Ayurvedic management of Kitibha Kushta (Guttate Psoriasis) with Virechana and Shirodhara - A Single Case Study

Chaithra M; Ranjitha

doi:10.21760/jaims.10.6.49

Chaithra M Post Graduate Scholar, Department of Roganidana, Government Ayurveda Medical College, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India. https://orcid.org/0009-0007-8703-4121
Ranjitha Associate Professor, Department of PG Studies in Roganidana, Government Ayurveda Medical College, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.21760/jaims.10.6.49

Keywords: Kitibha Kushta, Guttate Psoriasis, Virechana, Shirodhara, Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI), Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI)

Abstract

In Ayurveda, skin diseases are classified under the heading "Kushta", which is further divided into Mahakushta and Kshudra Kushta. Kitibha Kushta falls under Kshudra Kushta and is characterized by small, round, and scaly skin lesions. Kushta Roga, a dermatological disorder that includes psoriasis, is a chronic condition marked by recurrence, immune-mediated skin inflammation, and scaling, thickened, and rough skin lesions accompanied by itching. This condition affects both genders equally, with a worldwide prevalence of 1-2%, and can significantly impact the physical, emotional, and psychosocial well-being of affected individuals. A 46-year-old male patient with a 3-month history of Kitibha Kushta underwent treatment with Virechana and Shirodhara for 30 days. The patient's symptoms were assessed using the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) and the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) before and after treatment. The results showed significant improvement, with an 84% reduction in PASI score and a 90% reduction in DLQI score. The patient reported a marked reduction in itching, scaling of the lesions, and anxiety. This case study suggests that Ayurvedic management using Virechana and Shirodhara may be an effective treatment option for Kitibha Kushta. Moreover, Ayurvedic medicines have been providing a safe and effective approach to managing Kitibha Kushta for thousands of years.

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