Effectiveness of Panchakarma Virechana on Psoriasis

A female patient aged about 29 years, approached Adyant Ayurveda with the complaints of reddish, white scaly lesions prominently over the arms, legs, lower regions of scalp near the ears, whole back region and over the cheeks since 4-5 months.

Associated Complaints

• Itching along with flakes on itching.
• The patient also has high stress levels.
• Diet is untimely, more of unhealthy foods, incompatible foods.
• Lack of physical activity.
• Bowels are irregular.
• Appetite is low.
• Sleep is disturbed.
• Prakruti: Kapha Vata.
• History of hypothyroid regulated with medications.
• Family history of respiratory allergy in mother.

The patient was counseled about the long-term treatment modality as it was a widespread condition.

Panchakarma Virechana was planned as the first line of treatment to address the doshic imbalance from the root.

Amapachana was done with Agnitundi Vati, followed by Snehapana with Panchatikta Ghrita and Bahya Snehana with Yastimadhu Taila.

The patient underwent Virechana procedure for 15 days. The procedure went smoothly, with 14–15 vegas.

A significant change was noted in the lesions:

• Itching reduced by 70%.
• No flaking was observed.
• Size and number of lesions reduced by 50%.

Internal medications like Gandhaka Rasayana, Guggulu Tiktaka Kashayam, Khadiraristam, along with external application of Psoraherb Oil, were advised to be taken for a course of 6 weeks.

A strict dietary modification with guidance about Virudha Ahara, along with stress management, was advised to speed up the healing.

Panchakarma Virechana is a targeted procedure which works as a Shodhana Chikitsa to accelerate the healing process in psoriasis and give long-term benefits. However, the internal medications have to be continued until the symptoms completely resolve.

A complete Rasayanam Therapy will be advised as a rejuvenation and maintenance therapy for psoriasis.

Ayurveda has a holistic approach for an impactful treatment of Psoriasis.