Ayurvedic Treatment Of Plaque Psoriasis: Case Report

Abstract

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory and hyperproliferative skin disorder that significantly affects patient quality of life. Plaque psoriasis, the most prevalent form, accounts for approximately 90% of cases. Conventional treatment options often have limitations, leading to frequent relapse. This case highlights the successful management of plaque psoriasis through an Ayurvedic multimodal approach, offering an alternative therapeutic strategy for autoimmune skin disorders. Case Presentation: A patient diagnosed with plaque psoriasis came in OPD with significant erythema, scaling, and pruritus and severely impacting day to day life. Clinical evaluation confirmed recurrent plaque psoriasis with widespread lesions. Intervention and Outcome The patient was treated with Shamana Chikitsa (pacifying therapy), including oral administration of Ayurvedic formulations such as Punarnavaastak Kwath, Shudha Gandhak, Ras Manikya, Arogyavardhini Vati, Nimb Churna, Madhuyasti Churna, Guduchi Churna, and Triphala Churna, along with Panchtikt Ghrita. External applications (Bahiparimarjan Chikitsa) included Psoralin ointment, 777 oil (Indrayava based), and Jatyadi Taila, applied 3-4 times daily. While Shodhana Chikitsa (purification therapy) is the primary treatment for skin disorders (Kushta), initial management focused on Shamana Chikitsa to stabilize symptoms. After two months of treatment, the patient showed significant improvement, with reduced lesions and no reported relapses. Conclusion: This case demonstrates the potential effectiveness of an Ayurvedic multimodal approach in managing plaque psoriasis. The observed clinical improvements suggest that Shamana Chikitsa may serve as an alternative or complementary therapy, particularly in cases where conventional treatment show limitations. Further studies are required to explore the long term benefits and mechanisms of Ayurvedic interventions in autoimmune skin diseases.