AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF SHWITRA (LEUCODERMA) - A CASE STUDY

Abstract

In Ayurveda, the disease shwitra is grouped under skin disorders. There is a myth attached with this condition that it results from bad deeds or after effects of sin of previous birth. Reasons for its origin- Viruddhahara (Incompatible food), Chardhi vega dharana (Suppression of vomiting), Atibojana (Excess food intake), Atyamla, lavana, madhura, katu rasa sevana (Intake of sour, sweet, salt and pungent food excessively), Navanna, dadhi, matsya bhakshana (Heavy intake of fresh grains, curd and fish), Vipra-guru gharshana (teasing and disrespecting the elders & teachers) and papakarma (sinful acts) etc leads three dosha aggravation in association with twak (skin), Rakta (blood), Mamsa (muscle) and Ambhu (water). Shwitra can be correlated with Vitiligo. Vitiligo is an acquired disease in which the melanocytes in localised areas of the body stop producing melanin. Clinically, it manifests as macular areas of depigmentation. It is also called leucoderma. Leuco refers to white and derma means skin. Vitiligo is not a serious or life threatening disorder, or painful one, but it has an impact on the social and psychological well-being of the patient. For present study, we had reported a 32 year old female patient, with complaint of whitish patch/ discolouration over front of the neck since 3years. The patient is treated with virechana karma followed by shamanaushadhis and Lepana were planned for 2months. Patient reported remarkable improvement in colour of patches.