Understanding role of three ficus species in the management of skin diseases with respect to pittaj kushtha

Abstract

Skin diseases are most common form of infections. Due to changes in lifestyle, food habits and different causative organisms; the occurrence of skin diseases is increasing day by day. While treating of skin diseases, with the help of modern science, success is mixed with lot of hazards. In Ayurveda, all skin diseases are described under the title-‘Kushtha’. Many medicinal plants are described in treatment of Kushtha according to its type. Nyagrodha (Ficus benghalensis), Ashvattha (Ficus religiosa) and Udumbara (Ficus racemosa) are the plants belonging to Moraceae family and Ficus species. These are classified under the Mishrak gana viz. - Panchvalkala Vruksh and Panchkshiri Vruksh, which are used for the treatment of Pittaj kushtha since ages. All these three drugs are in possession of Kashaya Rasa, Katu Vipaka and Sheeta Veerya along with Ruksha guna. Kashaya rasa is composed of Prithvi and Vayu mahabhuta and is responsible for Kledshoshak activity. Kashaya rasa and Sheeta veerya have Pittaghna and Stambhak action by which it reduces kleda which is one of the main Dushyas in Kushtha. Ruksha guna act as kled and strav shoshak. Use of Nyagrodha, Ashvattha and Udumbara may found beneficial in treatment of Pittaj Kushtha. As these drugs are easily available and cost effective; they may offer a helping hand for the poor patients suffering from skin diseases. This review reveals their role in Pittaj Kushtha.