Ksharakarma in Shalakya Tantra: A Review

Abstract

Kshara is one of the Ayurvedic modalities used from the ancient period for the treatment of various diseases. Acharya Sushruta who is worshipped as the "Father of Surgery" is the pioneer of Kshara Kalpana. Kshara karma is important among all the "Anushastra karma". It is multifunctional hence advised in several urdhwajatrugata vikaras according to stage and predominance of Doshas. Kshara application is the best one, taking into consideration of its convenience, easy adaptability, cost-effectiveness, and curative. It also has mild postoperative pain, no bleeding, minimum hospitalization and fewer chances of recurrence. The correct way of adopting the procedure has been considered as wealth and a strong weapon in the Ayurvedic pharmacopeia. There is a need of adopting such Para surgical procedures, doing research works, and popularize it in Shalakya practice for effective management and cure of the urdhawavikaras.