An Ayurvedic appraisal on Ahiputana w.s.r. to Diaper Rash - A Case Study

Abstract

Many disorders during Balyavastha are caused due to vigilant caring of parents and Ahiputana is one such commonly seen condition. The calculated risk of developing diaper rash is 1 in 4 infant and the peak incidence is found in between 9 to 12 months. Ahiputana is a Kapha Rakta Pradhana Kshudraroga, caused due to unhygienic conditions such as improper cleaning after defecation and urination, presenting with Kandu and oozing blisters at perianal region, forming Vrana. Diaper rash is similar condition in contemporary science reported due to improper toilet training, hygiene and child rearing practices in day to day life. Soiled or wet laden diapers that are left for too long, results in sore and scaly rashes due to Candida albicans. This life style disorder occurring at infancy has cure through Ayurveda via Bahyaparimarjana and Antahparimarjana Chikitsa as explained in different classics. Different Lepa prayoga has extensive result over the same. Zinc oxide is used commonly in treating diaper rashes in contemporary science. Many formulations mentioned in classics yields better effect over diaper rash. The present study attempts to highlight the concept and treatment of Ahiputana in Bala caused due to life style hazard.