Keratosis pilaris (KP), also called strawberry skin or chicken skin, is a genetic condition characterized by small, bumpy lesions associated with itching. It is seen usually over the outer sides of the upper arm, thighs, back, and buttocks. It occurs when the human body produces an excessive amount of keratin. Although the prevalence of this disease is quite high, there is a lack of awareness regarding this condition among the population. In Ayurveda, there is no exact correlation of KP but it can be correlated to Kapha vata predominant Eka kushtha or khusdra Khsuhtha , involving features such as Rukshata (dryness), Krishna aruna varna ( blackish reddish ), Parusha ( dryness ), and Kandu (itching). There are multiple studies on the modern management of this condition but the Ayurveda management is yet to be explored. This is a case study of a 25-year-old female student suffering from KP for the past 5 years, and she has a family history of similar complaints. The patient has Pidaka (multiple follicular papules) with Rukshata (dryness) and Kandu (itching) over the upper arms for 5 years. The patient was diagnosed based on the clinical manifestations and also based on the Dosha prevalence. This case study reports the successful management of KP with the use of Nalpamaradi Taila , a classical Ayurvedic medicated oil mentioned in Sahasra yoga ( Taila Prakarana ) twice daily for 6 weeks along with some dietary and lifestyle modifications. Follow-up done after 2 weeks. The patient showed significant improvement in her skin condition as the skin felt smoother, itching was reduced, and the papules became less noticeable. This case highlights the efficiency of managing skin conditions of unknown etiology on the basis of Dosha predominance and symptoms, with Nalpamaradi Taila known for its Kushtanghna (pacifies skin disorder) and Kandughna (pacifies itching).
Tyagi et al. (Wed,) studied this question.