Cost-effective <i>Siddha</i> Management of Psoriasis Vulgaris with Special Reference to <i>Kalanjagapadai</i> – A Case Report

Abstract

Psoriasis is a non-infectious and chronic inflammatory skin disorder that is characterized by well-defined erythematous plaques with silvery scales over the epidermis. It significantly affects a patient’s social and psychological well-being. Contemporary medicine offers no definitive treatment. However, corticosteroids are the drug of choice for treating psoriasis. Currently, available therapeutics cause severe side effects on the body. In the Siddha system of medicine, psoriasis can be compared with Kalanjagapadai, because most of the signs and symptoms mimic that of Plaque psoriasis. However, the principle based on the Siddha medicine approach has proven to be effective. This article presents a case of psoriasis treated for 3 months with Siddha herbo-mineral preparations and dietary restrictions. A 40-year-old male patient presented with complaints of well-defined erythematous itchy skin lesion, burning sensation, and silvery scaling all over the body for the past 3 months. Based on the symptoms Kalanjagapadai treatment was adopted here. After giving purgation therapy (Viresanam), and internal and external medications, the patient’s erythema, itching, and scaling symptoms subsided. The Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) score was decreased. Although psoriasis is intricate to treat, Siddha treatment has proven to be beneficial when using appropriate medications and therapies. In this case report, attempts were given for further scope on Psoriasis in wide-based extensive clinical trials.