Abstract

ROLE OF TINOSPORA CORDIFOLIA (GUDUCHI) IN SHEETAPITTA W.S.R. URTICARIA

Shail Bala*, Chandan Singh, Vikram Singh and Renu Sharma

Abstract

Ayurveda is the science of life providing guidelines on ideal daily and seasonal routines, diet, behavior and proper use of senses for healthy and happy life. It suggests health as the balanced and dynamic integration between our environment, body, mind and spirit. Sheetapitta is common allergic reaction that can be correlated with urticaria as per modern science. Sheetapitta (urticaria) is a tridoshajanya vikara manifested on the skin keeping the blood (rakt dhatu) as its base & characterized by dark red skin rash, raised & itchy bumps. Urticaria occurs when the body reacts to allergen and releases histamine from under the surface of the skin. Modern medical literature explains urticaria as hives due to a hyper sensitive allergic trigger. Hence anti-histaminic like chlorpheniramine maleate, cetirizine etc. are the drugs of choice, often accompanied by corticosteroid (dexamethasone). The histamine and chemicals cause inflammation and fluid to accumulate under the skin, causing wheals. But this treatment often fails and may not give a longstanding relief. There is no specific and no satisfactory treatment in the modern science for the condition of urticaria but it can be effectively managed through Ayurveda system of medicine. the Ayurveda treatment of sheetapitta mainly involves pacification of vitiated doshas and detoxification of body using medicine and shodhan therapy. Some Ayurveda drugs offer beneficial effect in the management of such diseases present article described role of tinospora cordifolia (guduchi) in sheetapitta (urticaria). Tinospora cordifolia has been used in ayurvedic preparations for the treatment of various ailments throughout the centuries. It is used as a rasayana to improve the immune system and body resistance against infections.

Keywords: Sheetapitta, urticaria, guduchi, rasayan.