Management of Lichen Planus Through Ayurveda: A Single Case Study

Abstract

Lichen Planus is an Autoimmune skin disorder of unknown etiology characterized by formation of flat topped, polygonal, greyish white, purple / lilac eruption, itching on skin most commonly on flexor surfaces, arms, wrists, back and less often on some other parts of body including nails, vagina & mouth. It is an inflammatory Papulo-squamous disorder in which T-lymphocytes attack the basal epidermis, producing characteristic clinical and histological lesions. Modern medicines like topical corticosteroids creams, lotions, injections, pills etc used in this disease are not significant, unsatisfactory and not free from side effects. According to Ayurvedic classics, it resembles with Charma Kushtha. Lichen Planus can be treated with the principles of treatment mentioned for Kushtha in Ayurveda. A 27 Year old patient came to our hospital for ayurvedic treatment after trying other pathy treatments. According to predominance of Dosha-Dushya, I treated patient with Shodhana karma i.e.,Vamana Karma and Shamana chikitsa which shows good results.