Patho-physiology of COVID19 and possible management principle from ayurveda's perspective

Abstract

This opinion article is prepared in light of connecting the dots related to symptoms and complications seen in COVID-19 cases. Ayurveda understands the patho-physiology from the perspective of deranged body constituents. Based on same principles and the clinical picture of COVID-19 worldwide, this opinion article is prepared. The information regarding disease progression, collated from authentic sources, the disease maybe a pitta condition primarily triggering kapha release. Pitta and Kapha together are instigating complications such as hepatitis, myocarditis, GI symptoms, pneumonitis, Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS). Also, there happens to be a stark resemblance between advanced symptoms of COVID-19 with complications of Herpes zoster and ZSH (Zostersine-herpete) despite different viruses triggering that. As per Ayurvedic patho-physiology, herpes is a pitta predominant disorder and COVID-19 too seems to exhibit similar symptoms in advanced stages. Pitta pacifying medicines have been effective in conditions like herpes zoster, Chicken pox etc. Based on this information, a hypothesis about the management plan for COVID-19 is proposed in this opinion article. Primarily pitta pacifying (inflammation relieving) medicines may have a role in treatment of a certain subset of SARS-CoV-2 infected individuals.