Ayurvedic treatment of eka-kushta in psoriasis: a case study

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Ayurvedic treatment of eka-kushta in psoriasis: a case study”. 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) Karma (Karman):
In Ayurveda, 'Karma' refers to the actions or therapies undertaken to treat a patient. The concept is essential as it encompasses a holistic approach to healing, involving various techniques like Vamana, Panchakarma, and dietary changes that restore balance and promote health. Each Karma is chosen based on individual patient needs.

2) Itching:
'Itching' is a common symptom associated with many skin conditions, including Ekakushtha (Psoriasis). It signifies an underlying imbalance of Doshas, particularly Kapha and Vata. In Ayurvedic treatment, addressing itching involves identifying the cause, utilizing herbal remedies, and employing techniques that soothe the skin and reduce irritation effectively.

3) Dosha (Dosa):
'Dosha' represents the three fundamental energies (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) that govern physiological and psychological functions in Ayurvedic medicine. The balance among Doshas is vital for health, and their imbalance leads to diseases. Understanding a patient's Dosha constitution is crucial for tailoring personalized treatment and dietary plans.

4) Kapha:
'Kapha' is one of the three Doshas in Ayurvedic medicine, associated with water and earth elements. It is responsible for structure, stability, and lubrication in the body. An imbalance of Kapha can provoke heavy, stagnant conditions, such as obesity and mucous production, highlighting its role in diseases like Ekakushtha.

5) Patil:
'Patil' refers to Dr. Shraddha Dnyandev Patil, a key author of the case study. Her research and contributions to Ayurvedic management of skin disorders emphasize the integration of traditional practices with modern medical understandings. This highlights the growing importance of individuals in advancing Ayurvedic knowledge and treatment methodologies.

6) Table:
'Table' in this context refers to the organized presentation of data or observations in a structured format. The use of tables enhances clarity in medical documents by enabling easy comparison and reference of symptoms, treatment protocols, and progress, allowing practitioners to assess the efficacy of interventions systematically.

7) Shodhana (Sodhana):
'Shodhana' translates to purification in Ayurveda, representing therapeutic techniques that detoxify the body from accumulated toxins (Ama). This procedure, essential for treating chronic conditions, helps restore balance among Doshas, particularly in disorders like Ekakushtha, making it a fundamental aspect of holistic healing practices.

8) Disease:
'Diseases' refer to various health conditions resulting from imbalances in the body's Doshas or environmental factors. Understanding the nature and cause of these diseases is essential in Ayurveda, as these insights guide practitioners in formulating individualized treatment strategies aimed at restoring balance and promoting healing.

9) Pulse:
'Pulse' refers to the rhythm and strength of the heartbeat, which plays a significant role in assessing an individual's overall health status in Ayurveda. Pulse examination provides insights into the state of the Doshas, allowing Ayurveda practitioners to evaluate health conditions and plan appropriate therapeutic interventions.

10) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
'Ayurveda' is an ancient system of medicine originating in India focusing on holistic healing, promoting balance between body, mind, and spirit. It employs herbal treatments, dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications tailored to individual constitutions. Ayurveda's principles are increasingly recognized globally for their effectiveness in preventative and curative care.

11) Vamana:
'Vamana' is a therapeutic procedure in Ayurveda involving controlled vomiting to expel Kapha dosha and toxins from the body. It's primarily used in Shodhana therapies for conditions related to excess Kapha, thus aiding detoxification, alleviating symptoms like congestion, and restoring balance in patients suffering from chronic diseases.

12) Ekakushtha (Eka-kushtha, Ekakustha):
'Eka-kushtha' specifies a skin disease in Ayurveda, comparable to psoriasis. The recognition and understanding of Eka-kushtha are essential for tailored treatment approaches that address the particular symptoms and Dosha imbalances, aiming to alleviate discomfort and promote skin health.

13) Medicine:
'Medicines' in Ayurveda encompass a range of natural substances, including herbs and minerals, utilized to treat health conditions. The selection of appropriate medicines is vital for ensuring effective management of symptoms and supporting the body’s healing processes based on individual imbalances.

14) Vega:
'Vega' indicates the urge or natural impulse in Ayurvedic context, particularly relating to bodily functions such as digestion and detoxification. Awareness of Vega is fundamental in Ayurvedic treatments like Vamana, where the control and expression of these urges are managed to ensure successful purification outcomes.

15) Observation:
'Observations' in medical practice refer to the information collected during a patient's examination and treatment process. In Ayurveda, detailed observations of symptoms, responses to therapies, and overall health are essential for modifying treatment approaches and improving therapeutic outcomes for conditions like Ekakushtha.

16) Pradhana:
'Pradhana' refers to primary or main actions taken in treatment. In the Ayurvedic context, identifying the Pradhana therapy allows for focused intervention on the most significant aspects of a patient's condition, facilitating more effective management, especially in complex cases like Ekakushtha.

17) Dugdha:
'Dugdha' means milk and is significant in Ayurvedic diets and treatments because of its nourishing properties. It serves as a key ingredient in many Ayurvedic preparations, providing essential nutrients and promoting balance, especially during detoxification therapies like Vamana, where milk is often used.

18) Vyadhin (Vyadhi):
'Vyadhi' denotes a disease or illness in the Ayurvedic context. The term encompasses both physical ailments and psychological disorders, emphasizing the holistic view of health in Ayurveda. Understanding Vyadhi is crucial for practitioners to develop appropriate, individualized treatment regimens that address root causes.

19) Study (Studying):
'Study' refers to the systematic investigation of medical cases, like the one on Ekakushtha, to evaluate treatment efficacy and gather insights into disease management. Rigorous study methodologies contribute to the body of Ayurvedic knowledge, facilitating deeper understandings of conditions and their response to therapies.

20) Vata:
'Vata' represents one of the three fundamental Doshas in Ayurveda, primarily associated with air and movement. Vata governs bodily functions such as circulation, respiration, and nerve impulses. An imbalance in Vata can lead to various health issues, necessitating proper assessment and management in Ayurvedic practice.

21) Hand:
'Hand' in this context signifies the anatomical region affected by Ekakushtha (Psoriasis) in the patient's case study. The state of the hands is indicative of the severity of the skin condition, as well as the need for targeted therapies to alleviate symptoms and restore skin health.

22) Lakshana (Laksana):
'Lakshanas' denotes the signs and symptoms associated with a particular disease in Ayurveda. Identifying Lakshanas is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning, ensuring that therapies are tailored to address the specific manifestations of imbalances within the patient's body.

23) Vitiation (Vitiated):
'Vitiated' refers to the imbalance or disturbance of Doshas in the body, leading to disease. In Ayurveda, recognizing vitiated factors is essential for diagnosis and treatment, as the goal of therapy is to restore harmony among the Doshas, thereby promoting health and wellness.

24) Snehana:
'Snehana' denotes the process of oleation or internal and external oiling treatments in Ayurveda. It is important for detoxification, enhancing tissue nourishment, and alleviating symptoms in patients with skin conditions. Snehana plays a critical role in managing conditions like Ekakushtha and supporting overall healing processes.

25) Kushtha (Kustha):
'Kustha' encompasses various skin diseases in Ayurveda. Understanding Kustha is crucial for effective treatment planning, as each condition presents unique challenges related to Dosha imbalances, necessitating a tailored approach that considers individual symptoms and responses to therapies.

26) Pidaka:
'Pidaka' refers to the appearance of pustules or raised lesions in skin diseases. In the context of Ekakushtha, observing Pidaka indicators helps practitioners assess the severity of the condition and adjust treatment strategies accordingly, ensuring targeted and effective management of the patient's skin health.

27) Rakta:
'Rakta' refers to the blood component in Ayurveda, considered vital for overall health and nourishment of body tissues. It plays a central role in purifying and detoxifying treatment paths, as imbalances in Rakta often correlate with various diseases, including skin conditions like Ekakushtha.

28) Blood:
'Blood' is an essential fluid in the body responsible for transporting nutrients, oxygen, and waste products. In Ayurvedic practice, the state of blood influences overall health, and conditions such as Rakta Doshaja diseases can lead to significant health issues, indicating the need for careful management and purification.

29) Daha:
'Daha' denotes burning sensations experienced by patients, often associated with skin disorders like Ekakushtha. It indicates an imbalance of Pitta and Kapha Doshas. Addressing Daha through appropriate treatments is vital for alleviating discomfort and promoting healing in affected patients.

30) Sign:
'Sign' refers to observable indicators of a patient's health condition. In Ayurveda, recognizing specific signs helps in diagnosing diseases and determining the appropriate treatment options needed to restore balance, particularly in chronic conditions like Ekakushtha where clear signs guide therapeutic strategies.

31) Purification:
'Purification' in the Ayurvedic context often relates to Shodhana therapies that detoxify the body by removing vitiated Doshas. It's a fundamental aspect of Ayurvedic healing, crucial for treating chronic conditions like Ekakushtha, where accumulated toxins significantly contribute to the symptoms and disease progression.

32) Maharashtra (Maharastra, Maha-rashtra):
'Maharashtra' is a state in India where the research and case study were conducted. The region's rich Ayurvedic heritage and practices contribute to the treatment methodologies discussed, as local traditions are integrated with modern understanding, enhancing the quality of healthcare within the state.

33) Arogyasala (Arogyashala, Arogya-shala):
'Arogyashala' refers to an Ayurvedic healthcare facility where individuals receive treatments aimed at promoting health and well-being. Such institutions play a critical role in the implementation of Ayurvedic principles, providing a structured environment for patients to undergo detoxification and healing therapies.

34) Purvakarma (Purva-karman, Purvakarman):
'Purvakarma' emphasizes the preparatory stages in Ayurveda, critical for successful therapeutic outcomes. By preparing the body through techniques like oleation and preparatory detoxification, practitioners enhance the effectiveness of subsequent treatments, laying a strong foundation for recovery and balance.

35) Abhyantara (Abhyamtara):
'Abhyantara' relates to internal aspects of treatment in Ayurveda, often concerning internal oleation therapies. These practices are pivotal for addressing deeper imbalances and purifying the body’s internal systems, ensuring a holistic approach to healing that extends beyond surface symptoms.

36) Prakrita (Prakrta):
'Prakrita' refers to the natural or inherent state of balance within the Doshas. Recognizing Prakrita is essential for evaluating an individual's health and identifying any deviations that may lead to disease, thus guiding the treatment process to restore and maintain harmony.

37) Rukshata (Ruksata):
'Rukshata' denotes dryness in skin or body tissues, often manifested in conditions like Ekakushtha. This symptom indicates an imbalance in Vata and Kapha Doshas, necessitating treatments that restore moisture and vitality to the affected areas, promoting healing and skin health.

38) Pippali (Pippalin):
'Pippali' is an Ayurvedic herb known for its digestive and healing properties. It plays a significant role in treatments like Vamana and other detoxification protocols, helping to balance Vata and Kapha doshas while promoting overall health and effective symptom management for skin conditions.

39) Kshudra (Ksudra):
'Kshudra' refers to minor or less severe diseases in Ayurveda, including skin conditions like Ekakushtha. Despite being categorized as minor, these diseases can significantly impact health, underscoring the importance of addressing them with appropriate Ayurvedic therapies and preventive measures.

40) Snigdha:
'Snigdha' signifies the quality of being unctuous or oily in Ayurveda, which is essential for moisture, nourishment, and balance in the body. Treatments targeting Snigdha qualities are crucial for managing dry skin conditions, promoting healing through oil-based therapies and internal oleation methods.

41) Samana (Shamana):
'Shamana' refers to the management of symptoms through pacifying treatments in Ayurveda. It plays a pivotal role in alleviating discomfort and stabilizing Doshas in chronic conditions like Ekakushtha, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive care that targets immediate relief while addressing root causes.

42) Nashik:
'Nashik' is a city in Maharashtra, India, highlighted in the case study as the location where the Ayurveda treatments were administered. The city is known for its Ayurvedic institutions and practitioners, fostering a rich environment for traditional healing practices and herbal medicine.

43) Sneha:
'Sneha' refers to oily substances used in Ayurvedic treatments, crucial for both external and internal therapies. It facilitates the delivery of drugs, enhances nourishment, and aids in detoxification processes, particularly in conditions like Ekakushtha where moisture and healing are essential.

44) Kleda:
'Kleda' stands for moisture or wetness in Ayurveda, expressing the state of the body's tissues. The presence or absence of Kleda is significant in identifying imbalances among Doshas, playing an essential role in treatment strategies aimed at restoring health and equilibrium.

45) Kandu (Kamdu):
'Kandu' refers to itching and scratching sensations, frequently experienced in skin disorders like Ekakushtha. Understanding Kandu is vital for Ayurvedic practitioners to address the underlying causes, implement suitable treatments, and provide relief to patients suffering from these conditions.

46) Purva:
'Purva' means prior or preceding in the context of treatments in Ayurveda. Recognizing the Purva processes allows practitioners to prepare the body for therapeutic interventions effectively, optimizing the chances of successful outcomes in procedures like Vamana.

47) India:
'India' is the birthplace of Ayurveda, a system of medicine that emphasizes natural healing and balances among body, mind, and spirit. The country's rich cultural heritage includes a diverse range of practices and therapies that are integral to Ayurvedic medicine's philosophy and applications.

48) Water:
'Water' plays a critical role in Ayurveda, often considered essential for hydration, digestion, and detoxification. It is used in various treatments and healing protocols, helping to balance Doshas and support overall health, especially in conditions affected by dryness and dehydration.

49) Agni:
'Agni' signifies digestive fire in Ayurveda, crucial for metabolic processes and overall health. Maintaining a balanced Agni is vital for digestion, absorption, and elimination, impacting all bodily functions. Therapies often aim to enhance Agni to restore health, especially when addressing chronic diseases.

50) Rasa (Rasha):
'Rasa' translates to taste and essence in Ayurveda, symbolizing the nutritional and energetic properties of foods and herbs. Understanding Rasa is fundamental in Ayurveda, as it relates to the effects of diet on health and the balance of Doshas, influencing treatment plans.

51) Seva (Sheva):
'Seva' denotes selfless service or care for others. In the context of Ayurveda, it underscores the holistic approach practitioners apply toward healing their patients, prioritizing their well-being and health outcomes through compassionate treatment and support.

52) Guna:
'Gunas' represent the intrinsic qualities or characteristics of substances in Ayurveda. Understanding Gunas is essential for formulating treatments effectively, as they influence how substances will interact with the body's Doshas and impact overall health.

53) Tridoshaja (Tridosaja):
'Tridoshaja' refers to diseases that arise from imbalances of the three Doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Understanding this concept is essential in Ayurveda, as it guides practitioners in diagnosing conditions and implementing appropriate treatment strategies to restore equilibrium.

54) Samprapti:
'Samprapti' signifies the pathological process and mechanism behind the onset of diseases in Ayurveda. Understanding the progression of Samprapti enables practitioners to identify root causes, creating targeted treatment approaches that effectively address underlying imbalances contributing to health issues.

55) Snigdhata:
'Snigdhata' refers to the quality of being oily or unctuous, significant in Ayurvedic treatments where maintaining proper moisture and nourishment is essential for skin health. Treatments promoting Snigdhata are vital in managing conditions like Ekakushtha, enhancing skin texture and resilience.

56) Vaivarnya:
'Vaivarnya' refers to discoloration or changes in skin color associated with certain skin diseases. Monitoring Vaivarnya in conditions like Ekakushtha is essential for assessing disease progression and the effectiveness of treatment, guiding further interventions needed to enhance skin health.

57) Shraddha (Sraddha):
'Shraddha' translates to faith or trust, which is vital in the patient-practitioner relationship in Ayurveda. Building Shraddha encourages patients to adhere to treatment protocols and lifestyle adjustments, fostering a collaborative environment for healing and wellness.

58) Bleeding:
'Bleeding' can occur in skin conditions due to intense scratching or irritation. In the context of Ekakushtha, episodes of bleeding indicate severity and may necessitate modifications in treatment approaches to minimize trauma and promote healing, ensuring patient comfort and safety.

59) Jnanadeva (Dnyandev):
'Dnyandev' refers to Dr. Savita A. Kulkarni, a co-author of the case study, bringing expertise and experience to the research. Her contributions emphasize the collaborative efforts in advancing Ayurvedic treatments, enhancing comprehensive care strategies for patients suffering from conditions like Ekakushtha.

60) Koshtha (Kostha):
'Koshtha' signifies the internal cavity of the body, particularly the gastrointestinal tract in Ayurveda. Understanding Koshtha is essential for diagnosing and treating conditions as it relates to the efficient processing of food and absorption of nutrients, influencing overall health.

61) Dravya:
'Dravya' means substance or matter in Ayurveda, encompassing herbs, minerals, and other medicinal components. Understanding the properties of Dravya is vital for selecting appropriate treatments and formulating therapies tailored to individual health needs and conditions.

62) Ghrita (Ghrta):
'Ghrita' refers to clarified butter used in various Ayurvedic treatments, possessing nourishing and healing properties. Ghrita is often utilized in skin treatments due to its moisturizing and rasayana (rejuvenation) qualities, making it effective in managing dryness and enhancing skin vitality in patients.

63) Dushya (Dusya):
'Dushyas' refers to the substrates or elements that become affected during the disease process in Ayurveda. Identifying Dushyas is essential for practitioners as it helps guide targeted therapeutic interventions aimed at restoring health by addressing specific imbalances.

64) Shakha (Sakha):
'Shakha' means limbs or branches in Ayurveda, representing different parts of the body. Understanding the concept of Shakha helps practitioners in diagnosing conditions specific to bodily regions and determining effective treatment approaches tailored to those areas.

65) Srotas (Shrotas):
'Srotas' denotes the channels or pathways in the body through which substances circulate. In Ayurvedic medicine, understanding Srotas is crucial for identifying areas of blockage or imbalance, guiding treatment strategies that promote healthy flow and function across bodily systems.

66) Seat (Seated):
'Seated' typically refers to the location or root cause of a disease within the body in Ayurveda. Understanding where an imbalance is seated assists practitioners in identifying effective treatment modalities to address the source of health issues holistically.

67) Tikta:
'Tikta' refers to the bitter taste found in certain herbs used in Ayurveda. It plays a significant role in detoxification and balancing Kapha and Pitta doshas, making it useful in treatments for conditions like Ekakushtha, where detoxification is necessary.

68) Ahara:
'Ahara' denotes food or diet in Ayurveda, which is crucial in maintaining health and balance among Doshas. The quality and nature of Ahara influence digestion, metabolism, and overall well-being, making dietary guidance a vital aspect of Ayurvedic treatments.

69) Gatra:
'Gatra' refers to the body in Ayurveda. Understanding the Gatra's condition helps practitioners assess various health issues and tailor treatment approaches focusing on overall body wellness, especially when dealing with chronic conditions like Ekakushtha, where multiple areas may be affected.

70) Vaca:
'Vacha' refers to a medicinal herb famed for its beneficial properties in Ayurveda. It is often employed in treatments to stimulate digestion, improve cognitive function, and bolster overall health. Understanding its role in formulations enhances treatment efficacy in managing various ailments.

71) Anna:
'Anna' means food or sustenance in Ayurvedic context. It emphasizes the significance of diet in nurturing the body and maintaining health. Understanding Anna in terms of quality, quantity, and suitability for the individual's Dosha is crucial for effective Ayurvedic eating practices.

72) Vati:
'Vati' refers to tablet formulations in Ayurveda, combining various herbal ingredients for therapeutic purposes. Understanding how to formulate and utilize Vati effectively aids practitioners in delivering concentrated doses of medicines to help address specific health concerns efficiently.

73) Mala:
'Mala' denotes waste products in the body, including excreted materials. Recognizing and managing Mala is essential, as their accumulation can signify dietary or functional imbalances. Ayurveda emphasizes cleansing and detoxification methods to facilitate proper waste removal and promote health.

74) Kala:
'Kala' signifies time or phase in Ayurveda, crucial in understanding the timing of treatments and dietary schedules. Recognizing the importance of Kala helps practitioners plan interventions effectively, synchronizing with the body's natural rhythms and enhancing healing outcomes.

75) Food:
'Food' in the Ayurvedic context is considered not only sustenance but also a source of medicine vital for maintaining balance among Doshas. The quality of food impacts digestion and overall health, emphasizing the need for mindful dietary choices in treatments.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 162]