Ayurvedic Management of Psoriasis (Kitibha Kushtha): A Case Study With Virechana Karma

The skin is a glass mirror which reflects the balance of the body's interior functions. Nowadays, psoriasis has become one of among the most prevalent disorders. It affects 2% of world’s population. (1) Erythematous, scaly patches are the hallmark of psoriasis, a papulo-squamous, long-lasting dermatological condition caused by the immune system that primarily affects the extensor regions, especially the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back.(2) Psoriasis is connected to widespread inflammation and has an intricate cause involving an immune system malfunction, environmental stressors, and a genetic background. In Ayurveda, similar signs and symptoms are defined under the term Kitibha Kushtha, one of the Kshudra Kushthas (minor skin diseases), that is marked by kinakhara sparsha (lesions with rough texture like an elephant's skin), shyava varna (dark discoloration), and parusha (roughness).(3) Ayurvedic concept of dosha-dushya sammurchana in Kitibha Kushtha primarily involves Vata and Kapha doshas, along with twak, rakta, mamsa, and lasika as the dushyas(4),which closely aligns with the modern knowledge of immune and system involvement in psoriasis. Modern pharmacological treatments like corticosteroids and immunomodulators often present side effects. Ayurvedic treatments focusing on shodhana (detoxification) and therapy, supported by dietary regulations and lifestyle modifications, may help in mitigating symptoms and improving quality of life.