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@article{206717,
        author = {Dr.Swapnil Ganpat Godase and Dr. Vikramsing Chavan and Dr.Jayashree Katole and Dr.Ashish Keche},
        title = {AYURVEDIC TOPICAL MANAGEMENT OF MUKHDUSHIKA (ACNE VULGARIS): A COMPARATIVE REVIEW OF LODHRADI LEPA AND SIDDHARTHAKADI LEPA},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2026},
        volume = {13},
        number = {2},
        pages = {4104-4109},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=206717},
        abstract = {Mukhdushika, one of the Kshudra Rogas described in Ayurvedic classics, closely resembles Acne Vulgaris in its clinical presentation. It is characterized by Pidika (papules or pustules) predominantly affecting the face and is associated with pain, inflammation, discoloration, and occasional scarring. In contemporary dermatology, acne vulgaris is one of the most prevalent chronic inflammatory disorders of the pilosebaceous unit, affecting nearly 80–90% of adolescents and young adults. Although conventional treatment modalities such as topical retinoids, antibiotics, and hormonal therapy are effective, their long-term use is frequently associated with adverse effects, antimicrobial resistance, and recurrence. Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to Mukhdushika by addressing the underlying Dosha imbalance, particularly the vitiation of Kapha, Vata, and Rakta, through internal purification and external therapeutic measures. Among these, Lepa Chikitsa occupies an important place owing to its local anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, wound-healing, and complexion-enhancing properties. Lodhradi Lepa and Siddharthakadi Lepa are two classical Ayurvedic formulations extensively employed in the management of Mukhdushika. Their constituent drugs possess Kashaya, Tikta, and Katu Rasa, Laghu and Ruksha Guna, and exhibit Kapha-Pitta Shamana, Rakta Prasadana, Shothahara, Kandughna, Krimighna, and Varnya actions, thereby targeting multiple aspects of acne pathogenesis. This review critically explores the etiopathogenesis of Mukhdushika from both Ayurvedic and modern perspectives and comprehensively discusses the pharmacological attributes, probable mechanisms of action, therapeutic efficacy, and comparative clinical relevance of Lodhradi Lepa and Siddharthakadi Lepa. The review highlights the potential of these formulations as safe, economical, and effective topical therapies for acne vulgaris while emphasizing the need for well-designed randomized controlled clinical trials to establish stronger scientific evidence for their routine clinical application.},
        keywords = {Mukhdushika, Acne vulgaris, Lodhradi Lepa, Siddharthakadi Lepa, Lepa Chikitsa, Ayurveda, Kshudra Roga, Topical therapy, Kapha-Pitta Shamana, Herbal dermatology},
        month = {July},
        }