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Clinical Dermatology Open Access Journal Research Article 6 min read

Clinical Importance of Agrya Ausadha Aragvadha in the Management of Vicharchika: A Pharmacological Review

Manisha B*, Suresh C and Singh DC
* Corresponding author
ISSN: 2574-7800  10.23880/cdoaj-16000331  Received: August 31, 2024  Published: September 30, 2024
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Aragvadha Mridu Virechan Anekvidhkalpana Agrya
Abstract

In Ayurvedic clinical practice, agrya ausadha are the first drug of choice for treatment of various diseases. Aragvadha, as an agrya ausadha, is employed for its therapeutic benefits in both internal and external applications. It is notably used for mridu virechana (mild purgation) and as a topical remedy for various types of Kustha. In ayurvedic dermatology kustha has been taken as supreme word for all skin diseases. Vicharchika, classified as a Kshudra Kustha, is treated through the dual principles of Sodhana (purification) and Samana Chikitsa (pacification). The Majja (pulp) of Aragvadha is utilized for internal Sodhana therapy, while the leaves are applied externally as a paste for samana Chikitsa. Preliminary findings indicate that Aragvadha meets the criteria for an ideal drug as per classical Ayurveda, given its accessibility (Bahuta), versatility in formulations (anekvidhkalpana), and effectiveness (yogatyam). Aragvadha, through its varied formulations, plays a crucial role in the Ayurvedic management of Vicharchika. Its use aligns with the principles of Sodhana and Samana Chikitsa, offering a comprehensive approach to treating this skin disorder. The study highlights the clinical significance of different parts of Aragvadha and supports its continued use in Ayurvedic dermatological practice.

Introduction

In clinical practice, the choice of drug is a crucial aspect of treatment. The term “Agrya” means “Shrestha”, which signifies the best among all options [1]. Ekal ausadhi, or single drug therapy, often yields the best results in disease treatment. In Ayurveda, the term Kustha broadly encompasses various skin disorders, and Vicharchika, considered a low-intensity form of Kshudra Kushtha, is analogous to eczema in modern terms. Eczema affects 15-20% of children and 1-3% of adults, with prevalence increasing in industrialized nations [2]. In India, eczema has a point prevalence of 6.75%. Contemporary treatments are limited to symptomatic relief through antihistamines, corticosteroids, immunomodulators, and phototherapy, which can have long-term side effects. In contrast, Ayurveda offers a comprehensive approach to treating skin ailments through various methods, including internal and external therapies like: • Anthaparimarjan chikitsa (mainly include sodhana and other panchkarma procedures) • Bahiparimarjan chikitsa (lepa, abhyang, etc.) Among all dravyas, Aragvadha is considered the agrya aushadha for mridu virechana [3] (mild purgation). Although Khadir is the agrya dravya and the drug of choice for all types of kustha (skin disorders), [3] Acharya Chakrapani considers Aragvadha to be one of the best drugs for bahiparimarjana chikitsa (external purification) in various skin disorders [4].

In this statement, dates are the chief among the medicines for the cure of leprosy, yet he teaches the killing of the snakes instead of the dates, in order to explain that the killing of the snakes is the chief among the medicines for wiping the outside of the leprosy.

Acharya Charaka mentions topical applications (i,e, lepa) that are applied for treating skin diseases (Kushtha) yield immediate results when administered after the aggravated doshas have been eliminated and the body’s channels have been thoroughly purified [5].

As stated, “The ointments which are used for leprosy, for the removal of the evils of the weapons, and for the repair of the hearts, are immediately perfected” (Cha.Chi. A) While Aragvadha is often used as a single drug, it is also formulated in multiple ways and is equally effective in both anta and bahimarjana chikitsa. It is particularly beneficial in curing a variety of skin diseases, especially in kapha pradhana kustha [6] such as vicharchika (eczema).

Aim and Objectives

1. To study the clinical importance of Aragvadha in the management of Vicharchika.

2. To evaluate clinical importance of different formulations of Aragvadha in Vicharchika.

Aragvadha

Cassia fistula, commonly referred to as Amaltas in Hindi or Golden Shower in English, is a well-known plant found in deciduous forests, thriving at elevations up to 1300 meters in the outer Himalayas. Belonging to the Fabaceae family, this plant is highly adaptable, capable of growing in poor, shallow soils, as well as on rocky and stony terrain. It is widely cultivated across Bangladesh and other Asian regions, including India, the Philippines, Hong Kong, China, Mexico, Africa, South Asia, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand. Known for its medicinal properties, the entire plant has been used for centuries in various treatments for numerous ailments [7].

Ayurvedic Disease Review

According to Acharya Charaka, Vicharchika is a skin disease characterized by eruptions with itching, dark pigmentation, and profuse discharge from the lesions [8]. Acharya Vagbhata further elaborates, describing Vicharchika as blackish eruptions with intense itching and watery discharge, referred to as Lasikadhya [9]. Sushruta defines it as a condition with dry skin lesions, severe itching, and marked lines [10]. He adds that if similar lesions appear on the feet with pain, it is termed Vipadika (Tables 1 & 2).

Acharya Charaka categorises vicharchika under Kapha pradhana kustha [11] and Acharya Sushruta considered as pita Pradhan vyadhi (Figure 1) [12].

S.no.NighantuRasaGunaVeeryaVipakaTherapeutic actions on doshas
1Bhav Prakash N, et al.
[13]		MadhuraGuruSheeta-Pittahara, Kaphahara
2Raj N, et al. [14]Madhura-Sheeta-Kaphahara
3Shaligrama N, et al.
[15]		MadhuraGuru,snigdha,
mrudu		SheetaMadhuraPittahara, Kaphahara
4Dhanvantri N[16]MadhuraLaghu,SaraSheeta-Vatahara, Pittahara
5Kaiyadev N, et al. [17]Madhura,
Tikta		Guru,MruduSheetaMadhuraVatahara, Pittahara
6Abhinav N [18]MadhuraGuruSheetaVatahara, Pittahara
9Madanpal N [19]MadhuraGuru, MruduSheetaMadhuraVatahara, Pittahara
10Adarsha N [20]MadhuraGuru, MruduSheetaMadhuraPittahara, Kaphahara
11Priya N [21,22]Madhura----

Table 1: Phytochemical Constituent and Pharmacological Action of different part of Aragvadha.

Table1: Pharmacological properties (rasa panchaka of Aragvadha).

Figure 1: Fruit pulp, root bark, stem bark, leaves, flowers, pods, Root.
Click to enlarge
Figure 1: Fruit pulp, root bark, stem bark, leaves, flowers, pods, Root.
Part usedPhytochemical ConstituentTherapeutic Action
LeavesRhein and its glycoside sennosides A and BAnti –ulcer ,anti –microbial ,anti-
fungal activity 23,24
PodFistulicacid and rhein glycosideLaxative activity 25
FlowersCeryl alcohol, fistulin, rhein dianthroquinone glucosideLaxative25
Fruit pulpProteins, carbohydrates, arginine, leucine, methionine, phenylalaninePurgative, laxative,25
SeedsGalactomannam composed of D-galactose and D – mannose Plant
Seven bioflavonoid and two tri		laxative and carminative
properties26
Root barkfistucacidin,Strong purgative26

Table 2: Phytochemical Constituent and Pharmacological Action of different part of Aragvadha.

Pharmacological Actions and Therapeutic Use of Different Part of Aragvadha in Vicharchika

For Anthaparimarjan

Aragavdha Phal Majja as Laxative or Purgative: It is clinically proven that the dose-dependent actions of Aragvadha make it effective as both a laxative and a purgative. Due to its purgative and laxative properties, it is used in shodhana chikitsa to expel morbid doshas from the body, which is the first line of treatment for vicharchika (eczema) and various types of kustha (skin disorders). As described by the Acharyas, Aragvadha is a safe drug for all age groups and is easily available in almost all parts of the country [25]. Aragvadha flower as Laxative: Gulkand is made from Aragvadha flowers and also acts as a laxative for kostha shuddhi (bowel cleansing). Aragvadha Root as Strong Purgative: Aragvadha root is a strong purgative. When combined with different anupāna (substances), Aragvadha root powder acts as a powerful purgative and is used as virechaka aushadha in Panchakarma procedures Thus it helps in sodhana chikitsa [26]. Aragvadha Patra (leaves) as bahiparimarjana Chikitsa & Aragvadha patra (leaves) as lepa kalpana: In Ayurvedic scriptures, wherever Kushtha treatment is mentioned, Lepa Kalpana treatment is also described, without exception [27]. Acharya Chakrapani considered Aragvadha as the pradhanatama dravya for Kushtha in bahirparimarjana chikitsa [4]. The term “Bahirparimarjana Chikitsa” refers to a combination of medical procedures and drugs that involve skin contact, such as Abhyanga, Sveda, Lepa, Pradeha, Parisheka, and Unmardana, to relieve skin-related ailments. Aragvadha leaves exhibit wound-healing properties and have antimicrobial action. Additionally, Acharya Charaka included Aragvadha under the Kusthaghana [28] and Kandughana [29] Mahakashayas. Due to which it pacify many symptoms of vicharchika (Figure 2).

Figure 2: Mode of action of A_ragvadha_.
Click to enlarge
Figure 2: Mode of action of A_ragvadha_.

Conclusion

In Ayurvedic clinical practice, Agrya Ausadha is considered a primary drug for treating various diseases. Ayurvedic dermatology, Kustha is useful for skin diseases. The Majja (pulp) of Aragvadha is utilized for internal Sodhana therapy, while the leaves are applied externally as a paste for Samana Chikitsa. Through its varied formulations, Aragvadha plays a crucial role in the Ayurvedic management of Vicharchika.

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@article{manisha2024,
  title   = {Clinical Importance of Agrya Ausadha Aragvadha in the
Management of Vicharchika: A Pharmacological Review},
  author  = {Manisha B, Suresh C and Singh DC},
  journal = {Clinical Dermatology Open Access Journal},
  year    = {2024},
  volume  = {9},
  number  = {3},
  doi     = {10.23880/cdoaj-16000331}
}
Manisha B, Suresh C and Singh DC (2024). Clinical Importance of Agrya Ausadha Aragvadha in the
Management of Vicharchika: A Pharmacological Review. Clinical Dermatology Open Access Journal, 9(3). https://doi.org/10.23880/cdoaj-16000331
TY  - JOUR
TI  - Clinical Importance of Agrya Ausadha Aragvadha in the
Management of Vicharchika: A Pharmacological Review
AU  - Manisha B, Suresh C and Singh DC
JO  - Clinical Dermatology Open Access Journal
PY  - 2024
VL  - 9
IS  - 3
DO  - 10.23880/cdoaj-16000331
ER  -