue. Rather than proposing withdrawal from the world, the BG invites sustained engagement through disciplined selfknowledge and selfless action. This reimagining of YS reveals the BG’s continuing relevance as a resource for individual and collective spiritual flourishing in the contemporary world.

A female patient aged 39 years came to Homoeopathic Outpatient department of the college complaining of great exhaustion, continual weight gain, and ongoing muscle weakness and discomfort. The patient had been receiving allopathic treatment for a year and had never received any alternative medication. After homoeopathic treatment was prescribed, the symptoms significantly improved on both a physical and mental level. The regular follow-ups were taken, and investigations like Thyroid stimulating Hormone (TSH) was repeated twice for understanding case prognosis. Homoeopathic remedy Ignatia Amara 200 C potency was administered based on the totality of symptoms as constitutional totality and it proved effective in relieving the complaints of the patient. Homoeopathy is effective in when remedy is prescribed on basis of individualization and also constitutional approach proved to be beneficial in this case of hypothyroidism.

Vitiligo (Shwitra) is a long-lasting depigmentary disorder described in Ayurveda as a Tridoshaja ailment with predominant vitiation of Vata and Kapha, impairment of Bhrajaka pitta and participation of Rakta dhatu. Ayurvedic management aims to purify the blood, enhance digestive fire and arouse melanogenesis.

Case Report: A patient presented with hypopigmented patches that began as a minor lesion and progressively spread. The patient reported regular fish intake prior to onset. Previous allopathic supervision had yielded no improvement.

Intervention: The treatment protocol included Arogyavardhani vati, Haridra Khanda, khadirarishta, Rasa manikya, Shwitrari rasa and Bakuchi churna (internal administration) along with Bakuchi taila for topical application. Follow ups were conducted on Day 14, Day 28, Day 42, and Day 56.

Results: Within the first 14 days, lesion spread ceased and marginalrepigmentation began. By Day 28, central repigmentation was evident, and by Day 42 there was marked reduction in lesion size. Complete restoration of normal skin color was achieved by day 56 without adverse effects.

Conclusion: This case highpoints the prospective of classical ayurvedic formulations, particularly the synergistic use of Raktshodhaka, kushthaghna, varnya drugs, in attaining complete repigmentation in chronic vitiligo unresponsive to conventional therapy.

The Skanda Mahapurana (SMP) is one of the most comprehensive expositions of yogic philosophy in the Puranic literature. The purpose of this review is to detail the text’s philosophy of devotion and practical application, using its two presentations of Astanga and Sadanga Yoga, their philosophical, devotional and pragmatic dimensions within the text. The research presents an account to unpack the notion of Yoga under the SMP and compares it with Patanjala Yoga Sutras (PYS), listing all the similarities and differences in structural and spiritual orientation. The findings are that the SMP Astanga Yoga is deeply related to the classical system, focusing on moral control, concentration and meditation on Lord Visnu. At the same time, Sadanga Yoga is an ascetic, devotional path of life and is closer to Hatha Yoga and the ascetic path of Lord Siva; thus, it was also closely related to the Hatha teachings. The fusion of the two systems demonstrates the Puranic vision of the unification of philosophical meditation with ethical behaviour and devotional practice in an integrated path towards moksa (liberation).