Kuṣṭha comprises a broad spectrum of dermatological disorders described in Ayurveda, involving tridoṣa vitiation along with impairment of rakta, tvak, māṃsa, and lasikā. Among these, rakta duṣṭi plays a major role in disease manifestation. The concept of dūṣya viṣa, representing endogenous toxic metabolites formed due to agnimandya and āma formation, provides an important explanation for chronic inflammatory pathology. These toxic metabolites accumulate within tissues and contribute to the development and persistence of skin disorders. Raktamokṣaṇa, one of the principal śodhana therapies, is specifically indicated in rakta-pradoṣaja vikāras and kuṣṭha. Classical Ayurvedic texts describe various methods of raktamokṣaṇa including sirāvyadha, jalaukāvacaraṇa, prachchhāna, and alābu karma. Among these, jalaukāvacaraṇa is considered especially beneficial in pitta-rakta dominant conditions due to its gentle and targeted action. This article explores the relationship between dūṣya viṣa, rakta duṣṭi, and kuṣṭha, while correlating Ayurvedic concepts with modern inflammatory and immunological mechanisms. The therapeutic role of raktamokṣaṇa is also discussed from both classical and contemporary perspectives.
Dr. Sagar Bansal* (Sat,) studied this question.