Agada-based Ayurveda management of Dadru (Tinea corporis) – A case report

Abstract

Background: The majority of skin conditions in Ayurveda fall under "Kushta". Dadru is a sub-classification of the Kushta. Dadru (Tinea corporis), a skin condition, has become more prevalent in our society in recent years. It is a tridoshaja vyadhi, with a predominance of pitta and kapha doshas. It is a skin condition marked by papules with dark pigmentation and a tendency to spread. Clinical findings: A 55-year-old male presented to the skin OPD with a circular, dry, hyperpigmented active lesion over the chest region and associated with severe itching, symptoms had persisted for the past six months. The lesion had gradually increased in size despite topical cream use. Microscopic examination of skin scrapings revealed fungal elements, confirming the diagnosis of Dadru (Tinea corporis). The condition was managed with only external application of Bilwadi agada and Nalpamradi taila, both applied twice a day for 10 days, followed by only application of Nalpamradi taila twice a day for the next 10 days; thus, had two follow-ups on the 11th and 21st days. Possessing krimighna (antimicrobial), kandughna (anti-pruritic), and vishaghna (detoxifying), Twak-prasadana (skin-brightening) synergistically relieves symptoms of Dadru. By the 21st day, Kandu (itching) and Raga (erythema) reduced to grade 1 (mild), while Pidaka (papular eruptions) and Rookshata (dryness) and Utsanna Mandala (elevated lesions) completely resolved to grade 0. Outcome: Notable improvement in symptoms and the size of the lesion was reduced, restoring the skin to its normal texture and colour and on KOH mount for presence of fungal hyphae microscopic examination of the lesion showed Hyphae absent and no spores indicating clearing of the fungal elements. Conclusion: The external application of Bilwadi agada and Nalpamradi taila significantly reduced symptoms and achieved microbial clearance, thus managing Dadru effectively in 21 days.