Role of Swalpa Khadir Vatika in the Management of Mukhgatavrana WSR Aphthous Ulcer – An Ayurvedic Clinical Trial Study

Recurrent Aphthous stomatitis (“canker sores”) is a common, painful oral condition often correlated with Ayurvedic Mukhagata Vraṇa (Mukhapāka), a Pitta-dominant inflammatory lesion of the oral mucosa. Conventional therapies (e.g. topical steroids) provide symptomatic relief but may have limitations. Ayurvedic formulations like Khadīra (Acacia catechu) preparations are traditionally indicated for oral ulcers, promoting healing and Pitta-pacification. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the standardized Ayurvedic formulation “Swalpa Khadir Vatika” (SKV) for its clinical efficacy in Mukhagata Vraṇa (aphthous ulcer). A single-arm, open-label clinical trial was conducted in 50 patients (age 18–60) with recurring mild-to-moderate aphthous ulcers (Mukhagata Vraṇa). After obtaining IEC clearance and CTRI registration, patients received SKV orally (1 tablet four times daily) for 7 days. Standardized assessment scales for subjective symptoms (pain, burning, impact on activities, ulcer frequency) and objective findings (ulcer count, size, duration, lesion site, and clinical appearance) were used (Tables 1–2). Overall response was graded as good, marked, moderate or poor (75–100%, 50–74%, 25–49%, <25% improvement). Paired t-tests analyzed pre- versus post-treatment changes (p<0.05 significant). SKV was well-tolerated by all patients. By Day 7, a significant reduction in subjective scores (pain, burning, functional impairment) was observed and ulcers healed faster than baseline). All objective parameters (ulcer number, size, duration) showed statistically significant improvement (p<0.05), with ulcer healing typically complete by the 14-day follow-up. In this pilot evaluation, standardized Swalpa Khadir Vatika showed encouraging clinical efficacy in aphthous ulcers (Mukhagata Vraṇa), with significant pain relief and accelerated healing. These results support its traditional use and merit further controlled studies.