Review of Vamana Karma in Ekakushtha (Psoriasis)

Abstract

Psoriasis is one of the most common dermatologic diseases affecting up to 1% of the world’s population. Psoriasis is a common, chronic and non-infectious skin disease characterized by well-defined dry scaly erythematous patches and covered with adherent silvery white scales. The etiology of psoriasis is still poorly understood, but there is clearly a genetic predisposition. In allopathic management, PUVA and corticosteroids are used. But these therapies have side effects like hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity, bone marrow depletion etc. Psoriasis still stands as a challenge to different medical systems. In Ayurveda, skin diseases are included under Kushtha and Kshudra Rogas. Psoriasis cannot be directly correlated with any disease in Ayurveda, but maximum similarity is found with Ekakushtha. Symptoms of Ekakushtha are Asvedanam, Mahavastum, Matshyashakalopama, Krishna Aruna Varna, Kandu, Srava, and Mandala. Ayurveda treatment, i.e. Shodhana, Shamana, Nidana Parivarjana and Rasayana provides long lasting results and a better life to patients. Vamana Karma is best for elimination of vitiated Kaphadosha by means of vomiting. Previous researches showed significant results of Vamana in psoriasis. Psoriasis (Ekakushtha) though is difficult to manage, but if proper diagnosis is made at proper time, many complications can be avoided. Vamana procedure before internal medicines can be best option for management of psoriasis.  Keywords: Psoriasis, Ekakushtha, Ayurved, Vamana Karma, vomiting

Nirmal Bhusal, Santosh Kumar Bhatted. Review of Vamana Karma in Ekakushtha (Psoriasis). Research and Reviews: A Journal of Ayurvedic Science, Yoga and Naturopathy. 2017; 4(2): 17–20p.