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@article{193634,
        author = {Dr Pramod Chandra Dwivedi and Dr Subham Bhimrao Londhe and Dr Rahul Kumar},
        title = {Herbal Formulations in the Management of Acne Vulgaris (Mukhadushika): A Critical Appraisal},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2026},
        volume = {12},
        number = {10},
        pages = {1408-1414},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=193634},
        abstract = {Acne vulgaris is one of the most common chronic inflammatory disorders of the pilosebaceous unit, affecting approximately 80–90% of adolescents and a considerable proportion of adults worldwide. It manifests clinically with comedones, papules, pustules, nodules, and cystic lesions, predominantly involving the face, chest, and back. The pathogenesis of acne involves multiple interrelated mechanisms including excessive sebum production, follicular hyperkeratinization, colonization by Cutibacterium acnes, and inflammatory responses within the skin. Although modern dermatology offers various treatment modalities such as topical retinoids, antibiotics, hormonal therapy, and isotretinoin, these approaches are often associated with adverse effects, recurrence, antibiotic resistance, and limitations in long-term use. In Ayurveda, acne vulgaris is closely correlated with Mukhadushika or Yuvanapidika, which is described under Kshudra Roga in classical texts such as Sushruta Samhita and Ashtanga Hridaya. The disease is characterized by thorn-like eruptions on the face occurring during adolescence due to vitiation of Kapha, Vata, and Rakta, along with the involvement of Meda Dhatu and obstruction of Romakupa (hair follicles). Ayurvedic management focuses on correcting the underlying doshic imbalance, purifying the blood (Rakta Shodhana), detoxifying tissues, and restoring skin health through herbal medications, dietary regulation, and lifestyle modification. Herbal formulations play a pivotal role in the Ayurvedic management of Mukhadushika because of their antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, detoxifying, and immunomodulatory properties. Classical formulations such as Mahamanjishtadi Kwatha, Khadirarishta, Arogyavardhini Vati, Gandhak Rasayana, and Nimbadi Churna are traditionally used to purify blood, regulate metabolism, reduce inflammation, and improve skin complexion. These formulations contain medicinal plants like Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia), Neem (Azadirachta indica), Turmeric (Curcuma longa), Lodhra (Symplocos racemosa), and Sariva (Hemidesmus indicus), which have demonstrated significant dermatological benefits in both classical descriptions and modern pharmacological studies. The present review critically appraises the role of Ayurvedic herbal formulations in the management of acne vulgaris with reference to classical Ayurvedic literature and contemporary scientific evidence. The article explores the Ayurvedic concept of Mukhadushika, evaluates important herbal drugs and formulations used in its treatment, and discusses their mechanisms of action in relation to modern dermatological understanding. Integrating traditional Ayurvedic wisdom with modern scientific insights may provide safe, effective, and holistic therapeutic strategies for the management of acne vulgaris.},
        keywords = {Mukhadushika, Yuvanapidika, Acne vulgaris, Herbal formulations, Ayurveda, Skin disorders},
        month = {March},
        }