Healing does not end when a wound closes. In fact, the most important phase begins after the wound has healed. This phase is called after-care and long-term recovery.
Acharya Sushruta understood that without proper care, a healed wound can reopen, leave thick scars, or give long-term complications. Therefore, he described special methods to protect healed tissue, strengthen the body, and prevent future problems.
These principles are still followed in modern hospitals today.
Rasayana – Rejuvenation Therapy
Rasayana means rejuvenating and strengthening the inner body.
It helps by:
- Improving immunity
- Strengthening tissues
- Preventing recurrence of disease
Modern example:
Use of antioxidants, immunity boosters, multivitamins, and wellness therapies.
Vajikarana – Strength and Vitality Therapy
Vajikarana focuses on restoring strength and energy after illness.
It is useful when:
- The body has become weak after surgery
- Fatigue is persistent
- Muscles feel tired
Modern equivalent:
Post-operative nutritional supplements and physiotherapy.
Samrakshana – Protection of Healed Area
Samrakshana means protecting the healed wound from re-injury.
This is achieved by:
- Covering the scar
- Avoiding pressure over healed areas
- Maintaining cleanliness
Modern practice:
Scar creams, silicone gel sheets, and wound-protective dressings.
Punarnavikarana – Tissue Regeneration
This therapy focuses on regenerating and renewing tissues.
It helps in:
- Improving skin texture
- Strengthening muscle layers
- Preventing tissue weakness
Modern science comparison:
Regenerative medicine, stem-cell research, and tissue therapy.
Upadrava Chikitsa – Management of Complications
Sometimes, healing may have complications like:
- Infection
- Swelling
- Painful scars
Upadrava Chikitsa means timely management of such complications.
Modern parallel:
Early treatment of wound infection, abscess, or scar complications.
Durgandha Nashana – Removal of Foul Odor
Bad smell from wounds can indicate infection or tissue death.
Ancient methods used herbs and fumigation to remove foul smell.
Modern solution:
Use of deodorizing dressings and antimicrobial wound pads.
Margashodhana – Cleansing of Internal Body Channels
This process ensures proper:
- Circulation
- Lymphatic drainage
- Waste removal
Modern connection:
Detoxification methods and physiotherapy that improve circulation.
Prakopa Nashana – Preventing Recurrence of Disease
Ensures:
- Dosha balance (Ayurvedic concept)
- Stable immunity
- Prevention of wound reopening
Modern relevance:
Use of anti-inflammatory and preventive therapy post recovery.
Apatarpana – Reducing Excess Discharge
Used when:
- Fluid oozes from wounds
- There is swelling or exudate
Modern equivalent:
Use of absorbent dressings and compression therapy.
Yavagu – Light Diet During Recovery
Yavagu refers to light, digestible food during recovery.
Benefits:
- Reduces bloating
- Improves digestion
- Supports immunity
Modern example:
Soft diets, liquid diets, and nutrition support.
Pathya Ahara – Long-Term Healthy Diet
Focuses on:
- Balanced meals
- Adequate protein
- Fresh vegetables
Modern science supports:
Nutrition-guided recovery plans after surgery.
Why This Phase Is So Important
Even today, doctors strongly advise:
✅ Regular follow-ups
✅ Scar care
✅ Rehabilitation
✅ Lifestyle changes
These are exactly the principles described by Sushruta.
