Contribution of Ayurveda for Management of Plantar Psoriasis: A Case Report

Abstract

Background: Palmo-plantar psoriasis, i.e., one type of psoriasis, is a non-contagious and non-inflammatory skin condition that produces functional disability. It consists of clinical features like cracking skin associated with scaling, erythema, itching, pain & pustules over palms and soles. It occurs as a result of a disordered immune system(an autoimmune disease) that mainly affects the skin layers at different levels. It can be correlated with Vipadika in the Ayurveda, which is one of the types of Kshudra Kustha with the predominance of Vata-Kapha Dosha. Materials & Methods: It is a single case of 70  years old male patient suffering from excessive scaling over both palms and soles with severe pain for one year. Observation & Result: The patient got satisfactory & complete relief in all symptoms by adopting Shodhana Karma (purification treatment), i.e., Mrudu Vamana  & Mrudu Virechana, followed by Shaman Chikitsa (palliative treatment) with dietary and behavioral lifestyle modification for one month. Discussion: After looking for the patient's complaints, the proper Ayurvedic medicine using anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antioxidant drugs were selected based on the type of Dosha and Dushya involved in the pathogenesis of the disease. Conclusion: Ayurvedic management with Dwividh Chikitsa, i.e., Shodhan and Shaman, based on the fundamentals of Ayurveda, effectively manages palmoplantar psoriasis.