A Case Report on Effect of Dhoopana in Non-Healing Venous Ulcer

Abstract

An ulcer is defined as a break in the continuity of the skin or mucous membrane. Non-healing ulcers are those that do not follow the normal healing process and show no signs of healing after 4 weeks. Non- healing ulcers align with the symptoms of Dhushta Vrana, which include features like Dheerghakalanubandhi (chronicity) and Poothipooyasrava (purulent discharge), Athyartha Vedana. These symptoms are similar to those seen in non-healing ulcers. Dhoopana is recommended for wounds with severe pain, exudation, and a predominance of Vata dosha. In Bhavaprakasha, Nimbapathradi Dhoopana is described, involving ingredients such as Nimbapathra (neem leaves), Vacha, Hingu, Sarpi (ghee), Lavana, and Sarshapa (mustard seeds). These ingredients have actions such as antimicrobial, wound healing, pain-relieving, and which help reduce microbial load and alleviate pain. In modern science, Dhoopana is analogous to the process of fumigation. The main purpose of Dhoopana is to control the spread of infections by sterilizing or fumigating critical areas, such as operation theaters and labor rooms. In a case study of a 85-year-old male patient with a non-healing venous ulcers (2 in number) on the medial aspect of the left lower limb, Dhoopana with Nimbapathradi Choorna was applied for 10 days, twice daily, for 10 minutes. Pain and discharge were assessed using a Visual Rating Scale (VRS) and grading scale, respectively. After the study period, there was significant relief in pain and discharge. Additionally, microbial cultures revealed that the bacteria Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, present before treatment, were absent after the treatment period.