Ringworm & Ayurveda An Overview

Skin is the first line of defence which protects us from infections and injuries. According to WHO, 20-25% of world population, have­ superficial fungal infections. 
 

A common communicable fungus infection is tinea corporis also known as Ringworm or (Dadra), characterised by a scaly, ring-shaped rash, on the buttocks, trunk, arms, legs and anywhe­re on the skin, itching (kandu), enlarged circular rashes (utsanna mandala), redness (raaga), and small bumps (pidikas). 
 

Ayurveda has classified skin diseases or"kushtha", into "mahakushtha" that is (major skin disease) and "kshudrakushtha” that is (minor skin disease). 
 

According to Charaka Samhita, Dadru is a Kshudra Kushtha. There are seven causes of Kushtha, which involves imbalance of three Doshas which are (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) and four bodily tissue­s that are (skin, blood, muscle, lymph). 
 

These imbalances directly affect the skin, as it is the outermost layer. Blood circulates the toxins in whole body which gets eliminated by the lymphs. But, if there is any blockage in lymph flow it can cause toxins to build up and ultimately lead to diseases like Ringworm. 
 

Ayurveda includes various internal and external remedies that cure ringworms such as sodhana(Purification), shaman(Palliative) chikitsa and various herbal remedies and methods like purgation, dietary changes and ayurvedic medicines that includes karanj oil, Arogyavardhini vati etc