Case study: Ayurvedic treatment for hypertrophic lichen planus.
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: A single case study of treating hypertrophic lichen planus with ayurvedic medicines
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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Amar A. Kuhikar and G. H. Kodwani
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: A single case study of treating hypertrophic lichen planus with ayurvedic medicines
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20207-17844
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Ayurvedic medicine, rooted in the ancient Indian science of life, is increasingly recognized for its efficacy in treating chronic disorders. One such disorder, Hypertrophic Lichen Planus (HLP), is a rare, inflammatory skin condition that can lead to serious complications, including squamous cell carcinoma. The condition mimics an ailment called Charma Kushtha in Ayurveda, indicating a potential for Ayurvedic intervention in HLP treatment. This case study presents a 25-year-old male patient with long-standing HLP treated successfully using Ayurvedic modalities after being dependent on corticosteroids for many years.
Understanding Hypertrophic Lichen Planus
Hypertrophic Lichen Planus is characterized as a chronic variant of lichen planus, believed to stem from autoimmune reactions coupled with genetic predisposition. Its manifestation includes significant epidermal hyperplasia, driven by persistent itching and exacerbated by stress. This condition primarily affects the basal epidermis, where T lymphocytes launch an attack, leading to distinctive clinical and histological changes. The treatment options for HLP have traditionally included corticosteroids and various other medications; however, these interventions often yield unsatisfactory results and can introduce unwanted side effects.
Ayurvedic Treatment Approach
The Ayurvedic approach to treating HLP involves a complex combination of internal and external herbal formulations, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle modifications based on the principles of Nidanam (causative factors), Dosha involvement, and disease nature. During the treatment of the presented case, a range of specific Ayurvedic medicines was prescribed, including Aarogyavardhini vati, Triphala Guggul, and Khadirarishtha. The treatment aimed to relieve symptoms like pruritus and diminish the size of skin lesions. Positive outcomes were closely monitored through regular follow-ups and photographic documentation.
Effects and Progress in Treatment
Throughout the treatment duration, the patient exhibited significant improvements in symptoms. Initially, there was only a mild decrease in itching, but over time, treatments combined with local applications such as Karanj tail began to yield moderate to substantial decreases in pruritus. By the end of the treatment process, the patient reported no itching and notable changes in the skin condition, including drying of lesions and reduced pigmentation. The thorough follow-up system confirmed the absence of adverse side effects and recurrence of lesions.
Conclusion
The case study highlights the potential of Ayurvedic medicine as a viable alternative to conventional treatments for Hypertrophic Lichen Planus. The favorable outcomes observed in the patient, including symptom relief and improved quality of life, suggest that Ayurvedic interventions can be effective for chronic skin conditions notoriously resistant to other therapies. This study encourages further exploration of Ayurvedic principles to develop comprehensive strategies in managing not just HLP but various lifestyle and chronic disorders.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Hypertrophic Lichen Planus (HLP) and its causes?
Hypertrophic Lichen Planus is a chronic autoimmune skin condition. Its etiology is unknown but may have links to genetic predisposition, drug reactions, or infections like hepatitis B and C.
How does Ayurveda classify skin diseases like HLP?
In Ayurveda, skin diseases, including HLP, fall under 'Kushtha.' HLP resembles 'Charma Kushtha,' characterized by thickened skin and requires treatments targeting involved doshas.
What treatments were previously utilized for the patient with HLP?
The patient underwent various therapies, including systemic steroids, antihistamines, homeopathy, and Ayurvedic medicines, with limited effectiveness until Ayurvedic interventions showed significant improvement.
What Ayurvedic treatments were administered to the patient?
The patient received treatments like Aarogyavardhini vati, Triphala Guggul, Khadirarishtha, and local applications, focusing on dietary and lifestyle modifications to manage the condition.
How effective were the Ayurvedic treatments for the patient with HLP?
The Ayurvedic treatments led to a significant reduction in itching and improvement in the lesions over the treatment period of one year, with no observed side effects.
What are the benefits of Ayurvedic treatments compared to conventional methods?
Ayurvedic treatments are often safer, more cost-effective, and focus on lifestyle modifications, offering an alternative for chronic conditions like HLP that don't respond well to conventional therapies.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Case study: Ayurvedic treatment for hypertrophic lichen planus.”. 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) Itching:
Itching refers to the uncomfortable sensation that prompts the desire to scratch the skin. In the context of hypertrophic lichen planus, it is a predominant symptom that significantly affects the quality of life of patients, often leading to inflammation and exacerbation of the skin condition due to ongoing irritation.
2) Kushtha (Kustha):
Kushtha is an Ayurvedic term denoting a category of skin diseases, often chronic in nature. It is essential in Ayurveda for classifying various dermatological conditions, emphasizing the importance of factors such as Dosha imbalances and treatment methodologies aimed at restoring skin health through holistic approaches.
3) Vati:
Vati refers to a form of Ayurvedic medicine typically composed of finely powdered herbs in a pill or tablet form. It is significant for delivering concentrated herbal therapies effectively, facilitating easy ingestion and adherence to treatment regimens for chronic conditions like hypertrophic lichen planus.
4) Disease:
Diseases are pathological conditions that disrupt normal physiological functions. The study emphasizes a specific skin disease, hypertrophic lichen planus while highlighting the significance of effective treatment options to manage chronic skin diseases through both conventional and Ayurvedic practices.
5) Drug:
Drugs in this context refer to medicinal substances that are utilized for therapeutic purposes. The comparison of Ayurvedic drugs to conventional medicines highlights the exploration of various approaches in managing chronic skin diseases like hypertrophic lichen planus, evaluating their safety and efficacy.
6) Triphala (Tri-phala):
Triphala is a traditional Ayurvedic formulation made from three fruits (Haritaki, Amalaki, and Bibhitaki). It is renowned for its detoxifying and rejuvenating properties, often used to support digestion and strengthen the immune system, making it relevant in the treatment of chronic skin conditions like lichen planus.
7) Sariva (Shariva):
Sariva, or Hemidesmus indicus, is an important herb in Ayurveda known for its cooling and detoxifying effects. It is often used in the treatment of skin disorders due to its anti-inflammatory and blood-purifying properties, which can aid in the management of conditions like hypertrophic lichen planus.
8) Medicine:
Medicine refers to substances or practices used in the treatment of illness or injury. In the context of the study, it highlights diverse treatment methodologies, including both Ayurvedic and conventional approaches, and their implications for chronic conditions such as hypertrophic lichen planus.
9) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that emphasizes balance in bodily systems through diet, herbal treatment, and yogic practices. Its relevance in treating various diseases, including skin conditions like hypertrophic lichen planus, lies in its holistic approach that considers the individual's constitution and environmental factors.
10) Nagapura (Naga-pura):
Nagpur is a city in Maharashtra, India, serving as a significant location for this case study. It represents the place where the Ayurvedic College conducted the research on treating hypertrophic lichen planus, emphasizing the integration of traditional practices in healthcare within regional settings.
11) Maharashtra (Maharastra, Maha-rashtra):
Maharashtra is a state in western India, housing various educational and healthcare institutions, including the Ayurvedic College in Nagpur. Its relevance in the study signifies the regional application of Ayurvedic practices and the accessibility of traditional remedies for managing chronic skin diseases.
12) Carman (Carma):
Charma refers to the skin in Ayurvedic terminology. It is pivotal in understanding skin diseases, such as hypertrophic lichen planus, as it directly relates to conditions classified as Kushtha, emphasizing the need for targeted treatments focusing on skin health and its restoration.
13) Manjishtha (Manjistha, Mamjishtha):
Manjishtha, or Rubia cordifolia, is an Ayurvedic herb known for its blood-purifying and anti-inflammatory properties. Its usage in treating skin disorders highlights its significance in formulations aimed at alleviating symptoms of hypertrophic lichen planus and promoting skin rejuvenation.
14) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosha represents the fundamental energies or biological humors in Ayurvedic philosophy that govern physiological functions. Understanding the predominant Dosha involved in a condition like hypertrophic lichen planus is critical for effective diagnosis and treatment, guiding practitioners in personalized therapeutic strategies.
15) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three Doshas in Ayurveda, characterized by qualities such as heaviness, stability, and moisture. Its involvement in hypertrophic lichen planus implies the need to balance these attributes through dietary and lifestyle modifications, aiming for optimal health.
16) India:
India is the birthplace of Ayurveda, making it significant for the study of traditional medicinal practices. The cultural and historical context enriches the understanding of various treatments for conditions such as hypertrophic lichen planus, focusing on holistic health and preventative care.
17) Visit:
Visits denote the follow-up appointments where patients receive care and assessment. The importance of regular visits in the management of chronic skin conditions like hypertrophic lichen planus ensures ongoing evaluation of treatment effectiveness, allowing for necessary modifications based on the patient's progress.
18) Life:
Life encompasses the biological and experiential aspects of existence, emphasizing health and well-being. In Ayurveda, maintaining a balanced life is crucial for preventing diseases and promoting longevity, particularly regarding chronic conditions that threaten overall quality of life, such as hypertrophic lichen planus.
19) Elephant:
Elephant is used metaphorically in Ayurveda to describe certain skin conditions characterized by thickened skin, likened to the elephant's hide. This analogy is relevant in understanding conditions like Charma Kushtha, correlating to hypertrophic lichen planus when discussing symptoms and pathophysiology.
20) Kshudra (Ksudra):
Kshudra refers to minor or lesser diseases in Ayurveda. In the context of skin disorders, it is relevant for classifying conditions like Kushtha, indicating the need for targeted treatments that consider the nature and severity of the symptoms presented.
21) Surface:
Surface pertains to the outer layer of skin affected by conditions like hypertrophic lichen planus. This term underscores the importance of evaluating the visible changes in skin lesions during treatment, emphasizing the role of external therapies in restoration and healing.
22) Rakta:
Rakta translates to 'blood' in Ayurveda and is essential for understanding the biochemical and physiological processes underlying skin diseases. Its relevance in managing conditions like hypertrophic lichen planus emphasizes the significance of blood purification methods and their effects on overall health.
23) Blood:
Blood is vital for transporting nutrients and oxygen throughout the body, while also being central in the body’s inflammatory response. In the context of dermatology, studying blood dynamics helps in understanding chronic inflammatory conditions like hypertrophic lichen planus and formulating effective treatments.
24) Study (Studying):
Study refers to the systematic investigation or examination of a specific subject. In the context of Ayurvedic medicine, the study of hypertrophic lichen planus highlights alternative treatment options and their effectiveness in managing chronic conditions that are often resistant to conventional therapies.
25) Vata:
Vata is another of the three Doshas in Ayurveda, characterized by qualities such as movement and changeability. Its involvement in skin conditions indicates the importance of balancing Vata through dietary and lifestyle changes to achieve optimal skin health and manage chronic diseases effectively.
26) Sign:
Sign refers to observable or measurable indications of a condition. In hypertrophic lichen planus, identifying clinical signs helps in diagnosing the disease and evaluating treatment efficacy, allowing practitioners to tailor interventions and track patient responses over time.
27) Blood letting:
Blood letting is an ancient therapeutic practice aimed at removing excess blood or toxins from the body. In Ayurveda, it is considered a purification method in treating skin diseases like hypertrophic lichen planus, aimed at restoring balance and alleviating symptoms.
28) Raktamokshana (Raktamoksana, Rakta-mokshana):
Rakta-mokshana is an Ayurvedic procedure for blood purification, aligning with practices intended to detoxify the body and treat various ailments. Its use in cases of hypertrophic lichen planus illustrates an integrative approach to managing chronic skin conditions through traditional healing methods.
29) Blood-letting:
Blood-letting, as a historical practice in medicine, involves withdrawing blood to treat illness. While it may sound archaic, its application in Ayurveda as Rakta-mokshana provides insight into alternative therapeutic avenues explored for skin diseases like hypertrophic lichen planus.
30) Purification:
Purification is a process aimed at removing toxins and restoring balance within the body, pivotal in Ayurveda. It highlights the importance of detoxification methods in addressing the root causes of chronic skin conditions and enhancing overall health and well-being.
31) Kushthaghna (Kusthaghna):
Kushthaghna refers to medicines or treatments specifically targeting skin diseases. Its relevance in the study showcases the targeted approach of Ayurvedic formulations aiming to alleviate symptoms and address the underlying pathophysiology of conditions like hypertrophic lichen planus.
32) Samshodhana (Samsodhana):
Samshodhana is a process of detoxification and purification in Ayurveda. It plays a critical role in treating skin conditions by removing harmful substances from the body, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of subsequent healing treatments and promoting recovery in chronic diseases.
33) Kaphadosha (Kaphadosa, Kapha-dosha):
Kapha-dosha, characterized by qualities like solidity and stability, is crucial in understanding the pathology of certain skin diseases. Recognizing its role allows for tailored Ayurvedic treatments aimed at balancing Kapha, thus addressing skin conditions like hypertrophic lichen planus effectively.
34) Observation:
Observation entails the act of monitoring and documenting changes in a patient's condition. In the context of Ayurvedic treatment for hypertrophic lichen planus, thorough observation of symptoms and skin lesions is essential for adjusting treatment and evaluating outcomes over time.
35) Samshamana (Samsamana):
Samshamana involves the management and mitigation of symptoms without eliminating the underlying cause. In Ayurvedic practice, it provides a framework for treating chronic conditions like hypertrophic lichen planus through symptomatic relief therapies, focusing on improving patient quality of life.
36) Discussion:
Discussion refers to the critical exchange and analysis of information surrounding a particular topic. In the context of this case study, it emphasizes the exploration of different treatment options for hypertrophic lichen planus, drawing insights from both Ayurveda and conventional medicine.
37) Similarity:
Similarity denotes the common characteristics shared between different conditions or entities. In this study, the similarity between Charma Kushtha and hypertrophic lichen planus underlines the Ayurveda's relevance in recognizing patterns and guiding treatment in chronic dermatological disorders.
38) Shatavari (Satavari):
Shatavari, or Asparagus racemosus, is an Ayurvedic herb known for its nourishing and rejuvenating properties. It is particularly beneficial in supporting female reproductive health and can also aid in managing stress, making it relevant in holistic treatments for chronic conditions like lichen planus.
39) Kandughna (Kandu-ghna):
Kandughna refers to properties of herbal medicines that alleviate itching. Its significance in treating conditions like hypertrophic lichen planus highlights the importance of specific Ayurvedic formulations targeting symptomatic relief, enhancing patient comfort during treatment.
40) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiation refers to the alteration or disturbance of natural balance within the body, particularly concerning Doshas. Understanding vitiation is crucial in Ayurveda for diagnosing and treating diseases, as it guides the practitioner in restoring harmony and function within affected systems.
41) Mokshana (Moksana):
Mokshana translates to 'liberation' or 'purification' and signifies a crucial aspect of Ayurvedic treatment focused on detoxifying the body. Its relevance is highlighted in managing chronic conditions like hypertrophic lichen planus by addressing underlying imbalances and promoting healing.
42) Allergy:
Allergy denotes an adverse immune response to a substance, leading to symptoms like itching or inflammation. The relevance in the context of hypertrophic lichen planus involves understanding potential trigger factors and their management to prevent exacerbations of the skin condition.
43) Anxiety:
Anxiety represents emotional distress commonly associated with chronic diseases. In the context of hypertrophic lichen planus, the psychological impact emphasizes the need for comprehensive treatment approaches, integrating mental health support with physical therapies to improve overall patient outcomes.
44) Science (Scientific):
Science refers to the systematic study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world. Its relevance in this study of Ayurvedic treatments lies in the increasing exploration and validation of traditional practices through scientific methods, bridging the gap between ancient knowledge and modern healthcare.
45) Lasika:
Lasika refers to the lymphatic system within Ayurveda, implicating its role in bodily purification and health. Thus, understanding lasika’s contribution is essential when addressing chronic conditions like hypertrophic lichen planus, as well as ensuring a holistic approach in treatment strategies.
46) Shunthi (Sunthi, Sumthi, Shumthi):
Sunthi, or ginger, is an energizing herb with numerous health benefits, including anti-inflammatory effects. Its inclusion in Ayurvedic treatments for skin conditions underlines the value of integrating traditional herbal remedies to relieve symptoms and support overall health effectively.
47) Vyadhin (Vyadhi):
Vyadhi signifies disease or ailment in Ayurveda. Understanding the classification of vyadhi, including conditions like hypertrophic lichen planus, is fundamental for developing comprehensive Ayurvedic interventions that focus on restoring health and balance in patients.
48) Cancer:
Cancer refers to a group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth and proliferation. Its relevance in the context of hypertrophic lichen planus pertains to the potential risk of progression to malignancy, necessitating careful monitoring and management strategies within therapeutic protocols.
49) Nature:
Nature encompasses the inherent characteristics and properties of organisms, including diseases. In Ayurveda, recognizing the nature of conditions helps guide treatment approaches, ensuring that therapies are tailored to address specific symptoms and underlying imbalances effectively.
50) Pitta:
Pitta is one of the vital doshas in Ayurveda, associated with heat, metabolism, and transformation. Identifying the Pitta imbalance in patients with skin conditions like hypertrophic lichen planus helps practitioners focus on appropriate dietary and lifestyle interventions to restore balance and health.
51) Mamsa (Mamsha):
Mamsa refers to muscle and flesh in Ayurvedic terminology. Its relevance arises in the context of understanding the systemic involvement of body tissues in diseases, reflecting the holistic approach of Ayurveda where all bodily systems interact and influence each other in health and disease.
52) Maha (Maha°):
Maha signifies the term 'great' or 'major' in Ayurveda. Although it typically refers to significant or serious conditions, it emphasizes the classification and differentiation of skin diseases, contextually relevant in discussions surrounding hypertrophic lichen planus treatment and management.
53) Male:
Male indicates the gender of the individual in the case study. Recognition of demographic factors like gender is crucial in understanding skin disorders, as it may influence disease presentation, treatment responses, and social implications surrounding chronic dermatological conditions.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Case study: Ayurvedic treatment for hypertrophic lichen planus.’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Dosha, Raktamokshana, Kshudrakushtha, Mahakushtha, Blood-letting, Chronic illness, Ayurvedic medicine, Pruritus, Case report, Lifestyle disorder, Charma Kushtha, Aarogyavardhini Vati, Hypertrophic lichen planus, Conventional therapy, Squamous cell carcinoma, Dietary and Lifestyle Modification, Triphala Guggul, Epidermal hyperplasia, Noncommunicable disorders.