AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF CHRONIC PLAQUE PSORIASIS (KITIBH)- A CASE STUDY

Skin diseases have a significant impact on health-related quality of life, comparable to other serious medical conditions. They are among most common cause of human illness, resulting in a substantial non-fatal burden. Recent decades have seen a concerning increase in skin and subcutaneous diseases, attributed to factors such as altered lifestyles, lack of physical activity, poor hygiene, mental stress, unhealthy eating habits, and nutritional deficiencies. Ayurveda categorizes various skin diseases under the term \"Kushta,\" which is further divided into \"Mahakushta\" and \"Kshudra Kushta.\" \"Kitibha Kushta,\" a type of Kshudra Kushta, exhibits symptoms resembling those of plaque psoriasis. Psoriasis, a chronic condition encountered frequently in clinical practice, has a widespread prevalence and often requires long-term treatment due to its recurring nature. A 50 years old male patient came in Kaya Chikitsa opd of Sir Sundarlal Hospital, BHU with Chief Complaints:- raised, blackish patches covered with a silvery/ white scale with intense itching on B/L lower leg and elbow since 10 year. Intervention: The patient was treated using Ayurvedic principles, including \"Sanshodhana Chikitsa\" through \"Virechana Karma\" and \"Sanshamana Chikitsa\" involving the use of \"Mahatikta Ghrta,\" \"Kaishore Guggulu,\" \"Psorakot Tablet,\" “Patolakaturohinyadi Kashaya’’ and \"Winsoria Oil\" for external use. Outcome: Complete remission of the all complaints of patient was observed after 3 months of treatment. Conclusion: This case study demonstrates the potential and usefulness of Ayurveda in the management of chronic plaque psoriasis (Kitibh Kustha).