SKIN AS A TARGETED ROUTE FOR THERAPEUTIC DELIVERY IN PANCHAKARMA PROCEDURES

Skin, the largest organ of the body, acts as a physical shield, sensory interface, and regulator of temperature. In Ayurveda, Twak (skin) is recognized as one of the sense organs, composed of seven distinct layers, each prone to specific disorders. Panchakarma, a fundamental Ayurvedic therapeutic approach, involves preparatory steps (Purvakarma) such as Snehana (oleation) and Swedana (sudation), which often utilize the skin as a medium for drug delivery. The anatomical characteristics of the skin are relevant to Purvakarma, focusing on transdermal absorption pathways, including intercellular, intracellular, and shunt routes. The vascular network of the skin and metabolic process—particularly the roles of Bhrajaka Pitta and Dhatwagni—enable penetration, biotransformation, and systemic transport of medicinal agents. Modern pharmacology complements these Ayurvedic concepts, acknowledging the benefits of transdermal administration in bypassing first-pass metabolism, improving bioavailability, and achieving both localized and systemic effects. The success of external oleation therapies is influenced by the physicochemical nature of medicated oils, the duration of skin contact, and temperature during application. This reinforces the importance of the skin as an effective and targeted route for drug delivery.