Abstract

ROLE OF DRAVYA (LIQUID MEDIA) IN LEPA KALPANA: A REVIEW OF SKIN ABSORPTION AND DRUG DELIVERY

Dr. Priyanka L. Udagatti*, Dr. Mahanetsh B. Rudrapuri, Dr. Jayashree D. Kotabagi

Abstract

Lepa Kalpana is an important form of external therapy (Bahiparimarjana Chikitsa) in Ayurveda and is commonly used in skin, inflammatory, and musculoskeletal disorders. In this preparation, herbal or herbo-mineral powders are mixed and triturated with a suitable liquid medium (Dravya) to form a paste for application on the skin. The choice of Dravya may influence the preparation's consistency, contact time, drug dispersion, and delivery of active constituents to the skin. Classical Ayurvedic texts describe several media, including Goghrita, Taila, Godugdha, Dadhi, Takra, Gomutra, Gopitta, Madhu, Kanji, Jala, and Kwatha. Each medium has specific Ayurvedic properties and traditional indications. Modern pharmaceutical principles also show that topical drug absorption depends on factors such as drug solubility, skin hydration, interaction with the stratum corneum, lipid structure, and thermodynamic activity. This review discusses the traditional role of commonly used Dravya in Lepa Kalpana and relates these properties to possible mechanisms of topical drug delivery. Lipid-rich media may support delivery of lipid-soluble constituents, aqueous and amphiphilic media may improve hydration and dispersion, while acidic or other specialized media may modify the skin environment and drug availability. Understanding the role of Dravya may help in the rational development, standardization, and evaluation of Ayurvedic topical formulations.

Keywords: Lepa Kalpana, Dravya, skin absorption, topical drug delivery, stratum corneum, Ayurvedic pharmaceutics.