AYURVEDIC INSIGHTS IN THE MANAGEMENT OF EK-KUSTHA (PSORIASIS): ACASE REPORT

Psoriasis is a long-term inflammatory skin condition that can greatly affect a person’s daily life and well-being. It is marked by accelerated epidermal proliferation and regular acanthosis, resulting in the excessive build-up of the stratum corneum, leading to scaling. This disrupted skin turnover is a defining characteristic of the disease. While modern medicine has advanced in symptom management, some patients do not respond effectively to treatment, or its efficacy diminishes over time. Additionally, long-term use of modern medications may lead to adverse effects1 . In Ayurveda, psoriasis is classified as Ek Kushta, a condition dominated by Vata and Kapha doshas. According to Acharya Charaka, Kushtha is a tridoshaja (vata, pitta, kapha) vyadhi. This study presents the case of a 42-year-old male with moderate to severe erythrodermic psoriasis, who had previously undergone systemic treatment in modern medicine without adequate improvement. A traditional Ayurvedic approach was implemented, beginning with Samshodhana (purification therapy) through Virechanaa (therapeutic purgation), followed by 30 days of Samshamana (palliative treatment). At the end of the treatment period, a skin lesion assessment was conducted to evaluate the outcomes.