Case Study: Ruhi – Chronic Psoriasis

Ms. Ruhi, had been suffering from psoriasis for over 6 years. Her condition was characterized by red, scaly patches on her skin, accompanied by severe itching, dryness, and occasional pain. Despite trying several allopathic treatments, including steroid creams and immunosuppressants, her condition showed only temporary improvement and would flare up periodically. These frequent flare-ups caused significant distress, affecting her self-esteem, social life, and overall quality of life.

Medical History:

• Psoriasis: Diagnosed 6 years ago, with scaly patches predominantly on her scalp, elbows, knees, and back.
• Previous Treatments: Steroid-based creams, moisturizers, and oral medications had provided temporary relief, but the psoriasis kept recurring. Side effects from these medications, such as thinning of the skin and hormonal imbalances, also concerned her.

Consultation at Chandigarh Ayurved Centre:

Seeking a long-term, natural solution, Ruhi consulted the Chandigarh Ayurved Centre. After a detailed examination, the Ayurvedic practitioners concluded that her psoriasis was primarily caused by an imbalance of Pitta and Vata doshas, along with the accumulation of ama (toxins) in her body, which manifested in the skin condition. Psoriasis, as per Ayurveda, is a Kushtha Roga (skin disorder) linked to poor digestion and a weakened immune system.

Ayurvedic Diagnosis:

• Aggravated Pitta: Contributed to the inflammation, redness, and heat in the affected skin areas.
• Aggravated Vata: Caused the dryness, scaling, and itching.
• Accumulation of Ama: Due to poor digestion and improper elimination of toxins, leading to flare-ups.

Ayurvedic Treatment Plan:

The treatment approach was designed to detoxify her system, balance her doshas, and nourish the skin naturally. It combined herbal remedies, Panchakarma therapies, and dietary adjustments to heal her psoriasis from within.

1. Herbal Medicines:

   • Kaishore Guggulu: A classical Ayurvedic formulation used to purify the blood, reduce inflammation, and heal skin diseases.
   • Arogyavardhini Vati: To detoxify the liver, improve digestion, and clear toxins from the body.
   • Manjistha: A potent herb known for its blood-purifying properties and ability to reduce skin inflammation.
   • Neem Tablets: Known for their anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and healing properties for skin disorders.
   • Gandhak Rasayan: A natural sulfur-based Ayurvedic remedy to support healthy skin and treat chronic skin conditions.
   • Khadirarishta: A herbal tonic to purify the blood and treat various skin diseases like psoriasis.

2. Panchakarma Therapies:

   • Virechana (Purgation Therapy): A cleansing therapy to remove excess Pitta and toxins from the body, helping reduce skin inflammation and flare-ups.
   • Abhyanga (Oil Massage): Daily oil massage with medicated oils like Mahamarichyadi Thailam to moisturize the skin, soothe irritation, and improve circulation.
   • Takradhara (Buttermilk Therapy): Pouring medicated buttermilk over her forehead to cool the body, reduce stress, and pacify aggravated Pitta dosha.
   • Snehapana (Internal Oleation Therapy): The consumption of medicated ghee to lubricate and cleanse the digestive system, aiding in the removal of toxins.

3. Dietary and Lifestyle Modifications:

   • A Pitta-Vata pacifying diet: Ruhi was advised to avoid spicy, oily, and sour foods that aggravate Pitta, as well as dry and cold foods that worsen Vata.
   • Increasing the intake of fresh, cooling, and hydrating foods like cucumbers, leafy greens, and fruits to nourish her body and calm the doshas.
   • Drinking plenty of water and herbal teas (like coriander tea) to flush out toxins.
   • Daily yoga and meditation practices to manage stress, which was identified as a trigger for her psoriasis flare-ups.

4. Topical Applications:

   • Neem and turmeric-based creams: Applied to the affected areas to reduce itching, dryness, and inflammation.
   • Aloe Vera Gel: Used to soothe irritated skin and promote healing.

Results:

After 2 months of continuous Ayurvedic treatment, Ruhi experienced significant improvements in her psoriasis symptoms:

• Skin Condition: The redness, scaling, and itching reduced by more than 70%, with fewer flare-ups. The affected patches on her body began to heal, and her skin became smoother and less dry.
• Overall Health: Her digestion improved, and she felt lighter, with fewer digestive issues like bloating or gas, which had previously worsened her condition.
• Energy Levels: With detoxification and improved dietary habits, her energy levels increased, and she felt more positive and relaxed.
• Emotional Well-being: The visible improvement in her skin gave her a confidence boost, and her anxiety about her condition lessened significantly.

Conclusion:

Ruhi’s case demonstrates the power of Ayurvedic medicines and therapies in addressing chronic skin disorders like psoriasis. By balancing her doshas, detoxifying her body, and adopting a holistic approach to healing, she achieved significant relief from her long-standing condition. The natural treatment approach at Chandigarh Ayurved Centre not only provided her with symptomatic relief but also targeted the root causes of her condition, ensuring long-term recovery and overall well-being.