Management of Shwitra (~vitiligo) – An Ayurveda therapeutic approach

Skin is the largest organ of our body. The beauty and attractiveness of an individual depend upon the skin’s health, including physical and psychological well-being. Shwitra (~vitiligo) is the common depigmentation disorder described among the varieties of Kushtha (~integumentary disease) in Ayurvedic classics, manifesting in all ages irrespective of sex. In contemporary science, Shwitra can be correlated with Vitiligo to a certain extent. Shwitra is an ancient term that refers to conditions that cause white patches or discoloration of the skin. Vitiligo, on the other hand, is a medical condition characterized by the loss of pigment in the skin, leading to white patches. Vitiligo is a disorder of unknown etiology, characterized by the loss of melanin (skin pigments) in various parts of the body. The worldwide prevalence of Vitiligo is observed as 1% of the world population. In India and Mexico, the highest case incident has been recorded. Based on dermatologic outpatient records, it is estimated to be between 3-4% in India, although an incident as high as 8.8% has also been reported. A 44-year-old male with complaints of white patches over the armpit and left superior-lateral back side without scaling or itching for 6 years visited the outpatient department. On detailed examination, the case was diagnosed with Shwitra , and the patient was provided Ayurveda therapeutic modalities including internal administration of Kaishora guggulu, Arogyavardhini vati, Mahamanjishthadi kwatha, Gandhaka rasayana , Shirisharishta, and local application of Jatyadi taila with Bakuchi churna, and along with specific advice on Pathya-Apathya (~wholesome-unwholesome) diet and lifestyle regimen . The effectiveness of the treatment was assessed by the Vitiligo Extent Score (VES) before and after the treatment. The treatment modalities showed an improvement rate of about 97.8% in the VES, providing evidence of the effectiveness of the Ayurveda treatment modality in the management of Shwitra.