Source study of gastric parasitic disease

Abstract

Background: Chronic gastric disorders, including Helicobacter pylori-related diseases, remain an important health issue. In classical Mongolian medical sources, gastric disorders are described through concepts such as gastric parasitic disease, badgan worm and tsankh. However, these descriptions have not been sufÏciently synthesized through a source-based approach. Aim: This study aimed to systematically summarize terminology, etiology, pathogenesis, classification, symptoms, treatment principles, prescriptions and medicinal raw materials related to gastric parasitic disease in traditional Mongolian medical sources, and to cautiously compare selected concepts with modern knowledge of H.pylori. Materials and Methods: A qualitative source-study design was used. Classical and commentary sources, including Bumshi, the Four Medical Tantras, Moon King of Therapy, Altan Khadmal, Bider-Onbo, Managlkhantav, Four Nectars, Uvdisyn Dalai and Mash Gaikhamshigt Khurimyn San, were reviewed. Textual analysis, thematic coding, content analysis, hermeneutic interpretation and comparative analysis were applied. A limited comparison with H.pylori morphology, pathogenesis and symptoms, as well as selected research directions on ingredients of Ruda-6, was included. Results: The sources describe gastric parasitic disease as a condition associated with badgan predominance, digestive weakness, putrefactive processes and accumulation in the stomach. Traditional descriptions such as twisted, thin, long and bundled forms were not considered identical to H.pylori, but they may be compared cautiously with the spiral and motile characteristics of the bacterium at a descriptive level. Repeated symptoms included epigastric pain, stabbing or twisting pain, bitter or sour regurgitation, vomiting, indigestion and weakness. Treatment principles mainly included resolving putrefaction, pacifying the worm, supporting digestion and restoring the balance of badgan. Some medicinal materials used in Ruda-6 have been discussed in modern research in relation to antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory or gastroprotective effects, which may provide a basis for further experimental studies. Conclusion: The traditional concept of gastric parasitic disease has a relatively comprehensive structure in terms of terminology, pathogenesis, symptoms, treatment principles, medicinal raw materials, and prescription use. This study systematizes information from traditional sources and related works and, without directly equating it with H. pylori, provides a basis for comparative interpretation and a foundational resource for future classification, pharmacological, and clinical research.