SWITRA AND VITILIGO: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW OF AYURVEDIC AND MODERN PERSPECTIVES

Shwitra Kuṣṭha is a non-infectious skin disorder described in Ayurveda, characterized by loss of normal skin pigmentation, comparable to vitiligo in modern medicine. It is classified under Kuṣṭha Roga and is caused by Tridoṣa vitiation, predominantly Pitta and Kapha, affecting Rasa, Rakta, Māṃsa, and Meda dhātus. Etiological factors include Viruddhāhāra, improper lifestyle, and past karmic influences. Clinically, it presents as white or pale patches on the skin without discharge or pain. Management emphasizes Śodhana therapies such as Vamana and Virechana followed by Śamana and Rasāyana measures, along with strict dietary and lifestyle regulation.