Role of Siravedha and Adjunct Ayurvedic Therapies in the Management of Venous Leg Ulcer (VLU): A Single Case Report

Abstract

Venous Leg Ulcers (VLUs) develop as a complication (C6) of chronic superficial venous insufficiency (SVI). Multiple causes like, valvular incompetence, lack of pumping function of calf muscles, lymphatic overload and oedema hampers the wound closure. This case report presents 49-year-old male butcher with five years’ history of non-healing venous leg ulcer on the left gaiter zone (Medial aspect) limb. The case was managed by applying conventional wound care with Ayurvedic therapies, including Panchvalkala Kwatha wound wash, Apamarga Kshara Taila local wound dressing, Nadi Swedana (hot fomentation by vapour of hot water), and weekly Siravedha (therapeutic bloodletting venepuncture), with adjuvant drug like Haritaki Churna, Kaishor Guggulu. Complete healing was achieved by day 63. The Wound Area reduction (WAR) was noted 0.269 cm sq./day and time taken for Wound area reduction was 3.705 days/cm², indicating accelerated recovery. Siravedha helped by de-loading the Vata vitiated Rakta by reducing oxidative stress, improved microcirculation, and promoted tissue regeneration. Apamarga Kshara Taila dressing showed wound debriding effect.