Panchkarma in Surgical Diseases: A Review of Classical Text

Abstract

Panchkarma is a part of Kayachikitsa with a fivefold cleansing or detoxification process, which includes Vamana, Virechana, Basti, Raktamokshana, and Nasya. These fivefold Shodhana karmas exert their efficacy by influencing different doshas or adhisthana and expelling them through the nearest exit source. Although the field of Panchkarma comes under Kayachikitsa, there are several mentions of the extensive use of Panchkarma in all branches of Ashtanga Ayurveda. For example, Shalya tantra is one of the crucial branches of Ashtanga Ayurveda which specifically focuses on the process of Shalya (foreign body) extraction. In contrast, Acharaya Sushruta mentions using Panchkarma as purva karma for different surgical processes. Like any other Nidana (etiological factor), Shalya also acts as a nidana by vitiating doshas according to its location, nature or kala (period). The study's primary aim is to do a comprehensive review of Panchkarma procedures mentioned in surgical diseases covering all references and studies. Research is conducted by searching various classical texts and databases to fulfil the objective. Along with its application in surgical diseases, this article also highlights the application of Panchkarma in emergency conditions. In this article, all Panchkarma processes mentioned in surgical diseases are explained, and a table is made for reviewing it easily. Thus, this review will focus on the Panchkarma process mentioned in Shalya Tantra and the need for extensive research in this field, as most procedures still need to be explored.

Conceptual Study of Shatkriyakala and Its Applicability in Surgical Diseases

“…48,49 The Rasayana treatments or any other medications and nutrients, by Ayurveda, reach the target places more efficiently if Panchakarma first cleanses the bodily channels. 50 An important part of cancer treatment involves the application of Rasayanaprayoga (immunotherapy), an Ayurvedic technique for revitalizing the body's support system. 51 The entire point of the ancient Ayurvedic teachers' explanation of shat-kriya kala is to underline how crucial it is to comprehend the significance of even these early phases and vague symptoms in managing an illness.…”