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@article{187960,
        author = {Dr. Shraddha Ramesh Halge and Dr.Harshal Sabale},
        title = {AGNIKARMA: A REVIEW OF HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVES, INSTRUMENTAL DIVERSITY, AND CONTEMPORARY APPLICATIONS},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2025},
        volume = {12},
        number = {7},
        pages = {4302-4306},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=187960},
        abstract = {Agnikarma, a quintessential para-surgical procedure (Anushastra) in Ayurveda, utilizes therapeutic heat application to treat benign, chronic, and recalcitrant disorders. Ancient scholars, particularly Sushruta, extolled Agnikarma as superior to surgical excision (Shastra) and alkali therapy (Kshara) due to its potential to prevent disease recurrence and its efficacy in curing conditions incurable by other pharmacological means. This review critically examines the historical foundations of Agnikarma, tracing its codified methodology in the Sushruta Samhita, including the classification of burns and specific indications based on Dosha involvement.A significant portion of this paper analyzes the instrumental diversity (Dahanopakarana) inherent in the practice. Classical texts prescribe a spectrum of cauterization materials—ranging from Pippali (long pepper), Guda (jaggery), and Sneha (oils) for superficial cutaneous lesions, to various metallic probes (Shalakas) for deep-seated pathologies affecting muscle, tendon, and bone. This stratification demonstrates an ancient yet advanced understanding of thermal conductivity and tissue sensitivity relative to the depth of pathology.Furthermore, the review bridges historical concepts with contemporary clinical applications. It evaluates modern adaptations of Agnikarma in managing musculoskeletal disorders (such as osteoarthritis and sciatica), dermatological conditions (corns and warts), and anorectal issues. By drawing parallels with modern thermal cautery and laser therapy, the paper elucidates the probable mechanism of action, involving the modulation of pain pathways and improvement of local microcirculation. We conclude that the standardization of Agnikarma instruments and protocols is essential for integrating this potent, minimally invasive modality into evidence-based pain management and surgical practice.},
        keywords = {Agnikarma, Ayurveda, Para-surgical procedure, Thermal Cauterization, Dahanopakarana, Sushruta Samhita, Pain Management, Musculoskeletal Disorders.},
        month = {December},
        }