A literary review article on Agnikarma in Kamala

Jaundice is defined as a yellowish discoloration of skin, mucous membrane and sclera due to the deposition of bile pigment (bilirubin). It can be classified as pre-hepatic, hepatic and post hepatic jaundice. The causes of various forms of Jaundice are either acquired or congenital. The incidence of jaundice in India is 2.37-3.15 per 1000 population. Varied reasons result in jaundice. Some of them are medically managed whereas some require surgical interventions. The underlying causative factors and clinical manifestations in such conditions are similar to Kamala described in Ayurveda. Various treatment protocols have been mentioned by various Acharya in their respective Samhita. One among them is a handbook for an Ayurvedic physician from Andhra Pradesh, written by Basavaraju named as Basavarajiyam where he has mentioned Agnikarma in Kamala Vyadhi which is a unique practice that might help for early recovery of patients. Another famous book on Viddha and Agnikarma Chikitsa by Dr.R.B. Gogate from Maharashtra also mentions about similar kind of treatment. By considering all these, the present article is aimed at understanding the textual references of Agnikarma in Kamala.