Lepa Kalpana of Yogaratnakara: A narrative review

Authors

  • Sushama Raje
  • Mohan Joshi

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.70066/jahm.v14i3.2641

Keywords:

Bahir-parimarjan, external application, Lepa chikitsa, Lepa Kalpana, skin care, Topical application, Yogaratnakara.

Abstract

Background: Acharya Charak has explained three treatment modalities, in which Lepa is one of the widely used models of Bahir-parimarjan (treatment modalities used externally). As other treatises Yogaratnakara is widely popular amongst ayurveda practitioners as a handbook for ayurveda treatments for various diseases. Objectives: To study conceptual foundation of Lepa Kalpana and to analyse data of compiled formulations of Lepa from Yogaratnakara. Material and methods: For conceptual study of Lepa chikitsa comprehensive review of Charak Samhita, Sushrut Samhita, Ashtang Hriday, Sharangdhar Samhita, Bhavaprakash Samhita and Yogaratnakara was done. Formulations of Lepa mentioned in various diseases in Yogaratnakara was compiled, analysed and reported in summarized view. Result: In Yogaratnakara 511 Lepa formulations are described for various diseases and conditions. Benefits of Mukhalepa are emphasized. Contraindications of Lepa chikitsa also explained. Generally, Lepa is a derivative of Kalk Kalpana, but in Yogaratnakara, various formulations of Bhaishajya Kalpana are described for the application of Lepa, like herbal juices, carbonised black coloured ash of herbs, decoction, oils, biomedical fermentations, etc. With Herbal ingredients major mineral, and animal sources are utilized for the formation of Lepa. Lepa chikitsa advised in various conditions of almost 61 diseases. On the basis of study, functions of Lepa are classified into 31 types. Lepa Chikitsa mainly has its local effect, but in some conditions, it shows a systemic effect. Conclusion: Lepa Chikitsa might not be a perfect first line of treatment in all diseases or conditions, but it will provide greater help as a supportive treatment.

Author Biographies

Sushama Raje

Assistant Professor, Samhita Siddhant Department, Adarsh Shikshan Vikas Mandal’s Bhimashankar Ayurved College, Hospital & Research Center Wadgaon Kashimbeg(Walunjwadi), Tal- Ambegaon, Dist- Pune, Maharashtra India.

Mohan Joshi

Associate Dean, Professor and HOD, Samhita Siddhant Department, All India Institute of Ayurveda, Goa. India

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Additional Files

Published

2026-04-20

How to Cite

Raje, . S., & Joshi, M. (2026). Lepa Kalpana of Yogaratnakara: A narrative review . Journal of Ayurveda and Holistic Medicine (JAHM), 14(3), 60-72. https://doi.org/10.70066/jahm.v14i3.2641