Management of Vipadika (~Plantar Psoriasis) in Ayurvedic Prospect

Plantar psoriasis accounts for 3%–4% of all psoriasis cases and produces significant functional and social disability. Plantar psoriasis is a variant of psoriasis that characteristically affects the skin of the soles with features, i.e.,; hyperkeratotic, pustular, or mixed morphologies. Many of the skin disorders in Ayurveda have been described under the heading of Kushtha (group of skin diseases) and Kshudra Kustha. Vipadika (Plantar psoriasis) is one of the diseases which has been included under the heading of Kshudra Kushtha. In classics, clinical features of Vipadika are cracks (Sphutana) either in palms or soles or in both with pain. A 42-year-old male patient visited our outpatient department with complaints of scaling and fissure of skin of bilateral soles, with bleeding from cracks for 6–8 months. Examination and history lead to a diagnosis of Vipadika (Plantar psoriasis). This case was managed with Virechana Krama (~therapeutic purgation), followed by Shaman Chikitsa (pacifying therapy) with internal administration of Guduchi Churna 2 g twice a day after meal with luke warm water, Panchvalkal Kwath once 4 ml morning empty stomach, with Panchvalkal Kwath wash in sufficient quantity, Triphala Churna Avchurnan (topical dusting of powder) and local application of Jatyadi tail along with Pathya (wholesome regime), and Apathya (unwholesome regimen) for 4 months. The effect of the therapy was assessed by the signs and symptoms before and after the treatment. The treatment modalities showed relief in patient's signs and symptoms. Hence, Ayurveda procedures and medicaments are promising in the management of Vipadika (~Plantar psoriasis).