Understanding Lichen Planus: Insights from Ayurveda and Modern Medicine
an acumen through ayurveda
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Lichen planus
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Subtitle: an acumen through ayurveda
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Aditya Shahaji Favade and Sadhana Prithviraj Chavan
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Lichen planus
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20174-8014
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Lichen planus is a rare inflammatory papulosquamous disorder that affects less than 1% of the global population, characterized by flat-topped, polygonal papules on the skin and mucous membranes. The condition primarily manifests through intense pruritus and can impact the skin, hair, nails, and mucous membranes significantly, often described using terms from both modern and Ayurvedic medicine. In Ayurveda, lichen planus is related to "charmakushta," a skin condition that combines vata and kapha doshas. Given the side effects and hazards associated with modern steroid treatments, there is a pressing need for effective and safe Ayurvedic remedies tailored to the individual patient’s dosha profile.
Ayurvedic Perspective on Etiology and Pathogenesis
According to Ayurveda, the etiology of lichen planus can be attributed to the intake of mutually contradictory foods, suppression of natural urges, and excessive physical activity under extreme conditions. These factors contribute to the vitiation of the three doshas—vata, pitta, and kapha—which in turn affect the skin (tvak), blood (rakta), muscle tissue (mamsa), and lymph (ambu). Various dietary transgressions and lifestyle missteps lead to a condition that is tied to multiple pathogenic substances, reflecting the complexity of treatment approaches required in Ayurveda. The understanding of these factors reiterates the holistic viewpoint of Ayurvedic practice in addressing skin disorders.
Treatment Modalities in Modern Medicine
In modern medicine, treatment options for lichen planus include both topical and systemic therapies. Topical corticosteroids are typically the first line of treatment, supplemented by systemic corticosteroids and retinoids for more severe cases. While these methods can relieve symptoms, they also come with potential side effects, underscoring a need for further exploration of alternative treatments. The risk of adverse effects often causes anxiety for patients, prompting interest in natural and holistic alternatives that may offer relief without the complications associated with synthetic medications.
Ayurvedic Treatment Approaches
Ayurvedic treatments for lichen planus aim to balance the involved doshas through various herbal remedies and lifestyle adjustments. Recommended treatments include specific combinations of medicated ghee, various churna, and tailored diets that focus on reducing kapha and vata doshas. Notable remedies such as Mustadi Churna and Kanakabindvarista are highlighted for their efficacy in managing "kushta." The Ayurvedic approach emphasizes individualized treatment plans based on the patient’s unique constitution and symptoms, presenting a more personalized care option.
Conclusion
Lichen planus remains a significant challenge for both patients and healthcare providers, particularly due to the limitations and side effects of modern therapeutics. The integration of Ayurvedic principles and treatment modalities offers promising avenues for safer and more effective management of this condition. Continuous research and clinical studies in Ayurveda are crucial for distilling its potential benefits, providing patients with holistic care that could prevent long-term complications and enhance overall well-being. Emphasizing natural remedies and lifestyle adjustments may ultimately lead to better patient outcomes and satisfaction.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is lichen planus and its symptoms?
Lichen planus is an inflammatory skin condition characterized by erythematous-to-violaceous, flat topped, polygonal papules. It may affect skin, mucous membranes, hair, and nails, often causing intense itching and lesions predominantly on the flexor aspects of extremities.
How is lichen planus related to Ayurveda?
In Ayurveda, lichen planus is correlated with 'charmakushta,' a skin disease primarily linked with vata and kapha dosha imbalances. Ayurvedic texts suggest various treatments based on dosha dominance, emphasizing the importance of personalized care.
What are the common treatment options for lichen planus?
Modern treatments for lichen planus often include corticosteroids and retinoids. Ayurveda offers herbal remedies and therapies like snehapana (ghee administration) and vamana (emetic therapy) tailored to the dosha involved.
What dietary recommendations are suggested for lichen planus patients?
Patients are advised to consume light foods like 'laghu ahara,' bitter leafy vegetables, and avoid foods like milk, curd, fish, heavy, and sour foods to manage their condition effectively.
What are some Ayurvedic herbs used for treating lichen planus?
Examples of Ayurvedic remedies include Mustadi Churna for kushta, Triphaladi Kashaya, and external applications like Tikteshvadi Taila, which can alleviate symptoms and balance doshas.
What have recent studies shown about lichen planus treatments?
Recent studies suggest that Tulsi and turmeric extracts may provide potential benefits in treating lichen planus by promoting skin health and modulating immune response.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Understanding Lichen Planus: Insights from Ayurveda and Modern Medicine”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine originating from India that emphasizes balance in bodily systems through diet, herbal treatment, yoga, and lifestyle changes. It considers health as a holistic process, assessing not just the symptoms of an illness but also the underlying imbalances in the body. This approach is particularly relevant for treating chronic conditions like lichen planus.
2) Food:
Food plays a crucial role in Ayurveda, influencing the body’s doshas (energies) and overall health. Certain types of food can aggravate or pacify specific doshas, thus impacting diseases like lichen planus, where the right dietary choices can assist in recovery and manage symptoms effectively.
3) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, representing earth and water elements. It governs structure, stability, and fluid balance within the body. An imbalance in Kapha can contribute to various skin disorders, including lichen planus. Ayurvedic treatments often focus on balancing Kapha through diet and medication.
4) Taila (Thaila):
Taila, or oil, is extensively used in Ayurvedic treatments for its nourishing and therapeutic properties. Specific oils may be applied externally to treat symptoms of diseases like lichen planus, alleviating itchiness and promoting skin healing through their unique properties and actions.
5) Vata:
Vata is the Ayurvedic dosha connected to air and space, governing mobility and circulation in the body. An excess of Vata can lead to skin issues such as lichen planus. Hence, treatment often involves strategies to balance this dosha through diet, lifestyle adjustments, and herbal remedies.
6) Disease:
The term disease encompasses any condition that causes dysfunction in the body, thus affecting overall health. In Ayurveda, diseases like lichen planus are viewed through the lens of dosha imbalances, necessitating a multifaceted treatment approach aimed at restoring equilibrium and health.
7) Kushtha (Kustha):
Kustha refers to a group of skin disorders in Ayurveda. Lichen planus is categorized under this term, highlighting its relevance within Ayurvedic texts and therapies. The treatment principles for Kustha focus on addressing dosha imbalances and restoring skin health through herbal remedies and dietary changes.
8) Medicine:
Medicine, in the context of Ayurveda, encompasses natural remedies and therapies that promote healing. Ayurvedic medicine emphasizes the use of plant-based formulations and holistic techniques to treat conditions like lichen planus, focusing on eliminating root causes rather than merely alleviating symptoms.
9) Ghi (Ghee):
Ghee is clarified butter commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine for its health benefits. In skin disorders such as lichen planus, ghee is administered internally to counteract dietary imbalances and promote healthy skin regeneration. Its nourishing properties are vital for maintaining the balance of doshas.
10) Triphaladi (Triphala-adi):
Triphaladi refers to a formulation containing three fruits and is recognized in Ayurveda for its therapeutic properties. This specific herbal mix is used to treat conditions, including skin diseases like lichen planus, leveraging its ability to balance doshas and cleanse the body.
11) Substance:
In Ayurveda, substances encompass the various herbal and natural components used for treatment. The effective use of therapeutic substances forms the foundation of Ayurvedic practice, particularly in managing conditions like lichen planus, which require a tailored approach to restore harmony in the body.
12) Suffering:
Suffering refers to the physical and emotional distress experienced by individuals with chronic conditions such as lichen planus. Ayurvedic principles aim to alleviate suffering by addressing root causes through holistic approaches involving diet, lifestyle changes, and herbal treatments tailored to individual needs.
13) Itching:
Itching is a common symptom of lichen planus, significantly impairing a patient's quality of life. Ayurveda offers various treatments to relieve itching, including topical herbal applications and dietary adjustments, recognizing that treating the root cause is essential for achieving lasting relief.
14) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosha is a fundamental concept in Ayurveda, representing the three energies (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) that govern physical and mental processes. Identifying the predominant dosha helps in developing effective treatments for conditions like lichen planus, emphasizing personalized care that addresses specific imbalances in the body.
15) Kandu (Kamdu):
Kandu is the Sanskrit term for itching, a prevalent symptom associated with many skin disorders, including lichen planus. Ayurvedic treatments often focus on alleviating Kandu through herbal remedies and dietary modifications that balance doshas responsible for skin health.
16) Drug:
In Ayurveda, drugs refer to the various herbal and mineral substances used to treat ailments. Ayurvedic drugs for conditions like lichen planus aim to restore balance to the body and heal symptoms through natural means, contrasting with synthetic allopathic medications.
17) Performance:
Performance in Ayurvedic contexts often relates to the body's ability to function optimally. In treating lichen planus, the emphasis on enhancing bodily performance through herbal treatments, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle changes is key in restoring health and quality of life.
18) Apathya:
Apathya refers to unsuitable or improper food and habits that disturb the balance of doshas. In Ayurvedic treatment for conditions like lichen planus, recognizing and avoiding Apathya is essential to prevent aggravating the disease and promoting recovery through proper diet and regimen.
19) Kashaya (Kasaya):
Kashaya denotes herbal decoctions used in Ayurveda known for their astringent properties. These are prepared for internal consumption or external application, particularly benefiting skin conditions like lichen planus by supporting tissue regeneration and minimizing symptoms through holistic treatment.
20) Jaggery:
Jaggery, or Guda, is a traditional sweetener in Ayurveda viewed as beneficial for overall health. However, in managing skin disorders like lichen planus, excessive consumption may be discouraged, as it can exacerbate Pitta dosha, contributing to inflammation and imbalance.
21) Ghrita (Ghrta):
Ghrita is a medicated ghee used in Ayurvedic treatments due to its nourishing and therapeutic properties. It plays a crucial role in treating conditions like lichen planus by soothing inflammation and supporting skin health while balancing doshas for optimal recovery.
22) Aditya:
Aditya Shahaji Favade is the lead author of the discussed study on lichen planus. His work focuses on integrating Ayurvedic principles with modern medicine to enhance understanding and management of skin disorders, aiming to fuse ancient wisdom with contemporary medical practices.
23) Pathya:
Pathya refers to the appropriate dietary and lifestyle measures recommended in Ayurveda to maintain health. In lichen planus treatment, adhering to Pathya helps in managing dosha imbalances, emphasizing the importance of proper food choices and habits in supporting healing.
24) Pitta:
Pitta is one of the three Ayurvedic doshas associated with fire and water elements, governing metabolism and transformation in the body. An imbalance in Pitta can lead to inflammatory conditions like lichen planus, and treatments often focus on cooling and balancing this energy.
25) Mamsa (Mamsha):
Mamsa refers to muscle or flesh in Ayurveda. In discussions about diseases like lichen planus, it highlights the interconnectedness of bodily tissues, as various doshas can influence the health and condition of the skin, necessitating a holistic treatment approach.
26) India:
India is the birthplace of Ayurveda, offering a rich heritage of traditional medicine and holistic practices aimed at understanding and treating diseases like lichen planus. The country's diverse flora and historical practices contribute significantly to the evolution of Ayurvedic treatments and philosophies.
27) Blood:
Blood, or Rakta in Ayurveda, is one of the seven dhatus (tissues) and is critical for overall health. Its balance is vital in treating skin disorders like lichen planus, where Ayurvedic treatments aim to purify and restore blood quality to promote healing.
28) Study (Studying):
The term study refers to research endeavors such as the pilot study mentioned involving turmeric for treating oral lichen planus. Such studies are crucial for validating Ayurvedic treatments and integrating evidence-based practices within the scope of traditional medicine.
29) Tila:
Tila, or sesame seeds, is a significant food item in Ayurveda known for its health benefits. While beneficial in moderation, Ayurveda may caution against overconsumption of Tila in skin conditions like lichen planus, as excessive intake may contribute to dosha aggravation.
30) Curd:
Curd is a staple in Ayurvedic diets, recognized for its cooling properties. In managing conditions like lichen planus, it's crucial to monitor curd consumption, as its heavy nature can exacerbate certain doshic imbalances, particularly when addressing Pitta-related issues.
31) Hair:
Hair is assessed in Ayurvedic medicine as part of overall health, with its condition reflecting dosha balance. In lichen planus, where hair and scalp can be affected, Ayurvedic treatments often aim to restore both scalp health and dosha equilibrium.
32) Fish:
Fish is often viewed as a protein source in Ayurvedic diets. However, in the context of skin disorders like lichen planus, excessive fish consumption may not be advisable, especially considering the impact of certain foods on dosha balance.
33) Milk:
Milk is a key ingredient in Ayurveda, offering various health benefits. However, in the treatment of conditions like lichen planus, consumption may need to be limited or modified, as its heavy and cold nature can disturb dosha balance, particularly in Pitta types.
34) Sour:
Sour tastes are influential in Ayurveda, often attributed to stimulating digestive fire. While beneficial in moderation, sour foods can aggravate Pitta dosha, making them potentially harmful in the context of lichen planus treatment, where balance is crucial.
35) Ocimum sanctum:
Ocimum sanctum, or holy basil (Tulsi), is valued in Ayurveda for its therapeutic properties. It’s considered beneficial for treating skin conditions like lichen planus due to its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, aligning with Ayurvedic principles of restoring dosha balance.
36) Mahatiktakaghrita (Mahatiktakaghrta, Mahatiktaka-ghrita):
Mahatiktaka-ghrita is a specific medicated ghee used in Ayurveda to treat skin disorders. Its application in conditions like lichen planus focuses on nourishing the skin and balancing doshas to alleviate symptoms effectively and promote overall healing.
37) Maharashtra (Maharastra, Maha-rashtra):
Maharashtra is a state in India and the location of the study's authors. The cultural significance and traditional knowledge concerning Ayurvedic practices in Maharashtra contribute to the understanding and treatment of diseases like lichen planus within the region.
38) Kaphavata (Kapha-vata):
Kapha-vata denotes a condition where both Kapha and Vata doshas are out of balance. In ayurvedic treatment for lichen planus, addressing both doshas is crucial, combining therapies that can balance these energies effectively to restore skin health and overall wellness.
39) Green gram:
Green gram, or Mudga, is utilized in Ayurveda for its health-promoting properties. It is included in specific diets for skin conditions like lichen planus due to its ability to provide nourishment without aggravating doshic imbalances when prepared appropriately.
40) Kritamala (Krtamala, Krita-mala):
Kritamala refers to a traditional herbal ingredient in Ayurvedic medicine. Its use in treatments for conditions like lichen planus emphasizes the importance of herbal remedies in managing skin disorders by addressing specific doshic disturbances and promoting healing.
41) Scorching:
Scorching temperature is often discussed in Ayurveda regarding skin health. Exposure to extreme heat can exacerbate conditions like lichen planus, highlighting the need for protective measures while treating skin affections against environmental stressors.
42) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiated refers to doshas that are disturbed or imbalanced, leading to disease manifestations. In Ayurvedic treatments for lichen planus, the concept of addressing vitiated doshas is essential to restoring health by reestablishing balance and harmony.
43) Tridosha (Tridosa, Tri-dosha):
Tridosha represents the three fundamental energies in Ayurveda—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Understanding Tridosha is essential in managing conditions like lichen planus, as successful treatment relies on balancing these energies to promote overall health.
44) Triphala (Tri-phala):
Triphala is a well-known Ayurvedic formulation comprised of three fruits, celebrated for its detoxifying and rejuvenating properties. It is often used in skin treatments like lichen planus to restore health by effectively managing dosha imbalances.
45) Vomiting:
Vomiting is viewed through Ayurvedic lenses as a natural reaction and a symptom of doshic imbalance. In treating lichen planus, understanding patient tendencies to suppress natural urges such as vomiting can inform treatment approaches to restore balance.
46) Turmeric:
Turmeric is a renowned herb in Ayurveda, praised for its anti-inflammatory and skin-healing properties. Clinical studies highlight its relevance for treating conditions like lichen planus, solidifying its role in bridging traditional practices with modern research.
47) Elephant:
The elephant is referenced in Ayurveda to describe certain skin conditions where the skin becomes thick and rough, similar to an elephant's hide. This analogy aids in understanding skin disorders like lichen planus, where specific characteristics guide diagnosis and treatment.
48) Samgraha (Sangraha):
Sangraha refers to compilations of Ayurvedic knowledge, including texts that systematically categorize diseases and treatments. Such works, including fundamental texts on skin issues, aid practitioners in understanding and treating conditions like lichen planus effectively.
49) Sadhana:
Sadhana pertains to the disciplined practice of Ayurveda, emphasizing holistic health. In the context of lichen planus, engaging in Sadhana highlights the importance of consistent dietary practices, lifestyle choices, and treatments to effectively manage and heal this condition.
50) Hridaya (Hrdaya):
Hridaya denotes the heart in Ayurveda, symbolizing the center of life and consciousness. While not directly related to lichen planus, understanding its overall significance encourages holistic consideration of emotional and physical health within Ayurvedic practice.
51) Jangala (Jamgala):
Jangala is a term used for specific regions in Ayurveda that specify dietary guidelines. In treating lichen planus, factors derived from Jangala influence dietary approaches based on geographical and climatic considerations essential for dosha balance.
52) Kaphaja:
Kaphaja indicates conditions influenced primarily by the Kapha dosha, characterized by heaviness and sluggishness. In managing conditions like lichen planus, recognizing Kaphaja types informs specific dietary and therapeutic strategies to restore balance and health.
53) Bharati:
Bharati, often associated with Bharat (India), signifies cultural heritage and indigenous practices. The connection of Bharati to Ayurveda reveals the deep-rooted traditions that inform practices like managing skin disorders such as lichen planus through holistic, personalized approaches.
54) Mustadi (Musta-adi):
Mustadi refers to a specific herbal formulation used in Ayurveda for treating skin disorders like Kustha. Its utilization in managing lichen planus underscores the importance of traditional herbal remedies in restoring skin health and balancing doshas.
55) Khadira:
Khadira is an important herb recognized in Ayurveda for its therapeutic benefits, particularly for skin health. Its incorporation in treatments for lichen planus exemplifies the reliance on herbal formulations to rectify doshic imbalances and enhance skin condition.
56) Lucknow:
Lucknow, a city in India, is referenced in connection to contemporary studies on Ayurveda. Research conducted here contributes to the evolving understanding of traditional Ayurvedic practices in treating conditions like lichen planus, emphasizing modern validation of ancient wisdom.
57) Anxiety:
Anxiety is a psychological response that can accompany chronic conditions like lichen planus. The holistic approach of Ayurveda addresses this aspect by promoting mental well-being alongside physical treatment, recognizing the interrelation between mental and physical health in healing.
58) Mulaka:
Mulaka refers to radish, which is mentioned in Ayurvedic texts for its health benefits. While it has digestive properties, its consumption is often monitored in skin conditions like lichen planus due to potential aggravation of doshas when mismanaged.
59) Patola:
Patola is a vegetable recognized in Ayurveda for its health benefits. Its inclusion in the diet, particularly in treating conditions like lichen planus, is guided by Ayurvedic principles focusing on balancing doshas and promoting skin health.
60) Shveta (Sveta):
Shveta denotes the color white and is often associated with purity in Ayurvedic philosophy. In herbal terminology, specific formulations referred to as Shveta are used topically for treating skin conditions, highlighting the significance of color in Ayurvedic treatments.
61) Vamana:
Vamana, an Ayurvedic therapy involving therapeutic vomiting, is employed to balance doshas, particularly in conditions where Kapha is aggravated. In lichen planus treatments, Vamana may be indicated to eliminate excess dosha and facilitate healing.
62) Bitter:
Bitter tastes are acknowledged in Ayurveda for their health-promoting properties, associated with promoting appetite and digestion. However, they must be balanced in the context of treating lichen planus, as excessive intake may lead to doshic imbalances.
63) Laghu:
Laghu means light or easily digestible in Ayurveda. The concept of Laghu is vital in dietary recommendations for treating conditions like lichen planus, emphasizing light foods that prevent aggravation of doshas and facilitate better digestion and absorption.
64) Rakta:
Rakta refers to blood as one of the seven dhatus in Ayurveda, crucial for sustaining life and health. Its balance is essential in treating skin disorders like lichen planus, where herbal therapies may aim to purify and invigorate Rakta circulation.
65) Supti (Shupti):
Supti denotes numbness or loss of sensation, which may be experienced in skin ailments. In Ayurvedic treatment of conditions like lichen planus, addressing associated symptoms like Supti may guide holistic approaches to restore sensation and skin integrity.
66) Mudga:
Mudga, or green gram, is recognized for its health benefits in Ayurvedic diets. Its incorporation into treatment regimens for skin conditions like lichen planus highlights the focus on nourishing foods that promote healing without aggravating any doshic imbalances.
67) Tikta:
Tikta signifies taste, particularly the bitter flavor in Ayurveda. Its relevance in treating skin conditions arises from its detoxifying qualities, aiding in balancing doshas, particularly when managing conditions like lichen planus that require careful dietary consideration.
68) Ahara:
Ahara means food or diet in Ayurveda and plays a fundamental role in maintaining health and balance. Proper Ahara is emphasized in treating lichen planus by providing nourishment tailored to individual doshic imbalances, fostering optimal recovery.
69) Shaka (Saka):
Shaka refers to vegetables in Ayurveda, particularly greens. Incorporating Shaka into the diet is essential for maintaining a balanced diet and aids in treating conditions like lichen planus due to their nutritional properties and dosha-pacifying effects.
70) Nimba:
Nimba, or neem, is an herb celebrated in Ayurveda for its therapeutic properties, particularly in treating skin conditions. Its role in formulations aimed at addressing lichen planus highlights the importance of herbal ingredients that help mitigate symptoms and restore skin health.
71) Water:
Water is essential for life and featured prominently in Ayurvedic practices. Hydration is crucial in maintaining skin health, particularly when addressing conditions like lichen planus, where appropriate water intake supports overall bodily functions and skin integrity.
72) Tulsi:
Tulsi, or holy basil, is a revered herb in Ayurveda known for its healing properties and spiritual significance. Its application in skin treatments, especially for lichen planus, underscores its role in promoting balance through its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects.
73) Guda:
Guda refers to jaggery, which is a traditional sweetener regarded in Ayurveda for its health benefits. However, moderation is essential due to its potential to disrupt dosha balance, particularly in skin conditions like lichen planus, where dietary restrictions may apply.
74) Tvak:
Tvak signifies the skin in Ayurveda, considered a mirror of the body's internal health. Understanding Tvak is vital in treating conditions like lichen planus, where skin health reflects the balance of doshas that need to be addressed holistically.
75) Masha (Masa, Ma-sha):
Masa refers to leguminous plants, and their consumption is discussed in Ayurveda for their specific health benefits. In treating conditions like lichen planus, specific legumes may be viewed in light of their effects on dosha balance and overall health.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 81]
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