A bstract Background (Scope and Relevance): Laṅghana (~depleting therapy) has been an integral part of Indian medical heritage, and we even find references in the Purāṇas and Āyurvedic texts suggesting its role in disease prevention and treatment. Traditionally practiced in ways by fasting, purification, and controlled intake, Laṅghana is very well known for its detoxifying effects. Āma formation, which results from weak Agni (~digestive factor), is considered a key pathogenic factor in inflammatory skin disorders. Modern evidence has shown that cytokine-mediated inflammatory pathways act as the main part in the pathophysiology of these conditions. However, in spite of classical indications, the specific effect of Laṅghana modalities on cytokine behavior in skin diseases remains insufficiently explored. Objectives: To map evidence on the modulatory effects of Laṅghana interventions on cytokine profiles in inflammatory skin diseases, integrating classical Āyurvedic concepts with contemporary immunology. Materials and Methods: Literature search was done from PubMed and Scopus (2000–2024) with combined Laṅghana modalities, Āyurvedic therapies, inflammatory skin diseases, and cytokines. English-language article, experimental, clinical, and review studies reporting cytokine outcomes were included and synthesized narratively. Results: Thirty-five studies were included. Across many study designs, Laṅghana -based interventions, including Śodhana procedures and non-pharmacological modalities, were associated with reductions in pro-inflammatory cytokines and increases in anti-inflammatory cytokines. These findings were mostly seen in psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and related dermatoses. Conclusion: Laṅghana therapies have shown immunomodulatory potential by regulating cytokines. Preclinical evidence supports anti-inflammatory mechanisms, but rigorous clinical trials are needed to confirm efficacy and clarify pathways.
Deliwala et al. (Tue,) studied this question.