Management of Mukhadushika (Acne vulgaris) with Jalaukavacharana (Leech Therapy) – A Case Study

Abstract

Jalaukavacharana (Leech Therapy) is one among the Rakfamökshana which is indicated in many kinds of skin manifestations. Similarly, Mukhadüshika (Ace vulgaris) is a common skin disease in adolescents encountered by general practitioners and dermatologists in day today clinical prac- tices. Current treatment procedures which include surgery, laser treatment, Oral antibiotics and topical applications are associated with many side effects, bacterial resistance, and irritation of the skin, peeling, scar and recurrence. But in Ayurveda, the treatment procedures like vamana, löpa, nasya and Raktamökshana are explained. Among these, Raktamök.shana using jalaukä provides a simple, painless, cost-effective treatment for Mukhadushika. A 20 years old female patient pre- sented in Shalya Clinic in Gampaha Wickramarachchi Ayurveda Institute, University of Kelaniya, Yakkala with the complain Of pimples on both cheeks associated with itching, burning sensation for 2 years. Patient was subjected to Jalaukävacharana on both sides Of cheeks of the face due to bilateral distribution ofpidakäs. Jalauküvacharana was done on Day I , Day 5, and Day I O. Before & after treatment assessment was recorded. Patient was followed up for 60 days.This case presented with védana, päka and shöpha, along with däha (burning sensation) and kandu (local- ized itching). Three sittings Of Jalaukävacharana were done (on Day I , Day 5, and Day 10). Here, jalaukä sucks the vitiated blood, does the sthänika shödhana. Ayurveda Raktamökshana using jalaukä provides a simple, painless, cost effective treatment for this common ailment with no short term side effects