Abstract

CRITICAL REVIEW OF AYURVEDIC DIAGNOSTIC APPROACHES TO VRANA

Nilima Karansing Valvi*, Hiteshwar D. Lonare and Indrajeet S. Gadge

Abstract

Vrana, representing tissue discontinuity caused by physical, chemical, or microbial factors, remains a fundamental concept in Ayurvedic surgical practice. Its classifications into Nija (Endogenous) and Agantuja (Exogenous) reflect comprehensive etiological insights. Diagnostic approaches rooted in Panchendriya Pariksha and Trividha Pariksha emphasize the role of sensory examination for evaluating symptoms like pain, discharge, and color. Additionally, Shat Kriya Kala outlines six progressive stages of Vrana, providing a temporal framework for disease progression and prognosis. Sushruta’s therapeutic paradigm integrates Shodhana (Cleansing) and Ropana (healing) as sequential processes necessary for effective wound management. While these approaches are holistic and align with modern principles such as debridement and infection control, limitations arise due to the subjective nature of assessments and the lack of empirical validation. Herbal treatments like Aragwadhadi Gana, cited for Dushtavrana management, warrant further clinical investigation to validate their efficacy. This review critically examines the diagnostic and therapeutic frameworks of Vrana, comparing them with contemporary wound care strategies. While Ayurveda offers a robust model integrating systemic and local pathology, the absence of standardized protocols and objective metrics limits broader clinical adoption. Future research should focus on merging traditional diagnostics with modern technologies, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches for holistic and evidence-based wound care.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Vrana, Panchendriya Pariksha, Dushtavrana, Shat Kriya Kala, Shodhana, Ropana, wound healing, holistic management, empirical validation.