A critical review of Dhoopan karma in Ayurveda and Dhoopana of an Ayurvedic herbomineral formulation Yavasarshapadi churna in context of sterilization.

Dhoopana Karma is classical remedy mentioned in various Ayurvedic scriptures to maintain disease free and hygienic environment in the world. As per Ayurvedic scriptures Dhoopana is indicated for Rakshoghna Karma which means killing of disease producing microorganisms. Hence, it plays key role in prevention and cure of various infectious diseases.A similar process called fumigation is one of best and fastest method to maintain asepsis, antisepsis in wards and operation theatres of hospitals.Additionally, this study comprises critical literary review of herbomineral formulation named Yavasarshapadi Choorna which is indicated in form of incense for Dhoopana karma. It is indicated in Ayurvedic scripture Charaka Samhita in chapter Jatisutriya Sharir Adhyaya of Sharir Sthana. It was reviewed in context of sterilization activity to maintain asepsis and antisepsis. Specifically, it is indicated for fumigation of cloths and belongings of post-natal period of Women and that of the New born, Drug preparation room, New born care room, Surgical Procedure room modern surgery, traditional operation theatre sterilization was done by formalin gas fumigation over many decades which is found to have carcinogenic effect over human lives. Ayurvedic modality named Dhoopan a was undertaken in current study as it is a safe and healthy alternative for sterilization.It overcomes harmful effects caused by modern sterilization method i.e. Formalin gas fumigation which is need of an hour. The Analytical study of antimicrobial and antifungal effect of various Ayurvedic Dhoopana Dravyas is the need of the hour along with preclinical and clinical study to verify Sterilization activity of various Ayurvedic Dhoopana Dravyas.