Rachanatmak and Kriyatmak Review of Twacha in Ayurveda with Reference to Skin

Abstract

Ayurveda, the world's utmost ancient science of life, focuses on preventing disease  along with treating it. In Ayurveda, Twacha is described as outermost covering and  protective layer of the body. Acharya Charaka describes Twacha is the Mula of  Mamsavaha Srotas and Upadhatu of Mamsa Dhatu. Twacha is the Adhishthana of  Sparshanendriya. Ayurveda describes six or seven distinct layers of the skin, each  with its own structure and function. The layers are designed in such a way that each  one supports the layer above it. In Ayurvedic classics, various opinions regarding  Twacha Uttapati, Twacha Stara and associated disorders are mentioned The seven  layers of Twacha proclaimed by Sushruta, corresponds perfectly with the seven skin  layers, accepted by western medicine also. Acharya Charaka describes six layers of  Twacha and named first two layers while remaining four layers have been described  in the term of disease in particular layer. Twak is a reflector of the total health and  well-being of an individual. The incidence and impact of diseases of skin are  increasing day by day. Disease conditions of Twak cause physical, mental, social and  spiritual disharmonies in a person. Hence the necessity of detailed study and analysis  of the concept of the Twacha, its Rachanatmak and Kriyatmak aspect is of utmost  importance and immense necessary.