Ayurvedic management of Psoriasis vulgaris: A case study

Abstract

Psoriasis is a Chronic, autoimmune Papulo - squamous, recurrent inflammatory disease of the skin characterised by Circumscribed, erythematous, dry, Silvery Scaley Plaques with fluctuating manifestation and frequent re-currence. patients suffering from Psoriasis experiences physical, emotional and Socioeconomic stress and embarrassment. The Incidence is about 0.4 % to 2.8 % amongst Indians and prevalence is high in third and fourth decades of life. In Ayuneda all skin Conditions are observed under 'Kushtha' where Psoriasis Can be closely correlated with Kitibha Kushtha having Vata- kapha dominance. the term 'Twacha'is derisved from the Dhatu - twacha samvarne which means body covering. It is described as upa-dhatu of Rasa dhatu and considered as one of 'Jnanendriyas' for perception of sense of touch. 'Twacha' or skin serves as barrier and first line defense against the external environmental factors. like physical, Chemical and biological assaults. The Characteistic Pathophysiological events occurring includes epidermal proliferation, Expansion of dermal Vasculature and accumulation of Inflammatory Cells. In the present study an effort has been made to treat 46 year female patient suffering from Psoriasis vulgaris Through Samshodhan and sanshaman treatment madalities described in Ayurveda. Initially Viechan chikitsa was administerd along with appropriate measures of poorva karma, and then followed by Sanshaman yoga. PASI score is used as a tool to assess the Sevirity of lesion.