Therapeutic Potential of Ikshvaku-Based Vamana Karma in Eka Kushtha (Psoriasis): A Narrative Review of Classical Ayurvedic Concepts and Contemporary Evidence

Background Eka Kushtha is one of the important dermatological disorders described in Ayurveda under the category of Kshudra Kushtha. It is characterized by chronicity, extensive skin involvement, scaling, itching, dryness, and recurrence. Based on clinical presentation, Eka Kushtha is commonly correlated with psoriasis, a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory skin disorder of modern dermatology. Despite advancements in therapeutic approaches, psoriasis remains a recurrent condition requiring long-term management. Ayurveda emphasizes correction of disease pathology through elimination of aggravated Doshas and restoration of physiological balance. Among Panchakarma procedures, Vamana Karma is considered a prime Shodhana therapy for Kapha predominant disorders. Ikshvaku (Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Standl.) is described as an important Vamana Dravya in classical Ayurvedic literature. Aim The present narrative review aims to explore the therapeutic potential of Ikshvaku-based Vamana Karma in Eka Kushtha by integrating classical Ayurvedic concepts with contemporary scientific evidence. Materials and Methods A narrative literature review was conducted through classical Ayurvedic texts and electronic databases. Classical references from Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya, and Bhavaprakasha Nighantu were analyzed. Published research articles from databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and AYUSH Research Portal were reviewed using keywords related to Eka Kushtha, psoriasis, Vamana Karma, Panchakarma, Ikshvaku, and Lagenaria siceraria. Relevant literature was critically analyzed. Results Ayurvedic classics describe Kushtha as a disorder involving Tridosha imbalance with involvement of Twak (skin), Rakta (blood), Mamsa (muscle tissue), and Lasika (lymphatic tissue). Eka Kushtha is considered predominantly Kapha-Vata dominant and presents with features comparable to psoriasis. Vamana Karma facilitates elimination of aggravated Kapha Dosha and is therefore considered therapeutically relevant. Ikshvaku is described among Vamana Dravyas due to its emetic property. Contemporary studies on Lagenaria siceraria suggest antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory potential. However, clinical studies specifically evaluating Ikshvaku-based Vamana in Eka Kushtha remain limited. Conclusion Ikshvaku-based Vamana Karma represents a promising area of Ayurvedic research in chronic dermatological disorders. Although classical evidence supports its therapeutic rationale, systematic clinical studies with standardized protocols and objective outcome measures are required for scientific validation.