Holistic Management of Plaque Psoriasis through Panchakarma and Rasayana Therapy: A Case Study

Abstract

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder marked by erythematous plaques with a silvery scale, primarily affecting extensor surfaces and the scalp, and causing significant physical, mental, and social distress due to its appearance. In Ayurveda, skin diseases are classified under Kushta, with psoriasis identified as Sidhma Kushta. While the exact aetiology of psoriasis is unknown, contributing factors include genetic predisposition, dietary habits, immune responses, and psychological stress, exacerbated by modern lifestyle changes. A 37-year-old male with plaque psoriasis, diagnosed as Sidhma Kushta in Ayurveda, received a treatment regimen consisting of Rookshana through Rooksha virechana with patolamooladi kashayam followed by Snehapana with Aragwathamahatiktakam ghrita. This was succeeded by Vamana and Virechana and ended with Siro Takradhara. During the  3 months follow up period o Rasayana was administered in the form of Tuvaraka taila Nasya and Pathyadi  curna .Within just one month of continuous treatment, observed excellent outcomes characterized by a significant reduction in  Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI), Dermatological Life Quality Index (DLQI), and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) , and notably, during the follow-up period, there was no recurrence of the condition, indicating the treatment's sustained effectivenessThis case report underscores the remarkable effectiveness of Panchakarma and Rasayana therapies in treating Sidhma Kushta, thereby demonstrating their significant potential in the effective management of plaque psoriasis and highlighting their role as viable therapeutic options in the realm of dermatological care