Ayurveda Management of Lichen Planus (Kitibha Kushtha): A Case Report

Abstract This article explores the case of a 15-year-old female child who suffered from chronic skin problem for the last 2 years, characterized by dark-brown, dry-rough, scaly, flat-topped maculopapular patches of irregular shapes, associated with severe itching and sometimes oozing of blood after itching. In contemporary science, it can be correlated with cutaneous lichen planus (LP). In Ayurveda, skin disorders, termed Twak Vikara , are primarily categorized under Kustha . On the basis of Doshika involvement ( Kapha and Vata vitiation), the diagnosis was made as Kitibha Kushtha . Ayurveda provides a holistic approach to treating LP by addressing the root cause of the condition. Following the Ayurvedic principles of treatment, the patient underwent a comprehensive management plan including Shodhana (purification) through Vamana (therapeutic emesis), alongside Shamana (palliative care) and dietary modifications. Patient was advised oral medicines, Guduchi Churna, Aamalaki Churna, Vidanga Churna, Kutaki Churna each 500 mg twice a day with lukewarm water, Arogyavardhini Vati 250 mg twice a day with lukewarm water, Gandhaka Rasayana 250 mg twice a day with lukewarm water, Khadirarishta 10 mL twice a day with equal amount of lukewarm water, Panchatikta Gugulu Ghrita 5 mL twice a day with lukewarm water. Along with Ayappalakera Taila for local application. As per the LP Severity Index scoring for LP, the patient was observed with significant improvement of scoring 16 before treatment to scoring of 0 after treatment. This case illustrates the efficacy of Ayurvedic interventions in managing complex dermatological conditions.