Agnikarma in Granthi (Sebaceous Cyst) Over Karnapali: A Single Case Study

In Ayurveda, Granthi is attributed to vitiated Kapha dosha. It can be correlated with Medoja Granthi, characterized by symptoms such as being snigdha (unctuous), mrudu (soft), chala (movable), having sita-asita strava (discharge), tvaka savarna (skin-colored), and niruja shotha (painless swelling). In modern science, this can be correlated with a sebaceous cyst. According to Acharya Sushruta, Granthi roga can be treated by Agnikarma (Su. Su. 12/10). Acharya Sushruta also states that Agnikarma is a superior parasurgical procedure in Ayurveda, as diseases treated by it usually do not relapse (Su. Su. 12/3). A 54-year-old male patient visited the outpatient department of Panchakarma with a 2-3 year history of a non-inflammatory cystic swelling over the left earlobe. The patient had taken some oral medications and local applications 2 years ago but did not experience any effect. Concerned about cosmetic appearance, the patient consulted an Ayurvedic hospital for better management. Agnikarma, a superior parasurgical procedure for Kapha dosha-related diseases, was performed to remove the Granthi. After treatment, the cyst was completely cured without any scarring after 6 weeks. The patient had no recurrence. This case demonstrates the advantages of Agnikarma in treating Granthi.