Abstract

A CONCEPTUAL REVIEW ON THE ROLE OF VAJRAKA TAILAM IN THE MANAGEMENT OF VICHARCHIKA

Dr. Ritu*, Dr. Rakesh Pawar

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Abstract

Background: Vicharchika is a chronic skin disorder described in Ayurveda, comparable to eczema in modern medicine. It is characterized by symptoms like kandu (itching), pidaka (papules), srava (discharge), and rukshata (dryness). Conventional treatments often provide only symptomatic relief with chances of recurrence. Ayurvedic formulations such as Vajraka Tailam have been highlighted in classical texts for their role in Kustha Chikitsa due to their kandughna, krimighna, and shothahara properties. Aim: To conceptually review the role of Vajraka Tailam in the management of Vicharchika with reference to classical texts and modern dermatological understanding. Objectives: To compile classical references regarding Vajraka Tailam and its indications. To analyze the Ayurvedic pharmacological properties of the formulation. To correlate the probable mode of action of Vajraka Tailam in Vicharchika with modern dermatological perspectives. Materials and Methods: This is a conceptual review based on Ayurvedic classical literature (Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Bhaishajya Ratnavali, and Yoga Ratnakara), along with contemporary commentaries and modern dermatological texts. Data were collected, classified, and interpreted to highlight the relevance of Vajraka Tailam in Vicharchika. Results: Classical references suggest Vajraka Tailam as a potent formulation in skin diseases involving Kapha-Pitta predominance. Its ingredients possess kandughna (anti-pruritic), krimighna (anti-microbial), shothahara (anti-inflammatory), and tvachya (skin-nourishing) actions. Modern research indicates potential antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties of its constituents, which align with the pathology of eczema. Conclusion: Vajraka Tailam offers a promising Ayurvedic approach in the management of Vicharchika, addressing both symptomatic relief and underlying dosha imbalance. Further clinical and pharmacological studies are needed to validate its efficacy and establish it as an integrative dermatological intervention.

Keywords: Vajraka Tailam, Vicharchika, Kustha, Ayurveda, Eczema, Taila Kalpana.