subject: Approach of Ayurveda for Psoriasis or EK Kustha [print this page] Approach of Ayurveda for Psoriasis or EK Kustha
According to modern science psoriasis is a skin disease in which reddish papules and dry white, shining scales, fish like in appearance, devlop on the surface of the skin. Removing the scales by force causes the skin to bleed. The condition persists for along period and usually relapse after periods of remission. Eruptions occur generally more on legs and arm joints.
In ayurveda , the symptoms of EK KUSTHA appear to be so similar to those of Psoriasis that they are now considered the same disease. Though in modern science no definite etiology has yet been established, some factors are clearly related to the disease. It is accepted that genetic defects and biochemical reactions in the skin are primary factor of psoriasis. The disease may erupt at any age, but it is less prevalent in childhood and old age. In thirty percent of case, genetics is a factor. Psoriasis is not contagious and males and females are both susceptible. It is more prevalent in the cold climates of Europe than in the autumn and winter seasons. It becomes more acute when the patient is suffering from mental tension. It is found in those organs that are subjected to rubbing and pressure. Therefore , genetic deficiencies and mental tension as well as cold climate are the factor of disease. The disease may start from a very small spot like a pinpoint and can spread until it is a very long lesion over the whole body.
Management of Psoriasis
The principle guidelines of treatment are
Nidanaparivarja : Need to find out the possible and precipitating cause of the disease
Psycho-emotional counceling , sattvajaya
Samsodhana chikitsa : panchakarma : This is the most effective therapy. Panchakarma vamana, Virechana and Raktamokshana are best procedure in Ayurveda
Food and diet advices
Samana chikitisa(drug regimens) there are many Ayurveda preparation which are effective. Basically we need to focus on bowel clearance , liver cleansing, blood purifying and immune enhancing or immune modulators.
My suggestion to all Ayurveda practitioners is to reach depth of the disease and manage with multi dimensional approach. As we know that what extent stress can deteriorate the disease condition? So all the spiritual, mental, sensorial and bodily factors need be considered and manage accordingly. Ayurveda can give good results in this disease.
