Ayurvedic Management of Switra (Vitiligo)

Abstract

As we know, Twaka (skin) is the outermost covering of our Sharira (body) and is the largest organ of the integumentary system. The skin is one of the important sense organs. Human beings are always conscious of protecting their skin from any impairment that makes them look ugly in our society. Among various skin impairments, Svitra is one of the crucial cosmetic impairments in which whitish discolourations on the skin disturb the patient’s social confidence due to social stigma. In Ayurveda, Bhrajak Pitta is responsible for the Prabha of our Tvaka. Svitra is considered vitiligo, or leukoderma, in modern science based on findings. It comes under the broad heading Kustha in our Ayurveda classics. Switra is due to vitiation of the Tridoshas, Rasa, Rakta, Mamsa, and Medas. Aim: To study the Ayurvedic management of Svitra in a case study. Objectives of study: To study the various aspects of Ayurvedic management of Svitra. To assess the effectiveness of Ayurvedic management in Svitra. Materials and Methods: It is a single case study. An 18-year-old boy who was clinically diagnosed with Svitra two years ago visited our OPD. Shaman chikitsa was given for up to 12 weeks. Significant regression of the hypopigmented patches was seen at both the lower limb and upper limb.  Subjective criteria observed for improvement in hypopigmented patches. Result: Before and after treatment assessed with VASI scoring. Significant clinical improvement was noted within twelve weeks of treatment.