Ayurveda management of Visarpa (Herpes zoster) - A Case Study

Skin is the largest organ of the body which acts as a first line of defence in providing resistance to the body. The aggravation of various Dhatus and Doshas result in skin diseases. Visarpa is an acute condition with a quick spreading involving mainly skin, blood, lymph and muscle tissue due to vitiation of all three Doshas. As the basic nature of the disease is Rakta and Pitta predominant, management is focused on Shodhana, Rakthamokshana, Langhana, Shamana, Lepa Chikitsa. This case study is an attempt to evaluate the role of Ayurvedic management in Visarpa. A 50 year-male presented with vesicular lesions on his chest, below the left axillary region and back associated with mild itching, burning sensation and pain. He was approached with Shodhana and Shamana therapies which showed significant improvement in the condition.