AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF EK-KUSTHA W.S.R. TO PSORIASIS A CASE STUDY

Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory skin disorder that significantly affects the quality of life of patients due to its recurrent nature and visible skin manifestations. In Ayurveda, psoriasis can be correlated with Ek-Kustha, one of the varieties of Kustha Roga, characterized by symptoms such as Aswedanam (absence of sweating), Mahavastu (extensive lesions), Matsya-shakalopama (scaling resembling fish scales), Kandu (itching), and Twak-vaivarnya (skin discoloration). The present case study evaluates the effect of Ayurvedic management in a patient diagnosed with plaque psoriasis. Case: A 30-year-old male patient presented with erythematous scaly plaques over the elbow joints, flanks and back region associated with itching and dryness for one year. Treatment: The treatment protocol included Deepana-Pachana therapy, Anulomana, and Virechana-oriented internal medications such as Nagradi Vati, Nilinadi Vati, Sransana Vati, Kiratadi Vati, and Abhaya Vati along with local application of Wrightia tinctoria oil (777 oil). Dietary regulation and Nidana Parivarjana were also advised. The treatment was continued for 75 days. Result: Assessment was carried out using parameters such as discoloration, extent of lesion, scaling, anhydrosis, itching, Candle grease sign, and Auspitz sign. After completion of treatment, significant improvement was observed in all clinical symptoms, and most of the signs reduced to normal grades. Conclusion: The case demonstrates that Ayurvedic therapeutic approaches focusing on dosha-shamana, detoxification, and correction of digestive metabolism may provide effective management in psoriasis (Ek-Kustha).