AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF PSORIASIS (EKKUSHTHA) –A CASE STUDY
*Dr. Shital H. Thakrod, Dr. Sachin G. Tike, Dr. Monish M. Shinde and
Dr. Madhuri S. Todkari
Abstract
Skin is the mirror which reflects the harmony of internal functions of
body. Any change in skin disturbs the Patient both mentally and
physically. Psoriasis is a chronic, long lasting, recurrent, Autoimmune
and Non- communicable inflammatory diseases of skin and joints. In
Ayurveda Eka Kushtha can be compared with Psoriasis. Psoriasis is
characterised with intense scaling, itching and patches of abnormal
skin. These skin patches are typically red, vary in severity from small
to large and localised to extensive. Areas of the body are most
commonly affected are back of the forearm, scalp, face, nails,
skinfolds, under breast, armpits, genitals. In Charaka Samhita, Eka
Kushtha is described as Vata- Kaphaja disease. The exact aetiology of
Psoriasis is not known but many precipitating factors like unsuitable life style, diet, genetics,
immunological and psychological has been found. There is no certain cure for the disease
modern science provides symptomatic relief but also has side effect in long course. Ayurveda
propounds a holistic treatment approach for Psoriasis. In Ayurveda repeated Shodhana
Chikitsa and Shamana Yogas are mentioned in treatment of Kushtha. Virechan Karma
followed by internal medications and Takradhara therapy is best line of management for
Skin disorders. It showed good results in Psoriasis. The present case study has been under
taken to study Ayurvedic management of Psoriasis.
Keywords: Ekakushtha, Psoriasis, Shamana Chikitsa, Shodhana Chiktisa.
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