MULTI-DIMENSIONAL AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF PSORIASIS - A CASE STUDY

Abstract

Purpose: Psoriasis is a common, genetically determined, inflammatory and proliferative disease of the skin characterized by epidermal hyper-proliferation and signs of premature and incomplete keratinization. Psoriasis can lead to psychological distress, significant depression and social isolation; a high rate of thoughts about suicide has been associated.

Psoriasis is a lifelong condition. There is currently no cure, but various treatments Steroid creams, vitamin D3 cream, PUVA and immune system suppressing medications such as methotrexate can help to control the symptoms. Many of the most effective agents used to treat severe psoriasis carry an increased risk of significant morbidity.

These modern treatment modalities are not devoid from grave complications mainly in long term use. Owing to these reasons, there is a need for treatment having good efficacy. In Ayurveda it can be corresponded to Ekkustha. In this case report, symptomatic relief and improved quality of life highlights a potential of Ayurvedic treatment (Pancakarma procedures and oral Ayurvedic medicine) in Psoriasis.

Method: Brief case report: A 22 years old male patient with clinically diagnosed with Psoriasis came to P D Patel Ayurveda hospital, Nadiad. He was having severe itching, rashes and scalling on skin, red patches all over body. He had taken further treatment, but not having any satisfactory relief. He was treated with Snehapana, Vaman karma and Virechana karma followed by Niruha basti, Raktamokashna and oral medication for one month of IPD treatment, then after he is coming in follow up for last 1 year. He was advised to continue dietary restriction.

Result: He got exlleclent result after one month of IPD treatment. The above treatment provided 80% relief in all the symptoms. This case study shows potency of Ayurvedic principles provides significant relief in symptoms and improvement in quality of life.

Conclusion: Positive result in the present case highlights the potential of multi-dimensional Ayurveda treatment in managing Psoriasis and will help to generate the hypothesis for further research.