Abstract

AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF PSORIASIS - A CASE STUDY

Dr. Manisha Talekar* and Dr. Sisir Kumar Mandal

ABSTRACT

Rajasthan, India. ABSTRACT Psoriasis is a common, chronic and non-infectious skin disease characterised by circumscribed scaly patches with particular predilection to scalp and extensor surface of body. Exact cause for this disease is unknown but there is an inherited predisposition. The strong genetic influence may result from a single dominant gene with poor penetrance or a number of genetic influences. Other factors such as local trauma, general illness and stress are also involved, so the cause of psoriasis is best regarded as being multifactorial. In Ayurveda, the disease is correlated as Ekakushtha and Mandala Kushtha due to resemblance of signs and symptoms. In modern medicine the cure of this disease is out of question as the cause is unknown. Ayurveda propounds a holistic treatment approach for psoriasis. As per Ayurvedic view point Vata, Kapha and Pitta/Rakta vitiation are the major contributing pathological factors in its manifestation and Virechana Karma (purgation therapy) and internal medication is considered as the best line of management for skin disorders. A case report of 22-year-old male, presented with well demarcated raised red scaling silvery patches on trunk and back region with itching and burning has been presented in this article.

Keywords: Ekakushtha; internal medication; psoriasis; virechana.