Clinical evaluation of Amrita Ghrita Sneha-Pana followed by Pippalyadi Yoga Virechana in the management of Vicharchika (chronic dermatitis)

Background: Vicharchika is a Kapha dominated Tridoshaja Kshudra Kustha (minor skin disease) primarily characterized by eruptions with hyperpigmentation, itching and profuse discharge, but sometimes there may be dryness with itching, marked linings and thickening of the skin. The clinical presentation of Vicharchika is very much similar to that of Chronic Dermatitis or Eczema. The incidence of the disease is high and the relapsing nature of the disease makes it difficult to cure. Though many treatment modalities are there but in many of the cases the outcome is not satisfactory and long-term conventional treatment increases the chance of drug induced complications. So, in search of an effective, safe and affordable treatment modality the present study was carried-out. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of Amrita Ghrita Sneha-pana followed by Pippalyadi Yoga Virecana in the management of Vicarcika (chronic dermatitis). Materials and Methods: An open level clinical trial with pre-test and post test design were carried out where 30 patients suffering from Vicharchika were registered and were treated with Amrita Ghrita Sneha-pana followed by Virechana with Pippalyadi Yoga. Follow-up was done for 60 days. Assessment was done on 0-day, 15th day, 30th day and 60th day based on the symptoms and standard assessment tool specially designed for Chronic Dermatitis (Eczema). Appropriate statistical methods were used to analyse data. Result: Statistically significant improvement was observed in the symptoms of the disease. Conclusion: Amrita Ghrita Snehapana followed by Pippalyadi Yoga Virecana is found to be effective in the management of Vicharchika.