Kitibha kushtha (psoriasis) – a review

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Kitibha kushtha (psoriasis) – a review”. 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) Kushtha (Kustha):
Kustha is an alternative spelling for Kushtha, denoting similar skin-related disorders. In Ayurvedic texts, it suggests a broader classification of skin diseases embodying diverse symptoms based on Dosha imbalances. Kustha captures the essence of various skin ailments, necessitating comprehensive treatment strategies rooted in traditional wisdom.

2) Dosha (Dosa):
Doshas are fundamental biological energies in Ayurveda, comprising Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. They govern bodily functions and health. An imbalance in Doshas is believed to contribute to disease, including skin disorders like Kushtha. Understanding Doshas is key for tailoring personalized treatment plans that restore health and balance.

3) Kitibha:
Kitibha refers to a specific type of Kushtha in Ayurveda, commonly correlated with Psoriasis. Characterized by dark, rough patches on the skin, Kitibha requires careful management. The Ayurvedic approach focuses on balancing the Doshas involved, addressing symptom relief, and restoring overall skin health through various therapeutic modalities.

4) Shodhana (Sodhana):
Sodhana signifies the cleansing and purifying processes in Ayurveda aimed at detoxification and rejuvenation. Recognizing the importance of Sodhana facilitates treatments designed to restore health and balance, particularly for chronic conditions exacerbated by accumulated toxins and imbalances.

5) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian medical system emphasizing harmony between mind, body, and spirit. It employs natural remedies, dietary guidelines, and lifestyle modifications to prevent and treat ailments. Central to its philosophy is the understanding of Doshas and their influence on health, driving holistic healing approaches.

6) Disease:
In the context of Ayurveda, a disease signifies an imbalance in the body's natural state, typically associated with impaired Dosha, Dhatu, or Mala. Understanding disease requires examining underlying causes, contributing factors, and symptoms to develop tailored treatments. Ayurvedic medicine offers insights into prevention and management strategies for various ailments.

7) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three Doshas in Ayurveda, characterized by qualities of heaviness, coldness, and moisture. It governs lubrication and stability within the body. An imbalance in Kapha can lead to diseases, including skin conditions like Kushtha, necessitating targeted therapies to restore equilibrium and improve health.

8) Vata:
Vata is a primary Dosha in Ayurveda, associated with qualities of dryness, lightness, and mobility. It regulates movement and communication in the body. Vata imbalance can contribute to various disorders, including skin diseases. Treatments often focus on nourishing and grounding therapies to restore Vata harmony.

9) Karma (Karman):
Karman signifies the actions or deeds individuals undertake affecting their health in Ayurveda. Recognizing Karman emphasizes the importance of mindful choices in daily life, highlighting how actions contribute to disease development or wellness.

10) India:
India is the origin of Ayurveda, a holistic healing system rooted in its cultural and philosophical traditions. The country's diverse climate, herbs, and healing practices shape Ayurvedic methodologies. Understanding India's context enriches the practice of Ayurveda, promoting natural and culturally relevant healthcare solutions.

11) Rajasthan:
Rajasthan, a state in India, plays a significant role in the practice of Ayurveda, contributing to the preservation of traditional medicinal knowledge through generations. Its unique herbs and remedies provide local practitioners with resources for treating conditions like Kushtha, showcasing the importance of regional practices in Ayurvedic medicine.

12) Samana (Shamana):
Shamana involves pacification therapies in Ayurveda that alleviate symptoms without necessarily removing the underlying disease. It is essential for managing chronic conditions, including skin disorders. Shamana treatments are tailored to the individual's unique Dosha balance, addressing both immediate discomfort and promoting overall health.

13) Nidana:
Nidana refers to the causative factors or origins of diseases in Ayurveda. Identifying Nidana is crucial for treatment planning as it provides insights into underlying imbalances. Avoiding Nidana through lifestyle and dietary changes is often the first step in the therapeutic process for skin diseases like Kushtha.

14) Rakta:
Rakta, meaning blood in Ayurveda, is considered a vital Dhatu responsible for nourishing tissues and organs. It plays a significant role in maintaining health and vitality. Disorders affecting Rakta can lead to systemic issues, including skin diseases, requiring targeted interventions to restore its balance and function.

15) Drug:
The term drugs, in an Ayurvedic sense, encompasses a range of natural substances used for medicinal purposes. These include herbs, minerals, and animal products that contribute to healing processes. Understanding the pharmacological properties of these drugs is essential for effective and safe treatment of various health conditions.

16) Kashaya (Kasaya):
Kashayas are bitter herbal decoctions in Ayurveda used for their detoxifying effects. They play a significant role in managing imbalances, purifying the body, and addressing chronic conditions, thus highlighting the importance of understanding herbal preparations in Ayurvedic practices.

17) Pitta:
Pitta is one of the three Doshas in Ayurveda, associated with heat, digestion, and metabolism. It maintains transformative processes in the body. Pitta imbalance can lead to various skin issues, including rashes and inflammation. Therapeutic approaches aim to cool and pacify Pitta to restore skin health.

18) Ghrita (Ghrta):
Ghrita, or ghee, is a clarified butter used extensively in Ayurveda for its nourishing and therapeutic properties. It is often used in treatments for skin diseases like Kushtha due to its cooling effects and ability to carry therapeutic herbs into the body. Ghrita supports overall health and well-being.

19) Pathya:
Pathya denotes dietary and lifestyle practices deemed beneficial for health in Ayurveda. Foods considered Pathya support recovery from ailments by harmonizing Doshas. Following a Pathya regimen is vital for effective management of conditions like Kushtha, promoting healing and preventing further complications.

20) Raktamokshana (Raktamoksana, Rakta-mokshana):
Raktamokshana is a detoxification therapy in Ayurveda that involves removing impure blood from the body. It is employed in treating skin disorders and diseases associated with blood impurity. This process aids in restoring balance and preventing complications, emphasizing the importance of effective blood health management.

21) Tridoshaja (Tridosaja):
Tridoshaja refers to disorders that arise from the imbalance of all three Doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Many skin diseases, including Kushtha, exhibit Tridoshaja characteristics. Understanding this classification aids in devising comprehensive treatment plans that address the symptoms associated with each Dosha's imbalance.

22) Lakshana (Laksana):
Lakshana indicates the specific signs and symptoms of a disease in Ayurveda. Recognizing Lakshana is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. For skin disorders like Kushtha, understanding the Lakshana assists practitioners in tailoring interventions based on the unique presentation of the condition.

23) Kshudra (Ksudra):
Kshudra refers to minor or less severe types of diseases in Ayurveda. Kshudra Kushtha, for example, includes various skin disorders that may not pose serious health threats but still require attention. Recognizing Kshudra diseases helps prioritize treatments focusing on restoring skin health and comfort.

24) Nature:
Nature encompasses the inherent qualities and characteristics of substances, Doshas, and the environment in Ayurveda. Understanding nature helps practitioners evaluate how various elements influence health and contribute to disease. It informs treatment choices, fostering a holistic approach to healing and wellness.

25) Mamsa (Mamsha):
Mamsa refers to muscle tissue in Ayurveda and is one of the seven Dhatus that comprise the body. It plays a crucial role in supporting bodily structure and health. The condition of Mamsa can affect overall vitality and resilience, influencing the manifestation of various diseases.

26) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa signifies the taste of a substance in Ayurveda, linked to its therapeutic properties. Each taste corresponds to specific effects on the body, influencing digestion and health. Understanding Rasa is vital for dietary choices and herbal formulations, vital in managing conditions like Kushtha.

27) Rupa:
Rupa pertains to the form or appearance of a substance, including skin lesions in Ayurveda. Recognizing Rupa is crucial for diagnosing diseases, particularly skin conditions. Accurate assessment of Rupa assists practitioners in developing targeted treatment strategies based on visible manifestations.

28) Triphala (Tri-phala):
Triphala is a renowned herbal formulation in Ayurveda, consisting of three fruits: Amalaki, Bibhitaki, and Haritaki. It is praised for its digestive, detoxifying, and rejuvenating properties. Often recommended for balancing all three Doshas, Triphala supports overall health and wellness and is beneficial in managing chronic conditions.

29) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiation indicates the process of imbalance or disturbance in Doshas, Dhatus, or bodily systems. Understanding vitiation is crucial for diagnosing diseases and guiding treatment plans. Remedies in Ayurveda seek to address and rectify vitiation to restore health and enhance overall well-being.

30) Snigdha:
Snigdha denotes a quality of oiliness or smoothness in Ayurvedic terms, often associated with Kapha. It plays a significant role in promoting moisture and nourishment within the body. Understanding Snigdha is crucial when considering treatments for skin conditions, as it can enhance healing and comfort.

31) Apathya:
Apathya refers to harmful or contraindicated substances and practices in Ayurveda that can exacerbate health issues. Identifying Apathya foods and behaviors is vital in managing conditions like Kushtha, guiding individuals toward choices that promote healing and balance while avoiding further complications.

32) Dushya (Dusya):
Dushya refers to the materials affected or involved in a disease process in Ayurveda. The Dushya can vary depending on the specific ailment. In the context of Kushtha, Dushya would include skin and blood, emphasizing the need for tailored treatment approaches targeting these affected areas.

33) Vyadhin (Vyadhi):
Vyadhi means disease or disorder in Ayurveda, encompassing various health conditions resulting from Dosha imbalance. Understanding Vyadhi is fundamental for diagnosis and treatment planning, allowing practitioners to align therapeutic strategies with the specific qualities and symptoms associated with each disorder.

34) Taila (Thaila):
Taila, or oil, is significant in Ayurvedic treatments used to nourish, lubricate, and promote healing. Various oils possess unique properties that can support therapies for skin conditions, enhancing the effectiveness of treatments like Abhyanga (oil massage) and Lepa (application of herbal paste to the skin).

35) Dhatu:
Dhatu refers to the seven fundamental tissues in Ayurveda: Rasa (plasma), Rakta (blood), Mamsa (muscle), Meda (fat), Asthi (bone), Majja (bone marrow), and Shukra (reproductive fluid). Each Dhatu plays an essential role in maintaining health, and their balance is crucial for overall wellbeing and disease prevention.

36) Lepa:
Lepa refers to topical applications or herbal pastes applied to the skin in Ayurveda for therapeutic purposes. These treatments target localized conditions like Kushtha, offering direct relief from symptoms while contributing to the healing process. Lepa often includes a mixture of medicinal herbs blended with a base, such as ghee or oil.

37) Food:
Food in Ayurveda is considered one of the primary factors affecting health. The principles of Ahara (diet) focus on how various foods can balance or disturb the Doshas. Emphasizing a diet aligned with one's constitution is vital for health maintenance and recovery from diseases like Kushtha.

38) Kaphapitta (Kapha-pitta):
Kapha-pitta denotes a combination of two Doshas that can influence health and disease manifestation. Understanding this combination is crucial in Ayurveda as it informs the treatment approach, often requiring tailored interventions to restore balance and address the unique features of illnesses associated with this Dosha makeup.

39) Adhishthana (Adhisthana):
Adhisthana refers to the site or location of a disease in Ayurveda. Identifying Adhisthana helps practitioners understand where the pathological process occurs, guiding targeted treatments and therapies to effectively address symptoms and underlying imbalances specific to that location within the body.

40) Samprapti:
Samprapti denotes the process of disease manifestation and development in Ayurveda, encompassing the interaction of Doshas, Dushyas, and environmental factors. Analyzing Samprapti aids practitioners in understanding the etiology of conditions like Kushtha, allowing for comprehensive treatment strategies tailored to address the root causes of the disease.

41) Substance:
Substance refers to any material, including food, herbs, or drugs, used in Ayurvedic practices for healing and treatment. The properties and characteristics of substances are carefully analyzed to ensure compatibility with an individual's Dosha and conditions, making substance selection critical in Ayurveda's therapeutic interventions.

42) Tridosha (Tridosa, Tri-dosha):
Tridosha is the Ayurvedic concept of the three fundamental energies: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha that govern the body's physiology. Each person has a unique Dosha constitution. Balancing Tridosha is central to maintaining health and preventing disease; practitioners focus on harmonizing these energies through dietary and lifestyle adjustments.

43) Abhyanga (Abhyamga):
Abhyanga refers to the practice of oil massage in Ayurveda, which promotes circulation and rejuvenation while alleviating tension. Often used in conjunction with herbal oils, Abhyanga supports overall health, particularly for skin disorders, as it nourishes the skin and aids detoxification processes.

44) Sarshapa (Sarsapa):
Sarshapa, or mustard, is a commonly used herb in Ayurveda, appreciated for its warming and stimulating properties. It is often included in food and treatments, playing a role in improving digestion and metabolism. In skin care, Sarshapa oil is sometimes utilized for its therapeutic effects.

45) Annapana (Anna-pana):
Annapana signifies the consumption of food and drinks in Ayurveda. The principle emphasizes mindful eating habits tailored to individual characteristics and current health conditions. Proper Annapana practices are essential for maintaining balance among Doshas and ensuring optimal health and nutrition.

46) Samanya:
Samanya refers to general principles or factors in Ayurveda that apply broadly across different individuals or conditions. Understanding Samanya aspects helps practitioners tailor treatments to suit patients' specific needs while considering common features shared among various diseases, including those of the skin.

47) Khadira:
Khadira is a medicinal tree commonly referenced in Ayurveda for its astringent properties. Its bark is utilized to formulate treatments for various skin conditions, promoting purification. Khadira's applications highlight the importance of botanical sources in addressing skin diseases and restoring balance.

48) Parusha (Parusa):
Parusha denotes roughness or hardness in physical constitution, a quality often associated with vitiated Vata in Ayurveda. Understanding Parusha helps practitioners identify imbalances and develop treatments to soothe affected areas, particularly in skin conditions leading to rough or harsh textures on the epidermis.

49) Itching:
Itching is a common symptom associated with various skin diseases, including Kushtha. In Ayurveda, it often indicates an imbalance of Doshas, especially involving Pitta and Kapha. Addressing itching effectively requires identifying its root causes and implementing treatment strategies focused on soothing irritation and restoring skin health.

50) Dravya:
Dravya refers to any physical substance in Ayurveda, encompassing a wide range of materials utilized for treatment purposes. Understanding the therapeutic properties of different Dravyas is vital in creating effective Ayurvedic remedies tailored to individual health needs and promoting healing.

51) Purana:
Purana refers to aged or matured substances in Ayurveda that are valued for their therapeutic properties. In the context of treatments, Purana substances may enhance the efficacy of herbal formulations, contributing to the overall healing process by promoting stability and balance within the body.

52) Vritta (Vrtta):
Vritta indicates a circular or oval shape often noted in lesions associated with skin diseases in Ayurveda. Recognizing Vritta helps practitioners assess and diagnose conditions accurately. This observation is important in customizing treatment strategies based on the specific manifestations of skin disorders.

53) Sthana:
Sthana refers to the location or site of a pathological process within the body in Ayurveda. Identifying Sthana is critical for diagnosis and treatment planning. It provides insights into where therapeutic interventions may be most effective for addressing specific conditions, aiding in localized healing approaches.

54) Vamana:
Vamana is a therapeutic method in Ayurveda involving induced vomiting to eliminate excess Kapha and toxins from the body. It plays a vital role in Shodhana therapies, particularly for conditions where Kapha imbalance contributes to disease, helping restore balance and improve overall health.

55) Lasika:
Lasika denotes a form of fluid or lymph in Ayurveda, considered crucial to bodily health. It plays a role in nourishing tissues and facilitating detoxification. Understanding Lasika is essential for managing diseases, particularly those where fluid balance is disrupted, such as skin disorders.

56) Kumari:
Kumari refers to a female or daughter in Sanskrit, often used in Ayurvedic texts to denote practitioners or researchers. It highlights the contributions from different individuals, particularly women in the field of Ayurveda, advancing knowledge and treatment principles for various health conditions.

57) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
Sharma is often a surname in India, but it can also be used to designate individuals engaged in traditional practices such as Ayurveda. The name signifies the collective contributions of various practitioners advocating for the practice and preservation of Ayurvedic wisdom and health strategies.

58) Dadhi:
Dadhi refers to curd or yogurt in Ayurveda, recognized for its probiotic properties. It plays a significant role in promoting digestive health and balancing Agni (digestive fire). Incorporating Dadhi can enhance nutritional value, aiding recovery from digestive ailments and contributing to skin health.

59) Tikta:
Tikta pertains to the bitter taste associated with certain Ayurvedic herbs. Often regarded for their purifying and detoxifying qualities, Tikta herbs are useful in managing various health conditions by fostering balance among Doshas and enhancing bodily functions related to digestion and cleansing.

60) Ghana:
Ghana refers to a dense or thick quality in Ayurvedic terminology, often associated with substances or conditions. Understanding Ghana is crucial for evaluating the efficacy of treatments, particularly those intended to address conditions with symptoms of heaviness or excessive bulk.

61) Nimba:
Nimba, or Neem, is a significant medicinal tree in Ayurveda known for its broad range of therapeutic benefits. Often used for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, Nimba plays an essential role in treating skin disorders and promoting overall health, especially in detoxification and immune support.

62) Maha (Maha°):
Maha signifies greatness or significance in Sanskrit, indicating the impact and importance of treatments or diseases within the Ayurvedic framework. It is often used to categorize severe or profound health issues that necessitate comprehensive approaches to therapy, particularly concerning chronic and complicated conditions.

63) Roga:
Roga denotes a disease or disorder in Ayurveda, reflecting patterns of dysfunction within the body. Understanding Roga is critical for diagnosing ailments, notably in skin health. The classification of Roga guides therapeutic approaches, aligning treatment with the underlying causes and symptoms.

64) Pana:
Pana refers to drinking in Ayurveda, specifically associated with the consumption of medicinal liquids or therapeutic preparations. Proper Pana practices incorporate attentiveness to the type and timing of liquids consumed, directly influencing health outcomes and contributing to healing processes.

65) Daha:
Daha refers to a burning sensation often experienced during skin disorders associated with Pitta imbalance in Ayurveda. Addressing Daha involves balancing Pitta to alleviate discomfort and restore skin health through dietary and therapeutic adjustments aimed at cooling and soothing the affected areas.

66) Burning sensation:
Burning sensation is often a symptom of skin conditions, notably those linked to Pitta excess. Understanding this symptom is crucial for diagnosing and treating various ailments in Ayurveda, focusing on restoring balance through targeted therapies that address the underlying causes of discomfort.

67) Kinakharasparsha (Kinakharasparsa):
Kinakharasparsha refers to a specific type of skin texture characterized by severe scaling and roughness, commonly associated with conditions like Kushtha. Recognizing Kinakharasparsha assists practitioners in identifying skin disorders accurately, allowing for effective interventions that target the underlying causes of these symptoms.

68) Sarshapataila (Sarsapataila, Sarshapa-taila):
Sarshapa-taila refers to mustard oil commonly used in Ayurveda for its warming properties and potential therapeutic effects. It is often applied externally in various skin treatments, enhancing circulation and promoting healing in conditions associated with dry or inflamed skin.

69) Vimanasthana (Vimana-sthana):
Vimana-sthana is a section in Ayurvedic texts focusing on the science of specificity in diagnosis and treatment. It emphasizes the importance of understanding various medicinal procedures and herbs used for treating specific ailments, guiding practitioners in effective therapeutic strategies tailored to individual needs.

70) Mandukaparni (Manduka-parni, Mamdukaparni):
Mandukaparni, or Gotu Kola, is a potent herb in Ayurveda known for promoting cognitive function and enhancing skin health. Its properties aid in rejuvenation and detoxification, making it valuable in formulations designed to treat skin disorders and support overall well-being.

71) Purification:
Purification refers to the process of cleansing the body of toxins and impurities in Ayurveda. It involves various practices, including detoxification therapies such as Shodhana, aimed at restoring balance and promoting overall health, especially for chronic diseases like Kushtha.

72) Samshodhana (Samsodhana):
Samsodhana denotes the process of purification in Ayurveda, specifically geared towards detoxifying the body and removing vitiated Doshas. This approach is fundamental in treating chronic conditions like Kushtha, offering a pathway to restore health and prevent disease progression through targeted cleansing methods.

73) Apakarshana (Apakarsana):
Apakarshana involves the therapeutic methods aimed at alleviating symptoms and promoting healing in Ayurveda. It includes various treatments designed to lighten or eliminate disease manifestations, emphasizing the importance of tailored therapeutic approaches to address specific individual health conditions.

74) Agnimandya (Agni-mandya, Agnimamdya):
Agnimandhya refers to a state of impaired digestive fire in Ayurveda, leading to various health issues, including skin disorders. Addressing Agnimandhya is essential for restoring overall health; therapies focus on enhancing digestion and metabolism to facilitate effective treatment of conditions like Kushtha.

75) Purvakarma (Purvakarman, Purva-karman):
Purva-karma refers to preparatory procedures in Ayurveda that occur before administering the main treatment. These steps are critical for ensuring the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions, allowing practitioners to optimize treatment outcomes by preparing the patient and the body appropriately for healing.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 227]