Abstract

Background: I n Ayurveda, all types of Kustha are believed to have a Tridoshaja origin, and they are classified into two categories: Mahakustha and Kshudra Kustha. Vicharchika is a t ype of Kshudra Kustha, characterized b y s ymptoms such as K andu (itching), Srava (discharge), Pidaka (vesicles), and Shyava Varnata (skin discolorat ion). In modern medical terms, Vicharchika closely resembles eczema and is considered a form of dermatitis, where the dermis becomes inflamed, often referred to as Atopic Dermatitis, characterized by pruritis, burning, oozing, papules, vesicles, dr yness, s caling, discoloration and skin lichenification. Vicharchika affects ps ychological health causes anxiety, depression, disturbs the person’s routine thus interrupts th e abilit y to function normall y and lead to social isolation. In classical tex t of Ayurveda Shodhana a nd Shamana therap y i s explained best line of tre atment for Kushta. Among Shodhana therapy Virechana karma is best purificatory therapy in Vicharchika

Material & Methods: A case of 51 year old female patient, presented with excessive Kandu (itching), Rukshata (dryness), small eruptions, Vedana (pain), Raji (thick skin), Vaivarnya (discoloration) on her Hasta Pradesh (hands), Ubhaya Pad Pradesh (toes) and thigh region since 7 years. She had been taking oral anti-allergic medications for pruritus on and off but became frustrated with the frequent relapses. The condition was successfully managed through an Ayurvedic approach.

Results: The significant changes were observed after Virechana karma which was followed by Shamana Aushadhi for 3 months. So the patient showed much improvement in characteristics features of Vicharchika, hence it’s proved Shodhana Karma followed by Shamana Aushadi is an effective treatment in Vicharchika.

Discussion: Favorable outcome was observed due to the Kapha-Pitta balancing, Tridosha-modulating, Kusthaghana, Shothahara, and Kandughana properties of the medications used in Shodhana and Shamana therapies.

Conclusion: Significant results were observed following Virechana Karma and Shamana Chikitsa, with no adverse side effects. This case study highlights that both Shodhana (Virechana Karma) and Shamana Chikitsa are safe and effective in treating Vicharchika.

Keywords- Kushta, Vicharchika, Eczema, Shodhana, Shamana, Virechana