Abstract

A COMPARATIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY ON SKIN DISORDERS ACROSS VATA, PITTA, AND KAPHA PRAKRITI TYPES

Dr. Madhav Sharma*, Dr. Namrita, Dr. Dolly Thakur and Dr. Sapna Kaushish

Abstract

Background: In Ayurveda, an individual's Prakriti (constitutional type) plays a fundamental role in determining susceptibility to diseases, especially Twak Vikara (skin disorders). Each Dosha—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—has inherent Gunas that manifest distinctly when imbalanced. While skin disorders are traditionally associated with Pitta Dosha, clinical manifestations in Vata and Kapha types are often underexplored. This study aims to compare skin disorder patterns across different Prakriti types and draw correlations with modern dermatological diagnoses. Objective: To observe and compare the manifestations of skin disorders in individuals of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha dominant Prakriti, and correlate classical Ayurvedic symptomatology with modern clinical dermatological findings. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted on 50 participants presenting with skin disorders. Prakriti assessment was done using a validated Ayurvedic questionnaire used in the screening OPD of Shri Dhanwantry Ayurvedic College and Hospital, Chandigarh. Each participant was categorized into Vata, Pitta, or Kapha dominant type. Skin symptoms were recorded and categorized using Ayurvedic textual references and ICD-based dermatological diagnoses. Data were analysed for patterns and inter-group correlations. Results: Out of 50 participants, 18 were Pitta-dominant, 16 Vata-dominant, and 16 Kapha-dominant. The most common skin disorders in each group were. • Pitta Prakriti – Yuvan Pidika (Acne vulgaris), Charmadala (Urticaria), and Vyanga (Melasma) • Vata Prakriti – Dadru (Tinea corporis), Kitibha (Psoriasis), and Rukshata (Xerosis) • Kapha Prakriti – Mandala Kushta (Seborrheic dermatitis), Kandu (Pruritus), and Shvitra (Vitiligo) The study found that while the pathogenesis varied according to Dosha dominance, many conditions overlapped symptomatically and correlated with modern inflammation-based, fungal, or autoimmune etiologies. Conclusion: Prakriti-based differentiation of skin disorders reveals unique symptom profiles and tendencies, yet shared pathophysiological elements (e.g., inflammation, infection, hypersensitivity) offer strong bridges to modern dermatology. Understanding these patterns reinforces the Ayurvedic concept of personalized medicine and its applicability in integrative dermatological care[12]

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