Risk of unsupervised or improperly performed yogic kriya

Vamana Karma, an integral component of Ayurvedic purificatory therapy (Samshodhana Karma), is advocated for detoxification and restoration of doshic balance and is generally regarded as safe when undertaken under appropriate supervision. The present case, however, underscores the potential gastrointestinal complications associated with unsupervised or improperly executed therapeutic emesis as practised in Vaman Kriya. In this instance, a 46-year-old woman developed haematemesis secondary to a mucosal tear precipitated by repeated self-induced vomiting, triggered by digital oropharyngeal stimulation following the ingestion of lukewarm saline water on an empty stomach. This report highlights the need for heightened clinical awareness of alternative health practices when evaluating patients with upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Supervision by qualified practitioners and adherence to established procedural protocols are essential to ensure patient safety and to minimise preventable adverse events.