Role of kshara (an alkali preparation) in wound healing with special reference to cervical erosion

Abstract

Cervical erosion is caused by the replacement of the stratified squamous epithelium of the ectocervix with the endocervical columnar epithelium. In Ayurvedic classics, it can be co-related to garbhashayagrivagatavrana. Its management mainly includes destruction of overgrown epithelium by different techniques has its own limitations and side effects. Further observing its prevalence there is a requirement for a treatment modality which is more efficient and cost-effective. Kshara which possesses lekhana (scrapping), vrana-shodhana (wound cleansing), and ropana (wound healing) properties as described in Ayurveda, provides a scientific background of the therapeutic application in the management. Different review works revealed the potential use of kshara on wound healing due to its alkalinity which maintain the body pH within the normal range and thus maintains different cellular and extracellular function. Therefore, kshara is found to be an important preparation that has been investigated for its gynecological uses by different scholars.