AN AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVE ON SHEETPITTA: ETIOPATHOGENESIS AND MANAGEMENT

Sheetpitta is an Ayurvedic condition classified under the Kushtha category, characterized by temporary wheals (mandala), severe itching (kandu), burning sensations (daha), and sometimes angio-edematous swelling. Traditional Ayurvedic literature attributes its cause to the imbalance of Vata and Pitta, with secondary effects on the Rasa and Rakta dhatus, and identifies dietary, seasonal, and lifestyle factors such as viruddh aahara and exposure to cold winds as contributing factors. This paper offers a thorough review of classical Ayurvedic texts and modern evidence linking Sheetpitta to urticaria and related hypersensitivity disorders. The methodology involved a systematic examination of classical Sanskrit texts (Charaka, Sushruta, Ashtanga Hridaya, and their commentaries) alongside contemporary literature (dermatology reviews) to outline nidana, samprapti, lakshana, and chikitsa. The therapeutic discussion incorporates Ayurvedic principles: nidana parivarjana, Shodhana (Vamana/Virechana/Raktamokshana when necessary), shamanadravyas with kandughna and raktashodhaka properties, external applications (lepa, snana, abhyanga), and strict adherence to pathya–apathya. The correlation with modern treatment emphasizes complementary roles: symptomatic relief (antihistamines, short-term corticosteroids) versus Ayurvedic strategies aimed at addressing root causes and preventing recurrence. The review suggests a practical protocol for clinical evaluation (dosha dominance, agni, dhatu status), treatment selection, and follow-up, and highlights the need for controlled clinical trials to provide evidence for integration. Combining classical insights with current urticaria guidelines supports an evidence-based, patient-centered Ayurvedic approach for Sheetpitta.