Comparative Clinical efficacy of Jambu (Eugenia jambolana Lam.) and Kshudra jambu (Syzygium caryophyllatum (L.) Alston.) in Youvana pidaka

Aims: To compare the clinical efficacy of mature leaf of Jambu (Eugenia jambolana Lam.) and Kshudra Jambu (Syzygium caryophyllatum (L.) Alston.) in the disease Youvana pidaka (Acne vulgaris like skin manifestation).Introduction: Jambu is said to be two varieties Raja and Kshudra based on overall morphology.These two are said to have same properties, are substituted by each other and their leaf are used for the management of Youvana pidaka in folklore practice.Methods: 30 subjects having signs and symptoms of Youvana pidaka were divided into two groups of 15 each. Group A was administered Jambu patra churna (leaf powder) orally and lepa(face pack) externally once a day and Group B was administered Kshudra Jambu patra churna orally and lepa externally once a day, for a duration of 28 days. Results were assessed using objective parameters like global acne grading scale, extent of lesion, size of pidaka (lesion), healing of pidaka, number of comedones, papule, pustules and nodules, and subjective parameters like itching and srava (discharge) of pidaka. Results were interpreted using suitable statistical tests. Important observation: Jambu and Kshudra Jambu showed highly significant improvement in parameters like GAGS score, number of comedones, size of pidaka, and extent of lesion. Kshudra Jambu was slightly more effective in action than Jambu, but it was statistically insignificant. Results: Jambu and Kshudra Jambu are almost equally effective in the management of Youvana pidaka, but Kshudra Jambu has a slightly higher efficacy.