Abstract

MANAGEMENT OF VICHARCHIKA (ECZEMA) IN AYURVEDA – A REVIEW

Sonali Dilip Wairagade, Poonam Madan* and Tanvi Wairagade

ABSTRACT

In Ayurveda, all skin diseases are included in Kushtharoga. There are two types of Kushtharoga i.e. Mahakushtha and Kshudrakushtha which are again classified into seven types and eleven types respectively. It is classified as one of the “Astha Mahagada”. Vicharchika (Eczema) is a type of kshudrakushtha often encountered by Ayurvedic Dermatologists characterized with symptoms like kandu (itching), srava (discharge), Pidaka (vesicles) and Shyava varna (discoloration). According to modern science, Vicharchika has similar clinical presentation as Eczema. Eczema is a form of dermatitis where inflammation of dermis occurs. It is also known as atopic dermatitis which is characterized by dry itchy skin with areas of poorly demarcated erythema and scale. Modern science has no specific medication or treatment for sure of eczema but symptomatic treatments like steroids are used as it has serious side effect also reoccurrence is common. Main line of treatment for vicharchika in Ayurveda is Shodhana and shaman aushadhis. Ayurveda treats from the root of eczema by cleansing Doshas and balancing Doshas and Dhatus.

Keywords: Vicharcika, Mahakustha, Kshudra Kustha, Eczema, treatment, prevention, epidemiology.