Hospital Section

The Hospital Wing was shifted to a new multi-storeyed building in 2017, now a NABH-accredited facility offering comprehensive Ayurvedic healthcare, research, and training.

Clinical Services

Multispecialty OPDs function in the areas of:

  • Kaya Chikitsa (General Medicine)
  • Panchakarma (Bio-purificatory Therapies)
  • Shalyatantra (Surgery & Orthopedics)
  • Shalakya Tantra (Ophthalmology & ENT)
  • Prasuti Tantra & Stri Roga (Gynaecology & Obstetrics)
  • Manoroga Chikitsa (Psychiatry)
  • Marma Chikitsa and Geriatric OPD

Medicines are provided free of cost through the OPD Pharmacy. Diagnostic support includes pathology, biochemistry, X-ray, and ECG services.

Outpatient Department (OPD)

The out- patient department (OPD) of the institute caters to the medical needs of people from various parts of the country especially from the states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. A total of 28,15,396 patients have been treated since inception until September-2025. Other than general OPD, the institute is running a geriatric speciality OPD and Marma Chikitsa OPD also. The infra structure under OPD includes screening areas, patient waiting area, reception and registration area, Initial assessment room, OPD consultation rooms, OPD pharmacy, Child care room and children play area . The auxiliary services like pathology and biochemistry investigations, minor OT, ECG and X-ray are also available in the OPD. 

The services of consultants specialized in Kaya Chikitsa (General medicine), Panchakarma (Bio purificatory measures), Salyatantra (Surgery & Orthopedics), Shalakya tantra (Ophthalmology & ENT), Prasutitantra & Streeroga (Gync.& Obst.), and Kaumar bhritya (Pediatrics) are presently available in the OPD. OPD pharmacy have an ample stock of various classes of medicines which are distributed free of cost. The screening and follow up of patients recruited in various IMR/Collaborative projects of the council is also done at the OPD level. The institute has implemented AYUSH Hospital Management Information System (AHMIS) for registration and consultation.

Other than regular OPD services, various awareness classes are also conducted at OPD premises time to time. Some of them include classes on different themes of nutrition as a part of Poshan Maah celebrations, classes on various themes like cancer prevention, World Health Day, blindness prevention, blood donation etc.

The students in various courses conducted by the institute like Certificate Course in Panchakarma Therapy, Panchakarma Technician Course and house surgeons from various Ayurveda colleges across Kerala are also posted in the OPD under consultants as a part of their training program.

Inpatient Department (IPD)

The IPD, established in 1972-73, presently operates from the seven-storeyed hospital complex with a 60-bed capacity, including general wards, pay wards, and suite rooms. 24×7 medical, nursing, dietary, and security services are available.

Over the years, IPD care has benefited more than 20,000 patients, covering a wide spectrum of ailments — musculoskeletal, neurological, autoimmune, respiratory, dermatological, reproductive, and metabolic disorders. Care extends across preventive, curative, rehabilitative, and rejuvenative domains. Committees oversee dietetics, infection control, and laundry services to maintain quality standards.

Panchakarma & Anusastra Department

 There are 13 Panchakarma theatres wherein the treatments are carried out on shift basis for all IPD inmates. The procedures are performed by well-trained Panchakarma therapists. Procedures such as Udwartana (coarse powder massage), Abhyanga (oil massage), Snehapana (oral administration of medicated snehas such as ghee/oil), Swedana (sudation), Vamana (therapeutic emesis), Virechana (therapeutic purgation), Basti (medicated enema), Nasya (medication through nasal route), Raktamoksha (blood-letting), Shirodhara (therapeutic oil streaming overhead), Shirovasti (therapeutic retention of oil over head region), Dhoomapana (inhalation of smoke), Netra kriya kalpas (treatment for eye diseases),   different types of bandages etc are carried under expert monitoring and surveillance for IPD inmates. During 2024-25 a total of 28763 procedures were carried out in Panchakarma department. 12806 procedures were performed in Panchakarma department this year till September 2025. 

Institute has a well-equipped Anusastra department (MOT) in which various Para surgical procedures such as Siravyadana (therapeutic phlebotomy), Agnikarma (therapeutic cauterization), Jalaukavacharana (leech application), Pracchanna (type of bloodletting done through small incisions) and Cupping are performed. Marma related treatments and bandages are also performed at the Anusastra section. The institute has also a well-equipped Ksharasutra OT in which procedures such as Kshara sutra and Kshara karma are performed. Other Minor surgical procedures such as Corn excision, Cyst excision, Fissurectomy, Sphincterotomy and Cauterization are also done in Kshara sutra OT.

 

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Medicinal Plant Garden – NARIP, Cheruthuruthy

The campus of the National Ayurveda Research Institute for Panchakarma (NARIP), Cheruthuruthy, is enriched with a wide variety of medicinal plants and trees of therapeutic importance.

The campus houses 232 trees belonging to 62 different medicinal species, all of which have been scientifically identified and documented. In addition, 102 medicinal plants representing 44 species are cultivated in pots and displayed across the campus. Each plant is accompanied by a name board presenting its scientific name, family, and regional (Malayalam) name, along with its main therapeutic indications. To further promote awareness and foster a cultural connection with nature, 27 Nakshatra Vrikshas (trees associated with the lunar constellations) are also displayed within the campus, linking traditional beliefs with botanical and Ayurvedic knowledge.

This initiative aims to create awareness among students, visitors, and the public about the identification and medicinal value of common herbal plants.

Department of Biochemistry and Pathology, NARIP, Cheruthuruthy

Biochemistry and Pathology Department provides scientific and technical support to the institute for achieving its goal. This department is a central dogma of the institute as it has a network with all other departments of the institute.

A.  Major Activities

1.         Carrying out of Biochemical and Hematological Investigations of OPD and IPD.

2.         Getting Research Grants and execution of Research Projects (IMR/EMR/RFD).

3.         Associating with Clinical Research Projects (IMR/RFD).

4.         Associating with Pre- Clinical (Experimental Animals) studies with Pharmacology.

5.         Associating research studies with Pharmacy and Chemistry Departments.

6.         Taking up of pilot scale research studies in institute level.

7.         Research on Medicinal plants for their Phyto chemical, Physico chemical and Bio Potency.

8.         Associating with Medical camps / Field visits of the institute.

9.         Department is engaged in academic activities such as giving classes for CCPT, CCMC, PTC students, Hands on training and Dissertation /project work for Post Graduate Science students.

10.       Project work / Summer Training programs for Basic / Life Science students of various Universities.

OPD/IPD Investigations Details

 2022- 2023: 33,917 Biochemical Investigations & 25,380 Pathology investigations

                        Resource generated: Rs. 4, 67,628/–

2023 – 2024: 41,322 Biochemical Investigations & 24,314 Pathology investigations

Resource generated: Rs. 5, 60,033/–

2024 – 2025: 40,600 Biochemical Investigations & 23,183 Pathology investigations

Resource generated: Rs.5, 06,408/–

Note: Fee concessions for Research cases/BPL/Senior citizens as per norms

B. Accreditations /Certifications

            Department of Biochemistry and Pathology got NABL Accreditation ISO 15189:2022 “Medical Laboratories – Requirements for Quality and Competence” in the field of ‘Medical Testing’.

Issue Date: 21.09.2024

Valid Until: 20.09.2026

Certificate number: MC – 6853

          Scope: 23 Biochemical parameters

C. Recently Completed Projects

  1. Evaluation of Hypolipidemic activity of Cardiospermum halicacabum Linn Leaf in Experimental Animals.
  2. Study on Biochemical Markers for Neuro- protective Role of Sarasvata Ghrita in Aluminum Chloride Induced Rat Model of Alzheimer’s Disease.
  3. Evaluation of Anti –depressant/ Anxiolytic / Nootropic effect of Panchagavya ghrita in experimentally induced stress in Rats.

D. Ongoing Project

  1. Biochemical Effect of Trikatu Churna in Methimazole induced Experimental Hypothyroidism in Wistar Rats.

E.  Existing Facilities

1.         Fully Automated Biochemistry analyzer XL 640

2.         Electrolyte Analyzer EL 120

3.         5 Part Hematology Analyzer H560

4.         Microscope

5.         UV spectrophotometer

6.         Semi-Automated Urine Strip Analyzer

7.         Elisa reader and washer- Lisa scan

8.         Refrigerated centrifuge 5804 R Eppendorf

Recent Publications:

  1. Thamizh Selvam N, Sudhakar D. Sarasvata Ghrita – An Ayurvedic Brain Tonic. The Antiseptic.2023; 120:38-39. ISSN: 0003-5998.
  • Dr. Thamizh Selvam N, Reshma Anns Raju, Dr. Sanjayakumar YR, Dr. Srikanth ala,     Dr. Sudesh N Gaidhani. Effect of Sarasvata Ghrita   – A classical Ayurvedic medicine on Neurochemical markers in Brain tissue of Alzheimer’s disease induced rat. Compendium Focal theme and memorial lectures and abstracts selected papers. Publisher- Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment. Prof. K.P. Sudheer. Ed. In Chief. 2023, Page 236. ISBN :978-81-953863-7-6.
  • Thamizh Selvam N, Sudhakar D. Ayurvedic Pharmaceutics: An Overview. The Antiseptic. 2023; 120(5):29-31. ISSN: 0003-5998.
  • Thamizh Selvam.N, Sudhakar. D. Role of Millets in Mental Health. Global Journal for Research Analysis. 2023;12 (7):178-179. ISSN:2277-8160. Doi.10.36106/gjra.
  • Thamizh Selvam.N. Epigenetics in Human Health and Disease. The Antiseptic.2023; 120(9):19-22. ISSN: 0003-5998.
  • Thamizh Selvam N, Reshma Anns Raju, Sanjaya Kumar YR, Srikanth Ala, Sudesh N Gaidhani. Influence of Sarasvata Ghrita (Classical Ayurvedic medicine) on Brain Derived Neurotropic Factor (BDNF) and Achetyl Choline esterase (AchE) level in Alzheimer’s Disease induced Rat. Abstracts- International Conference on Current Trends in Biological Sciences. March 2024. International Conference on Current Trends in Biological Sciences. March 2024.Mizoram.
  • Thamizh Selvam N, Srikanth Ala, Sudesh N Gaidhani and Sanjaya Kumar YR. Neuroprotective and Antioxidant potential of Panchagavya ghrita (A classical Ayurvedic medicine) in Chronic Mild Stress (CMS) induced Wistar rats.  Compendium Focal theme and memorial lectures and abstracts selected papers. Publisher- Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment. Prof. K.P. Sudheer. Ed. In Chief. 2025, Page 373.ISBN:978-81-965874-2-0
  • Dr. Thamizh Selvam N. Book Chapter – Deep Learning in Disease Prediction: An Overview. Research in Life Science. Editors: Rose A.L., Yadav D.K.,Subbulakshmi P, Raosaheb H.S.IOT Academy Publishers.ISBN No. 978-93-48990-01-3February 2025. pp134-139.
  • Dr. Thamizh Selvam N. Integrative approach of clinical nutrition and AYUSH System for sustainable public healthcare in India – Need of the hour. Book Chapter – Souvenir Abstract. Integrating Ayurvedic and Naturopathic nutrition principles in clinical practices. Editors: Dr.M. Pushpa Devi, Ms. N. Harinee, Mrs. Dharma Muthu Meenakshi. MR March 2025ISBN No.978-81-973424-1-7.
  1. Dr. Thamizh Selvam N. Integrative approach of clinical nutrition and AYUSH system for sustainable public health in India: An overview. Health 2025; 103(05):12-17. ISSN 0017-8861.

Recent Conference Presentations:

  1. Effect of Sarasvata Ghrita   in Brain tissue of Alzheimer’s disease induced rat was presented at 35th Kerala Science Congress organized by Mar Baselios College of Engineering and Technology, Kuttikkanam, Idukki, Kerala. Organized by Kerala State Congress (KSC) Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment  (KSCSTE) ,KFRI, Peechi, Thrissur and Mar Baselios College of Engineering and Technology,Idukki, Kerala.2023
  • Neuroprotective effect of Sarasvata Ghrita in Aluminium chloride induced Alzheimers disease rat models was presented at International Conference on Recent innovations in Health & Biological Sciences (ICRIHBS 2023) Organized by PSG College of Arts & Science, Coimbatore, PSG Center for Academic Research & Excellence (PSG CARE) & Indian Immunological Limited, Hyderabad.2023.
  • Advancements of 3R’s in Biomedical Research, Laboratory Animal Science and welfare : International Perspectives was presented at 11th International Conference of the Laboratory Animal Scientists Association (LASA) India organized by Laboratory Animal Scientists Association (LASA).JN Tata auditorium, National Science Seminar Complex, Indian Institute of Science (I I Sc), Bengaluru, India.2023.
  • Traditional medicine system an Indian Perspective was presented at International Conference on Exploring the potential of Ayurveda in promoting the well-being of Human being, Animals Environment, Plants and Animals organized by JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru and South Kazakhstan Medical Academy, Kazakhstan.JSS College of Pharmacy, Ooty. 2023.
  • Presented a paper titled ‘Current National Health Policy and Potential of AYUSH system in Public health care in India’ at International Conference on Integration of Innovation, Research, and Pharmaceutical education. Organized by K.T.N College of Pharmacy, Chalavara, Palakkad Dt. & APSE. 2023.
  • Presented a paper titled ‘Anxiolytic and Nootropic effect of Panchagavya ghrita in Chronic Mild Stress induced animal model.’ at International Conference on Integration of Innovation, Research, and Pharmaceutical education. Organized by K.T.N College of Pharmacy, Chalavara, Palakkad Dt. & APSE. 2023.
  • Presented a paper titled ‘Herbal Drugs in Modern world-Issues and Challenges’ at International Conference on “Translational Research in Academic organizations: from Bench to bedside”. Organized by Prime College of Pharmacy, Palakkad   in association with Indian Pharmacy Graduates Association. (Kerala State Branch) 2024.
  • Presented a paper titled ‘Influence of Sarasvata Ghrita (Classical Ayurvedic medicine) on Brain Derived Neurotropic Factor (BDNF) and Achetyl Choline esterase (AchE) level in Alzhiemers Disease induced Rat’ at International Conference on Current Trends in Biological Sciences. organised by School of Life Sciences, Mizoram University and Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Govt. of India 2024.
  • Presented a paper titled ‘Research perspective in Traditional medicine systems: Recent development; at Faculty Development Programme on Empowering pharma educators: Exploring technological advances cutting –Edge Research and Entrepreneurial ventures. organized Prime College of Pharmacy, Palakkad 2024.
  1. Presented a paper titled ‘Nano-based drug delivery system for natural products – Recent advances and issues: Overview Nanoparticles’ at International Conference “Smart NextGen Nanomaterials for Sustainable Development of Energy and Environment – An Interdisciplinary Approach (ICSSE-2024.organised by Department of Physics, Dr.N.G.P. Arts and Science College, Coimbatore in association with Asian Research Association, Tamil Nadu, India. 2024.
  1. Presented a paper titled ‘Effect of Panchagavya ghrita (A classical Ayurvedic Medicine) on Neurochemical biomarkers in Brain tissue of Stress induced Rats’ at  12th International Conference of Laboratory Animal Scientists’ Association (LASA), India, on “Harmonization of Management of Animal Facilities and Improving Quality of Research Animal Production” organised by ACTREC, Tata Memorial Centre, Navi Mumbai. Venue: CIDCO Exhibition and Convention Centre, Vashi, Navi Mumbai.2024
  1. ‘Changes in Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) level in Stress induced rats and Neuroprotective mechanism of Panchagavya ghrita’ was presented at National Conference on “Innovations and Emerging trends in Natural Therapeutics, Molecular Biological and Structural Analysis of Biomolecules” organized by PSG College of Arts & Science, Dept. of Biochemistry, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu.2024
  1. ‘Neuroprotective and antioxidant potential of Panchagavya ghrita (a classical Ayurvedic medicine) in chronic mild stress (CMS) induced Wistar rats’ was presented at 37th Kerala Science Congress. Organized by Kerala State Council for Science and Technology and Environment (KSCSTE) at Kerala Agricultural University (KAU), Vellanikara, Thrissur, Kerala. 2025.
  1. ‘Recent trends in AYUSH system for sustainable public healthcare in India’ was presented at 3rd National Conference on Futuristic Trends in Biological Sciences for Sustainable Development. organized by Vivekananda Arts and Science College for Women, Sankagiri, Tamil Nadu.2025.
  1. Presented a paper titled ‘Role of Traditional medicine system in combating infectious disease’ at XVIII Louis Pasteur National Symposium on Alternative Medicine for Combating Infectious Diseases (AMCID). organized by Dr. N.G.P Arts and Science College, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu.2025.
  1. Presented a paper titled ‘Integrative approach of clinical nutrition and AYUSH System for sustainable public healthcare in India – Need of the hour’ at Integrating Ayurvedic and Naturopathic nutrition principles in clinical practices.Kongunadu Arts and Science College, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. 2025.
  1. Presented a paper titled ‘AYUSH medicine system for promising and sustainable health care: Global Scenario’ at 4th International virtual conference on Emerging trends in chemical environmental and energy research (ICCEER 2025) organized by St. Peters Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamil Nadu and ACE International Pte Ltd, Singapore.2025.

   NABL Certificate of Accreditation                        

Biochemistry Department

Biochemistry Department

Pathology Department

GMP Certified Pharmacy

            The Institute Pharmacy functions as a Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP)-certified production unit, dedicated to the preparation of high-quality Ayurvedic formulations. The pharmacy was established to ensure a consistent supply of authentic, safe, and effective Ayurvedic medicines for both clinical and research purposes.

Equipped with traditional and modern infrastructure, the pharmacy produces a diverse range of formulations, including Kwatha Choorna, Choorna, Taila, Ghritha, and other classical preparations. Each medicine is prepared strictly in accordance with classical Ayurvedic procedures and under rigorous quality control measures. Regular monitoring and adherence to GMP guidelines ensure that every formulation retains its therapeutic potency, purity, and standardization.

The pharmacy caters to the Outpatient (OPD) and Inpatient Department (IPD) of NARIP, ensuring an uninterrupted supply of essential medicines. It also plays a key role in supporting Intra-Mural Research (IMR) and collaborative projects, providing customized research-grade formulations.

The Institute Pharmacy exemplifies the seamless integration of traditional Ayurvedic wisdom and modern pharmaceutical quality assurance, standing as a model unit within the CCRAS network. Through its operations, it contributes significantly to the Institute’s mission of promoting evidence-based Ayurveda, ensuring accessibility to standardized formulations, and advancing scientific validation of traditional Ayurvedic medicines.

Department of Chemistry / Quality Control Laboratory

National Ayurveda Research Institute for Panchakarma (NARIP), Cheruthuruthy

(Under Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences, Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India)

About the Quality Control Laboratory

The Quality Control Laboratory (QC-Lab) at the National Ayurveda Research Institute for Panchakarma (NARIP), Cheruthuruthy, was established in 2010 with the aim of ensuring the quality, safety, and efficacy of Ayurvedic raw materials and formulations. Initially started under the guidance of one Assistant Director, the laboratory gradually expanded under various CCRAS research projects.

At present, the QC-Lab comprises a team of five regular staff members (including Research Officers and Research Assistants in Chemistry and Botany) and three contractual staff (Laboratory Technicians and a Lab Attendant), contributing to a wide range of analytical and research activities.

Infrastructure and Instrumentation

The laboratory is equipped with advanced analytical instruments for phytochemical, pharmacognostical, and quality evaluations, including:

  • FTIR Spectrophotometer
  • UV-Visible Spectrophotometer
  • High-Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC)
  • High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)
  • Trinocular and Stereo Microscopes
  • Rotary Vacuum Evaporators
  • Essential basic analytical instruments
  • Stability Chamber
  • Milli-Q water purification system
  • Tablet Hardness
  • Melting and boiling point apparatus
  • Refractometer

The QC-Lab serves as the authentication and quality evaluation unit for raw materials used in Ayurvedic formulations. Each sample undergoes botanical and chemical authentication as per Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API) standards before being transferred to the pharmacy for formulation, ensuring the delivery of standardized medicines to OPD and IPD patients.

Major Activities and Research Highlights

Since 2011, the QC-Lab has been actively engaged in:

  • Standardization of single drugs (various plant parts like root, leaf, stem, rhizome)
  • Evaluation of finished formulations (e.g., Churna preparations)
  • Physico-chemical analysis as per API standards (Loss on drying, Total Ash, Water/Alcohol soluble extractives, Acid-insoluble ash)
  • Chromatographic profiling (TLC/HPTLC) of single and compound formulations

Notable Projects and Outcomes

  • Standardization and analysis of Amalakyadi Churna, Balacaturbhadrika Churna, Rasna Saptakam, Jwarahara Churna (2011–2012).
  • Analysis of 176 samples of 53 single drugs and 48 samples of 14 formulations (2012–2013).
  • Standardization of Neem Oil and Nimbatiktam powder/capsule formulations.
  • Development and large-scale preparation of Nimbatiktam 200 mg Capsules (2013–2019), with 3,000 capsules supplied to CCRAS peripheral institutes and 6,000 capsules to the headquarters.
  • Between 2020–2025, analysed over 1,500 samples of 30 formulations and Ayurvedic/herbal drugs.

IMR and Collaborative Research Projects

The laboratory has successfully carried out and continues to support multiple In-House & IMR Projects, including:

  1. QC Analysis, Marker Estimation, and Shelf-life Studies of Ayush M3 and Ayush SS Granules.
  2. Quantitative Marker Analysis in Jwarahara Kwatha Choorna (JKC) for the treatment of fever.
  3. Development of SOP and Marker Estimation in Tryushnadi Guggulu – a classical polyherbal formulation.
  4. Development of Quality Control Protocols for Ayurvedic medicated oils – Murivenna, Durvadikera, Bhringamalakadi Kerataila.
  5. SOP Validation and Shelf-Life Studies of MML Taila.
  6. Evaluation of Brahmi Ghrita in in-vitro and in-vivo Alzheimer’s disease models.
  7. Pharmaceutical Development and Characterization of Karuthamarmani Gutika, Shirostodadi Gutika/Tablets.

The laboratory also focuses on the isolation of bioactive marker compounds such as Curcumin, Embelin, Asiaticoside, and Arjunolic Acid from Curcuma longa, Embelia ribes, Centella asiatica, and Terminalia arjuna, respectively. A Herbarium of authenticated specimens is maintained for reference and research.

Key Achievements

  • Development and Standardization of Nimbatiktam 200 mg Capsules
  • Submission of CTD Monograph on Piper longum to CCRAS
  • Standardization and quality evaluation of multiple Ayurvedic oils and single drugs
  • Isolation and characterization of marker compounds from medicinal plants under IMR Projects

Awards and Recognition

  • 🏆 Best Oral Presentation Award (2021)
    Paper: “Single Step Isolation and Technology Transfer Approach for the Extraction of Pure Andrographolide Crystal from Andrographis paniculata”
    Event: National Conference on New Frontiers in Pharmaceutical Research, IGNTU Amarkantak
    Authors: Thirupataiah Boini, R.K. Maurya, L.N. Misro
  • 🏅 SFE Best Poster Presentation Award – Prof. S.S. Handa Memorial Award (2024)
    Paper: “Simultaneous HPTLC Analysis of Five Bioactive Markers in Jwarahara Kwatha Choorna: A Novel ICH-Guided Method for Quality Control”
    Event: 11th International Convention of the Society for Ethnopharmacology (SECON 2024), Gangtok, Sikkim

Publications

As of October 2025, the Department has contributed:

  • 11 Research Articles
  • 4 Review Articles
  • 6 Book Chapters
  • 1 Book
  • 10 Conference Papers / Proceedings
    Total: 32 Publications

Vision

To serve as a Centre of Excellence in Ayurvedic Drug Standardization, contributing to national and global recognition of Ayurvedic formulations through scientific validation, quality assurance, and evidence-based standardization.