Management of chronic plaque psoriasis with Ayurveda therapeutic regimen: A case report

BACKGROUND: Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition with significant comorbidities and a profound psychosocial impact. Modern treatments often fall short, leaving the disease underdiagnosed and undertreated. CASE PRESENTATION: A 65-year-old male presented with chronic plaque psoriasis, exhibiting dry erythematous plaques on the anterior shin bone and a positive Auspitz sign. Laboratory investigations revealed normal results, except for mildly elevated liver enzyme levels. INTERVENTION: Based on Ayurvedic principles, the treatment focused on balancing the vitiated Doshas and enhancing Agnideepana (digestive fire stimulation), Amapachana (metabolic detoxification), Pitta Shamaka (pacifying excess Pitta ), Raktaprasadana (blood purification), and Vatanulomana (normalizing Vata). The intervention also included strict dietary modifications and precautions for 3 months, with dietary restrictions maintained for an additional month. RESULTS: The patient’s progress was measured using subjective assessments and the Simplified Psoriasis Area Severity Index (SPASI) score. The treatment resulted in significant improvement, with the patient’s SPASI score reducing from 36 to 2. No relapse was noted during the follow-up period. Liver enzyme levels returned to normal. CONCLUSION: This case demonstrates the successful management of plaque psoriasis through an Ayurvedic approach, emphasizing the importance of customized therapeutic interventions. The significant improvement without recurrence in this case highlights the potential of Ayurveda in treating chronic conditions such as psoriasis.