MANAGEMENT OF CHARMAKILA (WARTS) BY AGNIKARMA USING TAMRA SHALAKA WITH EXTERNAL APPLICATION OF JATHYADI GHRITA: A SINGLE CASE STUDY

Warts (Verruca vulgaris) are benign hyperkeratotic proliferations of the skin caused by infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). They may present as single or multiple lesions with rough, papillary, or cauliflower-like surfaces and are commonly seen on fingers, hands, feet, and other exposed parts of the body. Cutaneous warts are a common dermatological problem, with an estimated prevalence of about 7–12% in the general population, and they are frequently associated with cosmetic concern, functional discomfort, and a tendency for recurrence after treatment. In conventional medicine, a wide range of treatment modalities such as topical keratolytics, cryotherapy, electrocautery, laser therapy, and surgical excision are available; however, recurrence, repeated sittings, local discomfort, and cost remain important practical limitations. In Ayurveda, warts can be correlated with Charmakila, a condition described under Kshudra Rogas. Classical Ayurvedic texts explain Charmakila as a hard, nail-like growth over the skin caused predominantly by vitiation of Vata and Kapha Doshas. Among the parasurgical procedures described in Ayurveda, Agnikarma is considered highly effective because of its rapid action, precise local effect, and reduced chance of recurrence. The present single case study reports a 27-year-old male patient who attended the Kayachikitsa OPD of Dr. B.R.K.R Government Ayurvedic College and Hospital, Hyderabad, with multiple warts over the fingers of both hands. The patient had no comorbidities, no significant family history, and normal vital parameters. The lesions were managed by Agnikarma using Tamra Shalaka, followed by daily local application of Jatyadi Ghrita as Ropana Dravya. After the procedure, gradual shrinkage, necrosis of wart tissue, and progressive healing were observed. Complete healing occurred without infection, discharge, or significant complication, and no recurrence was noted during follow-up. This case indicates that Agnikarma with Tamra Shalaka, supported by topical Jatyadi Ghrita, is a safe, cost-effective, minimally invasive, and clinically useful Ayurvedic approach in the management of Charmakila (warts).