AYURVEDIC APPROACH TO EK KUSTHA (PSORIASIS): A CASE STUDY

Ek kustha, a kind of Kshudra Kustha, is caused by an imbalance of Vata and Kapha doshas and has clinical signs similar to psoriasis. Psoriasis is an autoimmune and chronic inflammatory skin illness with erythematous, clearly delineated papules and spherical plaques coated in silvery micaceous scale. It primarily affects the skin of the elbows, gluteal cleft, knees, trunk and scalp. Psoriasis can cause psychological suffering, including sadness and social isolation, and has been linked to increased suicidal ideation rates. The primary treatments for psoriasis include steroid creams, vitamin D3 cream, PUVA, and immune system suppressing drugs like methotrexate. Long-term usage of these contemporary treatments can lead to serious consequences. There is a need for treatment that is both effective and safe. This case study focused on Psoriasis as Ekkustha, and Ayurvedic treatment was devised accordingly. Shodhana (Vaman karma & Virechana karma) and Shamana chikitsha (internal herbo-mineral preparations and external oil application) both produced significant outcomes.