Literary study of the external treatment modalities on Dushta vrana in practice

Abstract

Dushta vrana in Ayurveda corresponds to chronic or non-healing wounds in modern medicine. It is characterized by necrotic tissues, excessive pus, Dushita rakta srava, foul odor, and a prolonged healing period, whereas modern medicine defines chronic wounds as those not healing within 30 days. This study aimed to scientifically compile the pharmacodynamic and pharmacological properties of external treatment modalities in current practice. Thirty external treatment modalities on Dushta vrana in practice were collected from the Ayurvedic and traditional practitioners who are working in selected Government hospitals and private sector by using individual discussion method. Data related to phormacodynamic and pharmacological properties were collected from authentic Ayurvedic books and analysis was done by percentage-based statistical method. Analysis of pharmacodynamic properties revealed that most predominant rasa was Madura (50%), Tikta (50%), and Katu (42.30%). The leading Guna were Snigdha (61.53%) and Laghu (42.30%), while both Ushna and Sheeta veerya were equally represented (50%). Most common Vipaka was Katu (61.53%). Regarding pharmacological actions, primary Dosha karma was Vata-Kapha shamana (30.76%) and Pitta vruddhikara (26.39%). The prominent Guna karma included Krimighna (34.61%), Vrana shodhana, Lekhana, and Vishaghna (each 15.38%). These pharmacodynamic and pharmacological properties play a crucial role in converting Dushta vrana into Shuddha vrana, subsequently into Ruhyamana vrana, aligning with progressive stages of wound healing. Particularly, the action of Vrana shodhana supports to promoting sterile environment conducive to healing. In conclusion, these external treatment modalities identified significant efficacy in management of Dushta vrana by supporting wound cleansing, reducing inflammation, enhancing tissue regeneration through their distinct Ayurvedic pharmacodynamic and pharmacological actions.