Abstract

JALUKAVACHARANA: A PROMISING AYURVEDIC TREATMENT FOR VARICOSEVEINS AND VARICOSE ULCER

Dr. Chopade Sushama Dnyaneshwar* and Dr. Diware Chinmay Gopal

.

Abstract

Venous insufficiency ulcers, also known as varicose ulcers, are wounds that occur due to the improper functioning of venous valves. These ulcers are the most common type of leg ulcers, accounting for 70% to 90% of cases. Venous ulcers usually develop on the medial distal leg and can be quite painful. If not treated properly, they can become infected, leading to cellulitis or gangrene, which may eventually result in amputation of the limb. Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine, also has a mention of chronic ulcers. In Sushrut Samhita, the most scientific description of wound and its management is found. The text gives utmost importance to bloodletting and considers leech therapy, or jalukavacharan, as the most unique and effective method of bloodletting, even in cases of infected wounds and abscesses. Conservative management techniques, such as compression stockings, foot elevation, antibiotics, and regular dressing of the wound, are usually the first line of treatment for venous ulcers. However, if these methods fail, surgical treatments such as skin grafting, sclerotherapy, laser ablation, and other corrective surgeries may be used. It Is important to note that recurrence of venous ulcers is common, ranging from54 to 78% by the fifth year after healing. Therefore, long-term management andmonitoring are crucial to prevent the development of new ulcers and manage existing ones effectively.

Keywords: Ulcers, varicose, Sushrut Samhita, leech therapy, jalukavachara.