Krimi; Worm Infestation in URDHWAJATRUGATA Roga: An Ayurvedic Review with Contemporary Correlation

Abstract

Introduction: Microorganisms, trauma, an improper lifestyle, an unhygienic diet, and autoimmune disorders are among the factors associated with disease. Pioneers of Ayurvedic literature have mentioned twenty types of Krimi (worms or Microorganisms). “Bahya Krimi and Abhyantara Krimi are the two major categories. Purishaja, Kaphaja and Shleshmaja Krimi are responsible for pathological manifestation of disease. Out of them few are responsible for the disease or deformity of the organ related to Urdhwajatru (organ above the clavicle). Acharya has described Krimi in Netra, Siro, Kapala, Karna, Nasa and Mukha-Gata Roga. The Kushta (Hansen’s disease), caused by Krimi is a major contributor to deformities and diseases of the Shalakya Tantra. The specific Krimi named Sirshada, Dantada, Majjada are included in the literature by different Acharya. Discussion- Based on the clinical features, the Maggots or Larvae may be correlated with the Krimi of Raktaja Pratishyaya, Dushtapratishyaya, Pratishyaya and Arunshika. The Deformity caused by the Krimi to the Tarunasthi (cartilage) of Nose and Ears are because of the Hansen’s disease. The Krimi in Krimija Sirashoola may be correlated with parasitic infections of the brain (e.g., neurocysticercosis). The Loiasis and Parasitic Blepharitis by Phthiriasis Palpebrarum can be correlated to the Krimi in Netra as seen in Krimigranthi. Conclusion: The Krimi are nothing but the visible or invisible parasites of the Human body. The visible parasites are Jantumata, Maggots or larvae, originated by the vector flies. And the invisible Krimi or parasites are Raktaja Krimi or other Microorganisms. Krimi described in KrimijaSirashoola may be compared with parasitic infections affecting the central nervous system, such as neurocysticercosis.