SUCCESSFUL HEALING OF A CHRONIC DIABETIC FOOT ULCER THROUGH LEECH APPLICATION AND APAMARGA KSHARA TAILA WITH ADJUVANT AYURVEDA: A CASE REPORT

Introduction: Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are a serious complication of diabetes mellitus, often leading to poor healing and increased amputation risk due to vascular and neuropathic compromise. 70-year-old male with a Case Details: chronic non-healing DFU of five months' duration, previously unresponsive to conventional treatment and advised for amputation. The ulcer presented with necrotic tissue, foul discharge, and signs of peripheral vascular compromise. Ayurvedic treatment was initiated with dietary modifications, local application of Tankan Churna and Apamarga Kshara Taila, oral administration of Haritaki powder, Pippali powder, and Sanjivani Vati, alongside Panchavalkala Kwatha irrigation and Jalauka Avacharana (leech therapy). Result: Progressive wound improvement was observed with complete healing by the sixth week, indicated by healthy granulation and tissue integrity. This outcome may be attributed to the wound debridement and healing-enhancing properties of Kshara Taila, anti-inflammatory and detoxifying action of oral drugs, and improved microcirculation from leech therapy. Conclusion:The case highlights the potential of integrative Ayurvedic protocols in managing chronic DFUs and preventing amputation. Further clinical studies are warranted to validate efficacy and establish standard Ayurvedic treatment guidelines for DFUs.