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@article{193798,
        author = {Dr Shinitha PV and Prof Dr Mahesh Vyas and Dr Kamal Kumar and Dr Jiji U Nair},
        title = {Karmaja Vyadhi with Special Reference to Shwitra: An Ayurvedic Perspective – A Review},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2026},
        volume = {12},
        number = {10},
        pages = {1253-1261},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=193798},
        abstract = {Ayurveda, the traditional system of Indian medicine, provides a holistic understanding of health and disease that integrates physical, psychological, environmental and spiritual dimensions. One of the distinctive concepts described in Ayurvedic literature is Karmaja Vyadhi, referring to diseases that arise as a consequence of past deeds (Purvajanma Karma). These diseases are believed to manifest when the accumulated effects of actions performed in previous lives become dominant and are not easily explained solely by dietary or lifestyle factors. Among the disorders mentioned in this context, Shwitra, a type of skin disease explained under kushta chikitsa is frequently cited as having karmic involvement in its pathogenesis. Shwitra is characterized by the appearance of depigmented white patches on the skin due to impairment of pigmentation. Classical Ayurvedic texts attribute its causation to a combination of factors including Viruddha Ahara (incompatible diet), improper lifestyle practices, vitiation of Tridosha and the influence of Papakarma (immoral or unethical deeds). From a modern biomedical perspective, Shwitra closely resembles vitiligo, a chronic depigmentary disorder associated with autoimmune destruction of melanocytes, genetic predisposition, oxidative stress and neurogenic factors. The concept of Karmaja Vyadhi provides a unique philosophical and etiological framework that extends beyond purely physiological explanations of disease. Ayurveda proposes that certain conditions may arise even in the absence of obvious causative factors due to the influence of past karmic actions. This perspective emphasizes the interconnectedness of moral conduct, mental health and physical wellbeing. In addition to pharmacological and detoxification therapies, Ayurvedic management of such diseases often includes Daivavyapashraya Chikitsa, which incorporates spiritual practices, ethical behaviour, charity and rituals intended to neutralize the effects of past karma. This review aims to explore the concept of Karmaja Vyadhi in classical Ayurvedic literature with special reference to Shwitra. The etiological factors, pathogenesis, classical descriptions and therapeutic approaches described in Ayurvedic texts are analysed and correlated with contemporary biomedical understanding of vitiligo. By integrating classical knowledge with modern perspectives, this review highlights the holistic approach of Ayurveda in understanding complex dermatological disorders and underscores the relevance of ethical and lifestyle factors in disease manifestation and management},
        keywords = {Karmaja Vyadhi, Shwitra, Vitiligo, Kushta, Ayurveda, Daivavyapashraya Chikitsa},
        month = {March},
        }