Abstract

AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF ACANTHOSIS NIGRICANS – A CASE STUDY

Inchara P.*, Sharon Samuel and Nikila Hiremath

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Abstract

Acanthosis nigricans (AN) is a dermatological condition that has been recognized for more than a hundred years. AN in adolescents occurs frequently associated with obesity. It is a chronic illness that often has its roots in childhood and has a tremendous impact on the individual’s health in the future. Diet and lifestyle play a major role in such conditions. There is a popular saying, “you are truly what you eat”. Ayurveda’s take on this old adage is, “you are what you assimilate”. A radiant, clear complexion begins with proper nutrition, efficient digestion and assimilation of nutrients by body, as well as regular elimination. Ama inside our body makes a person diseased from within reflecting on the external skin. Due to Mandagni, ama is formed, and this is the root cause of all diseases. This makes Shodhana, undoubtedly the best therapeutic intervention to eliminate the internal toxins and rejuvenate the body. This is a case of a young girl with complaints of irregular menstrual cycle since menarche along with appearance of blackish discoloration over the neck, flanks, chest, abdominal region and thigh region for 1.5 years. There was significant improvement in her menstrual cycle irregularity and pigmentation with Ayurvedic line of management by panchakarma and oral Ayurvedic medicines. With continued treatment her menstrual cycle got regular and blackish discoloration reduced completely.

Keywords: Acanthosis nigricans, PCOS, Kshudra kusta, virechana.