A Conceptual Study on Vicharchika With Special Reference to Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

Introduction: In ayurvedic literature, all skin disorders are described under kushta roga, which is broadly classified into two categories: Mahakushta and kshudrakushta. All ayurvedic acharyas have explained Vicharchika under kshudrakushta and is considered as Sadhya kushta. However, kushta is included among the Ashta mahagada, indicating its complex and challenging nature of management. Vicharchika can occur at any age but is more commonly observed in young individuals due to increased exposure to occupational and environmental factors along with mental stress. Factors such as consumption of junk food, irregular dietary habits, suppression of natural urges, use of cosmetics and chemical products, environmental pollution, stressful lifestyle and psychological disturbances play a significant role in increasing prevalence of vicharchika in the present era. Materials and Methods: Classical references related to vicharchika (eczema) were collected from the Brihatrayee, laghutrayee along with their commentaries, and other authoritative ayurvedic texts. Atopic dematitis (eczema) collected from modern texts along with journal and internal sources. Discussion: According to all Acharyas, kuşhta is a tridoshaja vyadhi with predominant involvement of rakta, thereby classified as a raktapradoshaja vikara. In all types of kushta roga, vitiation of rakta and pitta has been emphasized. Vicharchika is described as a chronic skin disorder and it is mentioned in all classical ayurvedic texts under Kshudra kushta. Conclusion: From a contemporary perspective, vicharchika can be interpreted with atopic dermatitis in its similarities in clinical features and presentation. Long-term conservative management is essential in both treatment modalities. In ayurveda, maha kuşhta and kshudra kushta represent broad clinical entities with well-defined principles of management, emphasizing shodhana, shamana and rasayana Chikitsa according to avastha of patient.