Management of Dadru Kushta (Tinea Cruris) – A Case Report

Abstract

Dadru Kushta is one of the varieties of Kushta described in Ayurvedic literature and is mainly caused by the vitiation of Kapha and Pitta Doshas. It is characterized by symptoms such as kandu (severe itching), raga (redness), pidaka (eruptions), utsanna mandala (circular elevated patches), and scaling of the skin. Due to similarity in clinical presentation, Dadru Kushta can be correlated with dermatophytic fungal infections in modern medicine. Sedentary lifestyle, improper dietary habits, excessive intake of viruddha ahara, and poor hygiene are considered important causative factors. In this case report, a patient presenting with classical signs and symptoms of Dadru Kushta was treated according to Ayurvedic principles. The treatment was planned on the basis of Dosha predominance and involved Shamana Chikitsa with Ayurvedic formulations including Swambhu guggul, haridrakhand, Gandhak Rasayan, Khadirarishta, and sadhya virechan with avipattikar churna, along with external application of shatdhout ghrit. Dietary regulations and lifestyle modifications were also advised to avoid recurrence. Marked improvement was observed in itching, erythema, scaling, and size of lesions after completion of therapy. The study demonstrates that Ayurvedic management focusing on Dosha Shamana, Rakta Shodhana, and proper Pathya-Apathya can effectively manage Dadru Kushta and improve the patient’s quality of life without adverse effects.