“Yuvanpidika : A modern and Ayurvedic perspective.”

Abstract

Acne vulgaris is a chronic skin disease of the pilo-sebaceous unit and develops due to blockages in the skin's hair follicles. It is characterized by blackheads or whiteheads, pimples, oily skin, and possible scarring It primarily affects areas of the skin with a relatively high number of oil glands, including the face, upper part of the chest, and back. These blockages are thought to occur as a result of the following four abnormal processes: a higher than normal amount of oily sebum production (influenced by androgens), excessive deposition of keratin protein leading to comedo formation, colonization of the follicle by Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) bacteria, and the local release of pro-inflammatory chemicals in the skin. The resulting appearance can lead to anxiety, reduced self-esteem and, in extreme cases, depression or suicidal thoughts.

In  Ayurveda, it is termed as Mukhadushika. In Ayurveda, Mukhadushika is described under the heading of Kshudra rogas. These diseases are called as Kshudra because of their lesser severity. According to Sushruta Samhita Nidan Sthana, these are Shalmali thorn like eruption found on the face of adolescents are called as Mukhadushika or Yuvan Pidika. These are impregnated with Meda. Vitiated Vata Dosha, Kapha Dosha and Rakta Dosha are considered to be the main Samprapti Ghatak of Mukhadushika. In Ayurveda treatment of diseases is mainly of two types of Chikitsa are described i.e. Shodhana Chikitsa and Shamana Chikitsa. Similarly in Mukhadushika also Shodhana and Shamana Chikitsa is done.