EXTERNAL TREATMENTS FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF YUVANA PIDAKA (ACNE VULGARIS) THROUGH AYURVEDA - A REVIEW

Abstract

Background - Yuvana pidaka or Mukhadushika is a disease mentioned under the Kshudraroga in Ayurveda. Acarya Susruta was the first and foremost to mention such diseases of the skin. Acne or Acne vulgaris found to have parity with the disease of Yuvana Pidaka, afflicting 79-95% of the adolescent population. There are various line of treatment prescribed for the management of the disease in Ayurveda such as Vamana (Vomiting), Siravedha(Bloodletting), Nasya(drug administration through nasal route), Lepana (Paste), Mukhaprakshalana (Face wash), Udvartana (Massage) and Abhyanga (Applying oil). Aim - The aim of this study was to review the external treatment formulae of Yuvana Pidaka mentioned in Ayurveda and organized these formulae based on the different dosage forms. Methodology Ayurveda texts and their commentaries were completely reviewed and arranged the formulae in to the different dosage forms and then discussed pharmacodynamics properties of the maximum occurrence herb. Review results Among the external treatment prescriptions the maximum number of prescriptions i.e. 81% (18) was found as the Lepana form. Lodra (Symplocos racemosa) was the maximum occurrence herb and it was about 50% (9). The pharmacodynamic properties of the Lodra shows that, it can overcome the vitiated Dosha and Dushya of Yuvana pidaka Conclusion The external applications used as the form of Lepa are the most common dosage form which consists of Lodra (Symplocos racemosa) as the most prevalent herb. Clinical significance Though there is high risk of onset of Yuvana pidaka especially in teenage it can be managed by using simple remedies as Lepa.