TREATMENT OF SEVERE KANDU (PRURITUS) OF THE WHOLE BODY WITH THE INTERVENTIONS OF AGADA PRINCIPLES (DUSHI VISHA AND GARA VISHA) – A CASE STUDY

Dr. Bhupesh Kumar Parihar*

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Severe, generalised pruritus (Sarvanaga Kandu) presents a therapeutic challenge, often relapsing after conventional antihistamine and steroid therapy. Ayurveda offers a distinct pathological model through the concepts of Gara Visha (cumulative poison) and Dooshi Visha (latent toxicity), where toxins vitiate the Rasa (plasma) and Rakta (blood) Dhatus, manifesting as stubborn dermatological conditions. This case study evaluates the efficacy of an Ayurvedic protocol based on Agada (anti-toxin) principles for this complex presentation. Methodology: A single case of a 62 -year-old male with severe lower abdomen, legs, thigh, groin region, chronic constipation since 4 years, unresponsive to conventional care, was managed. History of taking opoid water since 20years.The condition was diagnosed as Dooshi Visha-induced Kandu. The structured intervention was conducted in by giving Vishaghna (anti-toxic) using internal medications like Dushivishari Agada, Phalatrikadi kashaya, Kaishora guggulu , Lodhrasva alongside external detoxification by Sarvanaga Prakshalana and local application of medicated oil, supported by a strict Pathya-Apathya (do's and don'ts) dietary regimen. Results: The intervention led to a significant reduction in pruritus and associated symptoms. By the 10 days of treatment a 90 % reduction in itching severity and skin lesions was observed, associated systemic complaints of impaired digestion and constipation were also resolved. Significant reduction in serum creatinine and improvement in 5 D itch scale was observed. Discussion & Conclusion- The successful outcome underscores the relevance of the Dooshi Visha paradigm in managing chronic, recalcitrant pruritus. This case demonstrates that a structured Ayurvedic protocol, underpinned by the principles of Agada Tantra, is a highly effective and sustainable approach for managing severe, generalised Kandu diagnosed as latent toxicity. Further large-scale studies are warranted to validate these findings and integrate this time-tested model into contemporary dermatological practice.

Keywords: Kandu, Puritus, Itching, Dushivisha, Agada, 5D itch scale.