THERAPEUTIC EFFICACY OF AN AYURVEDIC FORMULARY PREPARATION IN EKAKUSTHA (ERYTHRODERMIC PSORIASIS): A CLINICAL CASE STUDY

Ayurveda holds a unique position among life sciences for its effective treatment of various skin disorders, offering lasting therapeutic effects since ancient times. In Ayurveda, significant skin diseases are categorized under the classification of Kushta, with Ekakushta being one of them. The classical texts of Ayurveda recognize each type of Kushta as a manifestation of Tridosha, identifying Ekakushta as a Vatakapha condition. Factors such as mental stress, negative emotions, disrespect towards teachers, and engagement in sinful activities contribute to its development. The characteristics of Ekakushta include aswedam (lack of perspiration), mahavastum (extensive), matsyashakalopam (similar to fish scales), and krishnaruna (blackish red color). The disease described in Ayurveda closely resembles psoriasis, which is an immune-mediated inflammatory condition characterized by intermittent flare-ups and remissions. Psoriasis is defined by the presence of erythematous, scaly plaques, particularly affecting the extensor surfaces. A 50-year-old male patient visited the outpatient department with complaints of itchy, scaly, black lesions on his body for the past six years. He was diagnosed with Ekakustha (Erythrodermic Psoriasis). The patient underwent Sodhana therapy followed by Samana treatment, resulting in the resolution of all symptoms within two months. Patients with psoriasis can benefit from Ayurvedic treatment.