Ayurvedic Management of Dagdha Vrana with respect to Second Degree Burn: A Case Report

Abstract

Burns involve coagulative tissue necrosis and epithelial loss due to drastic change in temperature. In diabetic individuals, such injuries are often complicated by persistent discharge, delayed tissue repair, hypertrophic scarring, and contractures. Despite advances in modern medicine, gaps such as prolonged antibiotic use, delayed epithelialization, recurrent contractures, and high treatment cost remain. Ayurveda offers promising alternatives that promote faster recovery and minimal scarring. A 63-year-old male with type 2 diabetes mellitus presented with a non-healing ulcer over the anteromedial aspect of the left knee joint, one month after an accidental hot water burn. The wound showed slough, pale granulation tissue, and purulent discharge. The condition was diagnosed as a second-degree burn and correlated with Durdagdha Vrana in Ayurvedic parlance.  Treatment included Vrana Prakshalana (wound irrigation) with Nimba Kwatha and dressing with Apamarga Kshara Taila for 21 days, followed by application of Yashtimadhu Ghritha until healing. Oral medications—Kaishora Guggulu (one gram, thrice daily before food with warm water) and Eranda Bhrishta Haritaki (five gram at bedtime with warm water) were administered throughout the treatment period. The patient achieved complete wound healing by Day 72, with restoration of knee joint function and no complications such as infection, hypertrophic scarring, or contracture. Notably, the ulcer was located at the knee joint, a site described by Acharya Sushrutha as Kṛcchrasadhya (difficult to heal) due to constant movement, yet the outcome demonstrates successful management. This case demonstrates the novel application of Apamarga Kshara Taila in burn wound debridement, integrated with Ayurvedic wound-healing strategies, offering a safe and cost-effective approach in metabolically compromised patients.