A Randomized Comparative Clinical Study to Determine the Efficacy of Dadrukandvadi Lepa and Durvadi Lepa in Dadru

Dadru is a common skin condition in Ayurveda, characterized by Kandu (itching), Raga (erythema), Pidaka (eruption), and Utsanna mandala (elevated lesions), clinically correlating with superficial fungal infections like Tinea (dermatophytosis). This study aimed to comparatively evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of two classical topical formulations, Dadrukandvadi Lepa and Durvadi Lepa. A single-blind, randomized comparative clinical study was conducted on 60 subjects diagnosed with Dadru. Subjects were assigned via block randomization into two equal groups (n=30). Group A received Dadrukandvadi Lepa, and Group B received Durvadi Lepa. Both formulations were applied externally with Takra for 20 days, with evaluations at baseline, 10th, and 20th days. Both groups demonstrated highly significant clinical improvements (p < 0.001) across all parameters. Group A achieved its highest relief in Rookshata (83.9%) and Kandu (76.0%). Group B achieved outstanding responses in Daha (70.5%), Raga (70.4%), and Utsanna Mandala (69.5%). Inter-group analysis showed Raga was the only parameter with a statistically significant difference (p = 0.0379), demonstrating Durvadi Lepa's superior anti-erythema efficacy. Overall mean therapeutic improvement was highly comparable (64.72% in Group A; 64.41% in Group B). Both topical interventions are highly safe, cost-effective, and efficacious. Dadrukandvadi Lepa provides relatively superior action for Kapha-Pitta dominant presentations (pronounced itching and dryness), while Durvadi Lepa is highly indicated when Pitta-Kapha dominates (marked erythema and burning).