A Comparative Clinical Trial on Efficacy of Haridra Hingu Lepam Against Sigrupunarnavadi Lepam in Vrischika Damsa

Scorpions are venomous arthropods found on all continents except Antarctica. Although their venom is highly potent, stings typically involve small quantities and cause localized symptoms such as acute pain, inflammation, edema, and redness. According to Ayurveda, vrischika (scorpion) is classified as a type of keeta (insect/arthropod). This study is a comparative clinical trial designed to assess the efficacy of Haridrahingu lepa in the trial group versus Sigrupunarnavadi choorna lepa in the standard group with Dasanga Gulika administered internally in both groups. This randomized comparative clinical trial employed a sample of 40 participants (n=20 per group) aged 18-60 years diagnosed with vrischika visha. Exclusion criteria encompassed previous therapeutic interventions from alternative medical systems, systemic complications including dyspnea and anaphylactic reactions, pregnancy, lactation, and concurrent systemic pathologies. Baseline assessments were documented using standardized case proformas. Group 1 received Haridrahingu lepa while Group 2 received Sigrupunarnavadi lepa (topical application thrice daily), with concurrent administration of Dasanga Gulika (oral, thrice daily) for 48 hours. Symptomatic evaluations were conducted at baseline, post-intervention, and 96-hour follow-up. The outcome variables – oedema, pain, erythema, burning sensation – were assessed for the change in the mean score values. Data were analysed statistically using Friedman’s test and Mann-Whitney U Test. The result obtained was significant in relieving the cardinal symptoms of vrischika visha. The overall findings indicate that both treatments demonstrated individual significance in managing vrischika visha, with Haridrahingu lepa proving equally effective as Sigrupunarnavadi lepa in reducing the signs and symptoms.