Conceptual Study of Twak Sharir w.s.r. to Padadari

Abstract

Twak (skin) is one of the most important organs (Dyanendriya) which receives sense/stimuli through Adhisthanas. Twak generates anticipated response against the stimuli like; Sparsh (touch). Twacha (skin) not only helps to understand touch sensation but it also covers whole body, protect from shock and performs functioning thermostat through sweat channels (Swedvahi Strotas). The pore present in skin helps in the hair nourishment and detoxification process. It is believed that each and every components of skin having anatomical and physiological importance. Padadari is one of the commonest and most negligible disease. It is observed that people are least bothered about their feet though feet bear the whole body weight. In India 80% of population live in rural area. Most of them work in farms in wet soil and water also. So incidence of cracking the skin of the foot is very common. For management of Padadari knowledge of skin is very important. All of Aacharyas explain briefly about Twak sharir, in this research article we try to focus on Twak Sharir.

Introduction

Skin as a Reflection of Health

• The skin reflects overall internal health and is frequently affected by lifestyle, pollution, stress, and poor diet.

• It plays a key role in physical and mental well-being, acting as a barrier against various environmental injuries.

Ayurvedic View of Skin (Twak)

• Skin is one of the five sensory organs (Gyanindriyas), responsible for touch (Sparsh Gyan).

• It is formed during early fetal development from maternal (Matruja) and spiritual (Atmaja) elements.

• According to Ayurveda, the skin is composed of seven layers, each associated with specific thickness, characteristics, and related diseases.

• The health of the skin is influenced by Tridoshas:

  • Vyan Vayu – governs touch and circulation.

  • Bhrajaka Pitta – affects skin color and luster.

  • Kapha – in excess, leads to whiteness.

• Related Strotas (channels) include Mamsavaha, Swedavaha, Rasavaha, and Raktavaha, all of which influence skin health and function.

Functions of Skin (Twak Karma)

• Provides protection, sensory function, regulation of body temperature (through sweat), absorption of medications, and gives the body its appearance.

Padadari (Cracked Feet) in Ayurveda

• Padadari is a common foot skin disorder, often recurring and chronic, especially on the soles.

• It is caused by vitiation of Vata Dosha, leading to dryness, pain, and fissures.

• Correlates with the modern condition of heel fissures, which may bleed or become infected in severe cases.

• Contributing factors include:

  • Prolonged standing, barefoot walking, open footwear, dehydration, diabetes, poor circulation, skin diseases (e.g., eczema), medications, and climate changes.

Modern Medical View of Skin

• Skin has two major layers:

  • Epidermis – outer layer with five sub-layers; contains keratinocytes, melanocytes, Langerhans cells, and Merkel cells.

  • Dermis – inner layer with connective tissue, blood vessels, nerves, and glands; includes the papillary and reticular dermis.

• Skin functions in protection, sensation, immunity, and temperature regulation.

Conclusion

Padadari is caused due to Vataprakopa Hetu, Atichankramana and Ruksha Guna. In the initial stage of the disease patient does not have any complaints. But as the disease progresses, it can lead to severe symptoms as acute pain and even bleeding from cracks because of this extra attention on skin of feet is very important.

References

[1] Textbook of Anatomy, Abdomen and lower limb, vol-II, by Vishram Singh, Published by RELX India pvt. Ltd. Second edition 2014, reprinted 2017, chapter no. 10, Sole of foot p-420. [2] Kaviraj Dr.Ambikadattashashri. Sushruta Samhita, with Hindi translation of text. Reprint- 2008. Varanasi: Chaukhamba Sanskrit Sansthan, Purvardha-Nidan Sthana, Chapter-13, Sloka-3. [3] Dr. P.V. Sharma, Sushrut Samhita of Sushruta with Nibandhasangraha commentary, Varanasi, Chaukhambha Orientalia, sixth edition 1997, Nidanasthana, chapter 13, Verse 29, p. 321 [4] Prof. Yadunandan Upadhyaya, Madhava Nidana of Sri Madhavakara, Varanasi, Chaukhambha Prakashana, Reprint 2008, Chapter Kshudraroga Nidan, Verse 25 p. 239 [5] http://www.epodiatry.com/cracked_heels.htm [6] http://www.peopleshealth.com/cracked_heels.htm [7] http://www.elitepodiatry.com/cracked-heels-heel-fissures/ [8] Dr. Brahmananda Tripathi. Charaka Samhita of Agnivesha, Vol-II, Varanasi, Chaukhambha Surbharti Prakashana, Reprint 2011, Chikitsasthanam, Chapter 15, Verse 17, p.553

Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Dr. Ganesh J Dolas, Dr. Vinod M Choudhari, Dr. Shilpa Varade, Dr. Prashant Raut, Dr. Pooja Golhar, Ganesh J. Dolas. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.