A CASE STUDY ON EKAKUSHTHA (PSORIASIS) TREATED WITH CLASSICAL AYURVEDIC INTERVENTIONS

Skin is the largest organ of the body. It is not only a protective physical barrier of the body but it is the identification unit for a person. It serves as a mirror of an individual’s age, overall health, hygiene, beauty, and complexion. Concerns about skin appearance can influence self-confidence and may affect mental health. One such disease is “Psoriasis”. Psoriasis is one of the most common dermatologic diseases, affecting up to 2% of the world's population. It is an immune-mediated disease clinically characterized by erythematous, sharply demarcated papules and rounded plaques covered by silvery micaceous scale.[[1]] Ayurveda is a science which focuses on physical as well as psychological balance of the body. So choosing Ayurveda medicine as first line of treatment for skin problems can be promising. Acharya Charak of Ayurveda explains dermatological findings under Kushtha. Kushtha is further classified into 7 Mahakushtha and 11 Kshudra Kushtha.[[1]] Ekakushtha is a type of Kshudra Kushtha occurring mainly due to imbalance of Vata and Kapha Doshas, resembling Psoriasis in its clinical manifestations. Hence in the present case report a 34 year old male who came to Rog Nidan Evum Vikriti Vigyan OPD at NIA campus, present with symptoms of Ekakushtha was treated with Shamana Chikitsa. After treatment satisfactory results were observed.