Review of skin diseases in Ayurveda: Bruhattrayee and Laghutrayee.

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Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: A review of skin diseases as per ayurveda with reference to bruhattrayee and laghutrayee
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Author:

Vd. Rajendra G. Mane and Vd. Mahesh D. Bhujbal


World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: A review of skin diseases as per ayurveda with reference to bruhattrayee and laghutrayee

Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research

Doi: 10.20959/wjpr202213-25587

Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved


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Summary of article contents:

Introduction

In Ayurveda, skin diseases are extensively documented across various classical texts, particularly the Bruhattrayee and Laghutrayee. These authoritative sources collectively describe over 215 distinct skin ailments, primarily categorized under the term "Kushtha." While many skin diseases are clustered under Kushtha, others are dispersed throughout the literature. This study compiles and categorizes these conditions from renowned Ayurvedic texts including Charak Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Vagbhatta from Bruhattrayee, in addition to Madhav Nidan, Sharangdhar Samhita, and Bhavprakash from Laghutrayee. Notably, some diseases in Laghutrayee are absent from Bruhattrayee, indicating a temporal evolution of Ayurvedic knowledge regarding skin diseases.

Evolution of Skin Disease Classification

One significant observation from the compilation is the differing classification of skin diseases among the texts. For instance, Bruhattrayee lists a total of 182 diseases, while Laghutrayee expands this figure, highlighting an increase in recognized conditions over time. Charak Samhita enumerates approximately 103 skin diseases, while Sushruta and Vagbhatta include 84 and 94 respectively. The Laghutrayee texts offer even more breadth, with Madhav Nidan detailing 140 skin diseases, and Sharangdhar’s text referencing 194. This disparity underscores the evolving understanding of dermatological conditions influenced by various factors, including changes in lifestyle and environmental conditions.

Differences in Disease Description

Another crucial concept is the diverse descriptions of specific skin diseases within the texts. For example, Sushruta Samhita introduces unique conditions under Kushtha that differ from those in Charak. Types of skin diseases categorized as Mahakushtha include specific names such as Siddhma Kustha in Charak, which are excluded in Sushruta and Ashatngahruday that instead describe conditions like Dadru Kushtha. Furthermore, Sushruta's Kshudra Kushtha incorporates types like Sthularushka and Visarpa, which are not mentioned in Charak or Vagbhatta. Such variances highlight the complexities and nuances in traditional Ayurvedic classifications, reflecting possibly distinct clinical observations or philosophies among the authors.

Symptomatology and Dosha Relationships

The manifestation and symptomatology of the skin diseases show intertextual similarities yet underscore unique diagnostic approaches. For instance, while Sushruta and Vagbhatta describe symptoms of diseases like Vidarika differently despite their similar presentations, they also illuminate shared terminologies and conceptual frameworks. Moreover, the categorization of skin conditions into Vataj, Pittaj, and Kaphaj types based on their doshic origins, particularly in Charak, is less emphasized in other texts. This observation not only establishes a foundational Ayurvedic principle of evaluating diseases through the lens of doshic imbalances but also highlights the need for integrative approaches that encompass various authors’ insights.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the review of skin diseases from Bruhattrayee and Laghutrayee textbooks reveals an intricate tapestry of Ayurvedic medicine's historical perspectives on dermatology. With over 215 identified conditions, the compendium reflects the synthesis of ancient wisdom, contributing to our understanding of skin health as influenced by an individual's lifestyle and environmental factors. The evolution in classification and symptomatology points toward a need for continued exploration in the field of Ayurveda, suggesting that as societal contexts change, so does the understanding and categorization of skin diseases. This compilation serves as a valuable resource for practitioners and scholars aiming to grasp the extensive knowledge of skin conditions articulated by revered Ayurvedic scholars throughout history.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is the focus of the review regarding skin diseases?

The review focuses on skin diseases as described in Ayurveda, specifically in texts like Bruhattrayee and Laghutrayee, detailing over 215+ skin diseases and their classifications.

How many skin diseases are mentioned in Bruhattrayee and Laghutrayee?

Bruhattrayee includes approximately 182 skin diseases, while Laghutrayee documents around 215, highlighting various classifications and unique diseases in both collections.

What role do Tridosha play in skin diseases according to Ayurveda?

In Ayurveda, Tridosha—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—are considered fundamental causes of skin diseases, affecting skin health through varied diet and lifestyle factors.

What is the difference between Bruhattrayee and Laghutrayee regarding skin diseases?

Bruhattrayee and Laghutrayee differ in the classification and types of skin diseases, with Laghutrayee including more recent entries indicative of evolving lifestyle factors.

What do the tables in the review provide?

The tables summarize the types and classifications of skin diseases from Bruhattrayee and Laghutrayee, facilitating comparison and understanding of listed diseases.

How do the authors conclude their findings?

The authors conclude that both Bruhattrayee and Laghutrayee provide comprehensive descriptions of skin diseases, categorized by dosha, symptoms, and affected sites, highlighting the evolution of the understanding of these conditions.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Review of skin diseases in Ayurveda: Bruhattrayee and Laghutrayee.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Disease:
The term 'diseases' encompasses a broad spectrum of health issues described in Ayurvedic texts, including skin ailments, internal disorders, and systemic conditions. Ayurveda categorizes over 215 types of skin diseases alone. Recognizing the variety and classification of diseases aids in accurate diagnosis and targeted therapies.

2) Vidradhi:
Vidradhi refers to an inflammatory condition characterized by swelling and redness, often likened to tumors or cysts. In Ayurveda, it is considered a type of roga (disease) and is associated with various doshic imbalances. Treatments focus on balancing the affected dosha and alleviating symptoms.

3) Samhita:
Samhitas are ancient Ayurvedic texts encapsulating medical wisdom, diagnostic principles, and treatment protocols. They form the bedrock of Ayurvedic practices, guiding healthcare professionals through comprehensive knowledge encompassing various health issues.

4) Vidarika:
Vidarika is a type of skin disease mentioned in Ayurvedic texts, often associated with characteristics like a reddish eruption. It is important to recognize specific symptoms to distinguish Vidarika from other conditions. Proper identification aids in selecting suitable treatments based on its dosha involvement.

5) Granthi (Gramthi):
Granthi denotes a type of tumor or lump in the body as described in Ayurvedic literature. These growths can be benign or malignant, necessitating careful diagnosis and management. Granthi treatments typically focus on the root cause and balance the doshas to restore health.

6) Kushtha (Kustha):
Kustha refers to various skin diseases categorized under distinctive manifestations. Understanding Kustha is essential for diagnosing skin conditions and applying suitable Ayurvedic treatments focused on balancing affected doshas.

7) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that emphasizes balance between body, mind, and spirit. It focuses on preventive care and holistic treatments through lifestyle modifications and herbal remedies. Understanding its principles is vital for promoting wellness and treating diseases effectively.

8) Arbuda:
Arbuda describes tumors or abnormal growths within the body in Ayurveda. Like Granthi, it can signify various types of tumors, and understanding its characteristics is critical for diagnosis. Treatment often aims at removing or alleviating the tumor while addressing underlying doshic imbalances.

9) Masurika:
Masurika refers to a type of skin condition or eruption characterized by minor scaling or lesions. It is significant in Ayurveda for its distinct presentation and requires specific treatments based on the dosha involved. Identification helps tailor therapeutic approaches.

10) Visarpa:
Visarpa is a term in Ayurveda referring to a type of skin disease that presents with a serpentine-like spread, often accompanied by heat or inflammation. Recognizing the signs of Visarpa aids in differential diagnosis and selection of appropriate treatments to manage the symptoms.

11) Kshudra (Ksudra):
Kshudra refers to minor or lesser diseases in Ayurveda, often relating to skin conditions. This classification highlights the need for recognizing even seemingly minor disorders, as they can have significant impacts on health. Treatment focuses on quick relief and restoration of balance.

12) Vyadhin (Vyadhi):
Vyadhi denotes disease or disorder in Ayurveda, emphasizing the disturbances in the balance of doshas. Understanding Vyadhi encompasses recognizing symptoms, underlying causes, and employing appropriate treatment strategies. The concept is central to Ayurvedic healing practices.

13) Apachi:
Apachi is a term used in Ayurveda for a specific skin condition characterized by a type of swelling or inflammation. This condition necessitates an understanding of its symptoms and underlying doshic imbalances for effective intervention through Ayurvedic treatments.

14) Sidhma:
Sidhma is a subtype of Kushtha recognized in Ayurvedic texts. It is characterized by specific skin manifestations that require understanding for effective treatment. Its identification helps in applying targeted therapies based on dosha involvement and symptomatology.

15) Dadru:
Dadru is another skin condition categorized under Kushtha in Ayurveda, presenting as eruptions or lesions. Proper identification of Dadru is vital for treatment selection, emphasizing the importance of differentiating it from other similar conditions based on doshic characteristics.

16) Visphota:
Visphota refers to a type of disease or lesion that manifests as blisters or eruptions on the skin. In Ayurveda, understanding Visphota's characteristics and underlying causes aids in developing targeted treatments to manage and alleviate symptoms effectively.

17) Jalini:
Jalini is a form of skin disorder detailed in Ayurveda and may present with distinct characteristics. Recognizing Jalini's symptoms and underlying doshic factors is essential in tailoring Ayurvedic treatments to alleviate the condition.

18) Pidika:
Pidika indicates a form of skin disorder resembling pustules. It's essential for Ayurvedic practitioners to understand Pidika's implications, leading to effective diagnosis and treatment options tailored to its specific symptoms.

19) Roga:
Roga is a Sanskrit term meaning disease or disorder within the Ayurvedic context. It encompasses various health issues, focusing on identifying imbalances in the body, primarily related to the doshas. Roga forms the foundation for Ayurvedic diagnosis and therapeutic approaches.

20) Pama (Pama°):
Pama represents a notable skin condition in Ayurveda, typically characterized by eruptions and irritation. Understanding its signs and symptoms is crucial for recognizing the associated doshic imbalances and for implementing appropriate treatments to manage the condition.

21) Kshudraroga (Kshudra-roga, Ksudraroga):
Kshudra-roga denotes minor ailments or diseases in Ayurveda, particularly concerning skin conditions. This classification emphasizes the importance of even minor health issues and their effective management, as they can influence overall well-being and require prompt treatment.

22) Vipadika:
Vipadika is a type of skin disorder described in Ayurveda, often presenting with burning sensations and lesions. Recognizing the specific features of Vipadika helps practitioners identify it accurately among other skin diseases, facilitating appropriate treatment selection.

23) Vyanga (Vyamga):
Vyanga is categorized under skin diseases in Ayurveda and can manifest with discoloration or spots on the skin. Understanding its symptoms is necessary for clinicians to differentiate it from other skin conditions and apply tailored Ayurvedic remedies.

24) Nilika:
Nilika refers to a particular type of skin disease characterized by localized discoloration. In Ayurveda, recognizing Nilika's symptoms and causative factors is vital for determining the correct treatment and restoring skin health.

25) Kaksha (Kaksa, Kaksheshu):
Kaksha pertains to specific skin conditions linked to certain anomalies or lesions. Understanding Kaksha in Ayurvedic practice includes recognizing symptoms and implementing dosha-specific treatments to promote healing and balance.

26) Rakta:
Rakta refers to blood or a red complexion in Ayurveda and is crucial in diagnosing various conditions. In the context of skin diseases, it reflects the need for understanding blood-related imbalances that may contribute to the manifestation of skin disorders.

27) Bahya:
Bahya means external or outside in Sanskrit. In Ayurveda, it often refers to external manifestations of diseases, particularly skin conditions. Understanding bahya symptoms helps in assessing conditions and crafting external treatment strategies appropriately.

28) Vata:
Vata is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, representing the principles of movement and change. Imbalances in Vata can lead to numerous disorders, including skin diseases. Recognizing Vata’s role emphasizes the importance of balance for maintaining health.

29) Sparshahani (Sparsahani, Sparsha-hani):
Sparshahani refers to a condition in Ayurveda characterized by loss of sensation or touch. This aspect relates to the effects of underlying doshic imbalances. Proper understanding of sparshahani is essential for developing effective treatments for skin and sensory disorders.

30) Shukadosha (Sukadosa, Suka-dosa):
Shukadosha signifies a specific category of conditions described in Ayurveda, particularly affecting the skin. This classification helps in understanding various skin disorders and tailoring adequate treatments, emphasizing the dosha's involvement in symptoms and progression.

31) Ajagallika (Aja-gallika):
Ajagallika refers to a skin condition that may present with specific features in Ayurveda. Its identification is crucial for distinguishing it from other skin disorders, leading to appropriate treatment methods based on underlying doshic factors.

32) Kumbhika (Kumbha-ika):
Kumbhika is a term describing a type of skin condition characterized by swelling or abnormalities. Understanding its manifestations in Ayurvedic practice aids in accurately diagnosing and managing the condition through appropriate therapeutic measures.

33) Gardabha:
Gardabha is a term related to specific skin disorders in Ayurveda, often presenting as rough patches or lesions. Recognizing its features allows practitioners to differentiate it from similar conditions and apply targeted Ayurvedic therapies for effective treatment.

34) Kaphaja:
Kaphaja refers to conditions or diseases stemming from the Kapha dosha, typically presenting with characteristics like heaviness and moisture. Understanding its impact aids practitioners in addressing related issues, focusing on restoring balance and health through appropriate remedies.

35) Pittaja (Pitta-ja):
Pittaja denotes disorders originating from the Pitta dosha, often characterized by heat and inflammation. Recognizing the symptoms of Pittaja conditions helps Ayurvedic practitioners in diagnosing and formulating treatments aimed at cooling and balancing the body.

36) Palita:
Palita is used in Ayurveda to describe a type of skin condition associated with changes in hair pigmentation, particularly greying. Recognizing Palita and its implications helps in appropriately treating related concerns and understanding underlying doshic influences.

37) Vataja (Vata-ja):
Vataja signifies conditions arising from Vata imbalance, commonly presenting symptoms linked to dryness and irregularity. Understanding Vataja helps practitioners develop effective Ayurvedic therapies to address these issues while restoring necessary doshic balance.

38) Guda:
Guda refers to the anal region in Ayurveda and also denotes specific disorders affecting that area. Understanding Guda's anatomical and clinical aspects is critical for diagnosing and managing related health issues, particularly those involving external manifestations.

39) Maharashtra (Maharastra, Maha-rashtra):
Maharashtra is a western Indian state, known for its rich cultural heritage and medical practices, including Ayurveda. The region's diverse flora provides numerous medicinal plants critical for Ayurveda's practices and treatments, fostering a vibrant environment for holistic healing.

40) Rasashastra (Rasa-shastra, Rasasastra):
Rasashastra is a specialized branch of Ayurveda focusing on alchemy and the use of minerals and metals in treatments. It merges traditional herbal knowledge with mineral-based therapies, essential for enhancing the efficacy of treatments and expanding therapeutic options in Ayurveda.

41) Vatarakta (Vata-rakta):
Vatarakta denotes a specific disorder characterized by inflammation or conditions linked to Vata imbalances affecting the blood or circulatory system. Understanding Vatarakta is vital for Ayurvedic practitioners to apply targeted interventions to restore balance and alleviate symptoms.

42) Pundarika (Pumdarika):
Pundarika describes a type of skin condition associated with white or pale lesions. Proper identification of Pundarika within Ayurveda helps in distinguishing it from other diseases, allowing practitioners to tailor treatments according to its characteristics.

43) Shiroroga (Siroroga, Shiras-roga):
Shiroroga refers to disorders related to the head, particularly in the context of skin and hair health. Understanding Shiroroga is essential in Ayurvedic medicine for diagnosing and treating head-related ailments effectively, restoring health and vitality.

44) Tridosha (Tridosa, Tri-dosha):
Tridoshas represent the three primary energies in Ayurveda—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Their balance is fundamental to health, and understanding Tridoshas is crucial for diagnosing and crafting treatment plans for various health conditions.

45) Grathita:
Grathita refers to a condition related to growths or tumors, particularly indicating swelling or firm structures. Understanding Grathita is crucial in diagnosing tumors and developing targeted Ayurvedic therapies aimed at minimizing their impact on health.

46) Shlipada (Slipada):
Shlipada describes a specific type of skin condition characterized by roughness or a hardened appearance. Recognizing it allows practitioners to differentiate it from other skin ailments and choose appropriate treatments based on doshic influences.

47) Sharkara (Sarkara):
Sharkara in Ayurveda commonly refers to crystalline sugar or jaggery, often used as a sweetener in herbal formulations. Its properties contribute to enhancing the palatability of medicines and can play a role in balancing certain doshic conditions.

48) Prameha:
Prameha signifies a metabolic disorder primarily characterized by excessive urination and often associated with a range of symptoms. This condition is significant in Ayurveda as it requires targeted approaches for balance restoration and symptom management.

49) Shataru (Sataru):
Shataru refers to a type of Ayurvedic skin disease characterized by certain lesions. Understanding its manifestation is critical for proper diagnosis and treatment, ensuring that therapeutic measures align with the disease's specific symptoms.

50) Mandala (Mamdala):
Mandala in Ayurveda refers to certain skin lesions, often indicating disease manifestations resembling circular shapes. Recognizing Mandala assists practitioners in diagnosing and differentiating from other similar skin conditions, facilitating targeted treatment plans.

51) Kitibha:
Kitibha is described in Ayurveda as a skin disorder associated with itchiness and scaling. Its identification is vital for effective clinical diagnosis and treatment within Ayurvedic practices, emphasizing the importance of addressing underlying doshic imbalances.

52) Shotha (Sotha):
Shotha denotes swelling or edema in Ayurveda, often indicating inflammation or other underlying conditions. Recognizing Shotha is important for diagnosis and treatment, as it often accompanies several skin and systemic diseases.

53) Daruna:
Daruna refers to a severe form of skin condition in Ayurveda, typically depicting acute pain or significant discomfort. Understanding its symptoms helps practitioners identify and manage such conditions effectively with suitable Ayurvedic remedies.

54) Kapala:
Kapala stands for a specific type of disease characterized by unique manifestations. In Ayurveda, understanding Kapala is significant for correct diagnosis and subsequently administering appropriate treatment methods based on its underlying causes.

55) Udarda:
Udarda refers to a scalp condition characterized by itchiness and irritation. Recognizing its symptoms is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment in Ayurveda, helping to restore scalp health and overall well-being.

56) Vatika:
Vatika denotes conditions arising from excess Vata dosha, typically presenting with dryness and irregularity in skin or bodily functions. Understanding how Vatika manifests assists practitioners in developing targeted interventions to restore dosha balance.

57) Mandal:
Mandal represents a specific class of skin diseases with distinctive patterns or formations. Recognition of Mandal aids in clinical diagnosis in Ayurveda, allowing practitioners to differentiate between various skin conditions and apply suitable treatments.

58) Pitta:
Pitta refers to the dosha associated with heat and transformation in Ayurveda. An imbalance in Pitta can lead to skin irritation and various disorders. Understanding Pitta's role is crucial for diagnosing and treating heat-related ailments effectively.

59) Aruna:
Aruna describes conditions manifesting with reddish lesions or changes in skin color. Recognizing Aruna in Ayurvedic practice assists in accurately identifying skin diseases and applying appropriate treatments based on doshic involvement.

60) Kotha:
Kotha refers to a type of skin condition associated with particular symptoms, such as swelling or lesions. Understanding Kotha aids practitioners in differentiating it from other skin diseases and facilitates targeted therapeutic approaches.

61) India:
India is the birthplace of Ayurveda, with a rich history of traditional medicine that influences health practices worldwide. Understanding its cultural significance and diverse flora is crucial for leveraging local resources in developing Ayurvedic treatments.

62) Table:
In this context, 'Table' refers to organized data formats within the study that summarize information about Ayurvedic skin diseases. Tables facilitate comprehension and analysis by providing clear comparative insights on various conditions as categorized in classical texts.

63) Agni:
Agni signifies the concept of digestive fire in Ayurveda, essential for maintaining health and wellness. Imbalances in Agni can lead to various skin and systemic diseases, highlighting the need for understanding its role in treatment strategies.

64) Pune:
Pune is a city in Maharashtra, India, known for its rich Ayurvedic heritage. It serves as a hub for various Ayurvedic practices and education, fostering research and development in the field of traditional medicine.

65) Sushruta-samhita (Susruta-samhita):
Sushruta-samhita is one of the foundational texts of Ayurveda, authored by Sushruta, focusing on surgery and skin ailments. It provides detailed insights into various procedures, diagnoses, and treatments that form the cornerstone of Ayurvedic surgical practices.

66) Mukhadushika (Mukha-dushika, Mukhadusika):
Mukhadushika refers to skin conditions affecting the face, characterized by eruptions or pimples. Recognizing its symptoms is crucial for effective Ayurvedic management, ensuring treatments focus on both external manifestations and internal health.

67) Ekakushtha (Ekakustha, Eka-kushtha):
Ekakushtha describes a specific type of skin disease in Ayurveda characterized by singular skin lesions. Recognizing its features is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment selection.

68) Nakhabheda (Nakha-bheda):
Nakhabheda denotes a condition affecting nails, often manifesting with splitting or jagged edges. Understanding Nakhabheda is vital in Ayurveda for addressing nail-related disorders through appropriate treatments that restore health.

69) Audumbara:
Audumbara refers to a skin condition characterized by certain signs or lesions, typically requiring specific focus in Ayurvedic treatment. Proper identification aids practitioners in applying appropriate remedies.

70) Parisarpa:
Parisarpa describes a type of skin disease with characteristics like spreading lesions. Recognizing its symptoms is important for diagnosis within Ayurvedic practice, facilitating targeted treatment approaches.

71) Khalitya:
Khalitya refers to hair loss or baldness in Ayurveda, often classified under head-related conditions. Understanding its causes is crucial for deploying effective treatments aimed at restoring hair health and addressing dietary or lifestyle factors.

72) Ashtanga (Astanga, Ashtan-anga):
Ashtanga refers to the 'Eight Limbs' of yoga, fundamental to Ayurvedic practices, connecting holistic health with physical and mental well-being. Understanding Ashtanga's principles fosters a comprehensive approach to health that supports Ayurveda's therapeutic practices.

73) Alasaka:
Alasaka denotes a skin condition characterized by specific lesions or symptoms. Proper understanding of Alasaka assists practitioners in accurate diagnosis and implementation of suitable Ayurvedic treatments.

74) Mashaka (Masaka):
Mashaka refers to microscopic entities or conditions in Ayurveda, often associated with skin diseases. Recognition of Mashaka helps in identifying underlying causes and applying relevant treatments in Ayurveda.

75) Valmika:
Valmik refers to certain skin ailments characterized by roughness or lesions. Understanding and identifying these conditions is essential for effective treatment within the Ayurvedic framework.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 120]

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Kushtha, Tridosha, Vagbhatta, Diet, Skin, Physical activities, Skin disease, Types of skin disease, Time period, Ayurvedic literature, Charak Samhita, Sushrut Samhita, Madhav Nidan, Sharangdhar Samhita, Bhavprakash, Laghutrayee.

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