A study on the role of Patolkaturohni Kashyam, Ayyappalakera Tailam and diet in the management of Eka Kustha (Plaque Psoriasis)

Abstract

Skin disease is one among Deerghkalinvyadhi (Chronic disease) and also one of the Astha Mahagada (Eight dreadful diseases). The disease psoriasis comes under the Kustha Roga. Psoriasis is one of the most common dermatologic disorders and a chronic skin disorder of present day. Almost all the skin disease is explained under Kushta Rogadhikara (skin disease) and classified as Maha Kushta and Kshudra Kushta (Major and Minor skin disease). Acharya have described that all Kushta’s have Tri Dosha (three energies) involvement but the type of Kushta depends on the predominance of particular Doshas. The signs and symptoms of Eka-Kushta (psoriasis) in Ayurveda are similar to that of psoriasis explained in modern medicines. Psoriasis is marked by periodic flare-ups of sharply defined red patches, covered by a silvery, flaky surface. Aswedana (Absence of perspiration), Mahavastu (Present all over body), Mastya Shakalopama (Look like a fish scale) is the feature mentioned by Acharyas for Eka-Kushta. In Psoriasis relapsing nature is most common, which suggests that it needs long term treatment. In modern there is no such treatment for psoriasis. As Patolkaturohinyadi Kashaya is having Kusthghna, Raktashodhak and Kapha-Pitta Shamak property, and Ayyappalakera Tailam is having Kapha-Pitta Shamak property so, Eka Kustha should be managed by using Patolkaturohinyadi Kashaya and Ayyappalakera Tailam with diet successfully. This study will evaluate the role of Patolkaturohinyadi Kashaya, Ayyappalakera Tailam and diet in pacifying the symptom of Eka Kustha and its management.