Conceptual study on Sheetapitta, Udard and Kotha with special reference to Urticaria

Abstract

Ayurveda is the science of life providing guidelines on ideal daily and seasonal routines, diet, behaviour and proper use of senses for healthy and happy life. It suggests health as the balanced and dynamic integration between our environment, body, mind, and spirit. Sheetapitta is a Tridoshajanya Vikara manifested on the skin keeping the blood (Rakta Dhatu) as its base & characterized by dark red skin rash, raised & itchy bumps. Its symptoms can be corelated with those of Urticaria. Urticaria is a type I hypersensitivity reaction which is manifested because of exposure to such allergens. Hence anti-histaminis like Chloropheniramine maleate, cetrizine, etc. are the drugs of choice, often accompanied by corticosteroid (Dexamethasone). The histamine and chemicals cause inflammation and fluid to accumulate under the skin, causing wheals. But this treatment often fails and may not give a long standing relief. The contributing factor for this failure is the allergen, which is difficult to identify by any means of investigation. Allergens are present as food, medicine and environmental factors. Exposure to such allergens is unavoidable contributing to the increasing incidence of skin diseases. The present paper intends to highlight the Ayurvedic management in reducing signsymptoms and recurrence of the disease.