An ayurvedic approach in psoariasis - a case study

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “An ayurvedic approach in psoariasis - 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) Kapha:
In Ayurvedic medicine, Kapha is one of the three primary doshas representing the elements of water and earth. It embodies qualities such as heaviness, stability, and moisture, and governs bodily structures and fluids. A balance of Kapha promotes vitality and health, while an excess can lead to various ailments, including skin disorders like psoriasis.

2) Abhyanga (Abhyamga):
Abhyanga is a traditional Ayurvedic practice of self-massage using warm oils. This technique enhances circulation, nourishes the skin, and helps balance the doshas. It is particularly beneficial for individuals with Vata and Kapha imbalances and is often used in conjunction with other therapies to promote healing and relaxation in conditions like psoriasis.

3) Medicine:
Medicines in Ayurveda refer to the diverse range of herbal and natural substances used for therapeutic purposes. The efficacy of these medicines relies on understanding their properties and interactions with the body's doshas, aiding in restoring balance and harmony in health.

4) Aushadhi (Ausadhi, Ausadhin, Aushadhin):
Aushadhi denotes medicinal plants or herbs used in Ayurvedic practices. Each aushadhi possesses unique properties that can help in balancing the doshas and treating various ailments. Their therapeutic qualities are harnessed through formulations and preparations, contributing significantly to Ayurvedic healing protocols.

5) Itching:
Itching, or Kandu in Ayurveda, is a common symptom associated with numerous skin disorders, including psoriasis. It indicates an imbalance in the doshas, particularly an excess of Kapha. Effective treatments aim to alleviate itching through the use of external applications and internal medicines that target the underlying causes.

6) Vamana:
Vamana is a therapeutic procedure in Ayurveda that involves therapeutic vomiting to remove excess Kapha from the body. It is particularly useful in treating respiratory conditions and skin disorders. This detoxification process is designed to restore balance and promote overall health by clearing toxins from the body.

7) Dosha (Dosa):
In Ayurveda, doshas are the three fundamental energies—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—that govern physiological and psychological functions. Each dosha is composed of specific elements and has distinct properties. Maintaining a balance among the doshas is essential for health, while imbalances often lead to diseases, including skin conditions.

8) Haritaki:
Haritaki is a revered herb in Ayurveda known for its detoxifying and rejuvenating properties. It is used in various formulations to promote digestion, balance doshas, and enhance overall health. Its effectiveness in treating conditions like psoriasis highlights its role in Ayurvedic medicine as a vital aushadhi.

9) Shodhana (Sodhana):
Shodhana refers to purification or detoxification therapies in Ayurveda. It aims to eliminate accumulated toxins (ama) and restore balance among the doshas. Shodhana is crucial in managing chronic diseases, particularly skin disorders, as it prepares the body to receive subsequent herbal treatments more effectively.

10) Kushtha (Kustha):
Kustha signifies skin diseases in Ayurveda, encompassing various conditions including psoriasis. This category emphasizes the importance of understanding the underlying dosha imbalances and related parameters in order to create appropriate therapeutic interventions addressing the condition's complexities.

11) Disease:
Diseases in Ayurvedic practice are viewed as imbalances in the body's doshas and tissues. The approach to managing diseases is holistic, focusing on restoring balance through natural interventions and individualized treatment plans designed to address specific health concerns.

12) Karma (Karman):
Karma, in an Ayurvedic context, refers to actions and their consequences, influencing health and well-being. The term also denotes therapeutic techniques like Vamana or Virechana, which serve as interventions aiming for healing by correcting the prevailing disease state within the body.

13) Blood:
In Ayurveda, blood (Rakta) is considered one of the seven dhatus (tissues) and plays a critical role in nourishment and vitality. It is intricately linked to the body's immune response and is often analyzed when evaluating skin conditions, emphasizing the need for purification in treatments.

14) Vati:
Vati refers to a type of Ayurvedic medicine formulated by compressing herbal powders into small tablets or pills. This form enhances the stability and effectiveness of herbs, making them easier to dose and administer in treatments aiming to balance doshas and alleviate various ailments.

15) Vata:
Vata is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda and is associated with the elements of air and space. It governs movement, communication, and bodily functions related to circulation and respiration. An imbalance in Vata can lead to various health issues, including dryness and irritation in skin conditions like psoriasis.

16) Seth:
Seth in this context refers to Singh's name associated with the Ayurvedic institution where the treatment was conducted. This signifies the tradition and expertise in Ayurvedic practices that are critical in diagnosing and treating conditions like psoriasis.

17) Prakrita (Prakrta):
Prakrita signifies the natural or original state of a person’s health, reflecting their unique constitution or prakriti in Ayurveda. Understanding a patient’s prakriti is crucial for devising effective, personalized treatment strategies that align with their inherent characteristics and conditions.

18) Shunthi (Sunthi, Sumthi, Shumthi):
Shunthi, or ginger, is a widely recognized herb in Ayurveda known for its potent anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. It aids in digestion and detoxification, making it a valuable component in Ayurvedic formulations used to treat various ailments, including skin diseases like psoriasis.

19) Surface:
Surface refers to the outer layer or epidermis of the skin, where psoriasis lesions manifest as red patches with silvery scales. Understanding skin surface characteristics is vital in diagnosing and formulating effective Ayurvedic treatments aimed at healing and restoring skin health.

20) Ushna (Usna):
Ushna is a term that describes warmth or heat in Ayurveda. It is often associated with therapies and herbal medicines that generate warmth in the body, facilitating digestion and detoxification, which can be beneficial in managing conditions aggravated by cold qualities.

21) Study (Studying):
The study mentioned in the context evaluates the effectiveness of Ayurvedic treatments for psoriasis, focusing on case documentation. This research plays a crucial role in assessing traditional methods’ practicality and validating their healing potential within contemporary medical frameworks.

22) Burning sensation:
A burning sensation is a symptom commonly associated with skin conditions like psoriasis. It indicates a possible imbalance of pitta dosha in the body. Effective Ayurvedic treatments aim to alleviate this sensation through herbal formulations that cool and soothe the skin.

23) Kaphadosha (Kaphadosa, Kapha-dosha):
Kapha-dosha is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, characterized by qualities of heaviness, moisture, and stability. Its imbalance is often linked to conditions such as psoriasis, where excess Kapha can contribute to the formation of lesions and inflammation on the skin.

24) Ekakushtha (Eka-kushtha, Ekakustha):
Eka-kustha, similar to Ekakushtha, refers to specific types of skin disorders characterized by symptoms like those seen in psoriasis. Understanding this concept aids practitioners in identifying appropriate interventions tailored to the unique needs of patients presenting with such skin conditions.

25) Picchila:
Picchila refers to a quality of thickness or stickiness in Ayurveda, often associated with certain kapha conditions. In the context of skin disorders, picchila characteristics may reflect excess moisture or secretion, impacting treatments aimed at balancing doshas and restoring skin health.

26) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is a holistic healing system originating in India, based on the balance of body, mind, and spirit. It emphasizes individualized treatments and natural therapies that address root causes of diseases. Ayurveda's approach to skin conditions like psoriasis integrates dietary, lifestyle, and herbal strategies.

27) Ativisa (Ativisha):
Ativisha, or Aconitum heterophyllum, is an Ayurvedic herb known for its potent medicinal properties. It is often used in formulations aimed at detoxification and supporting digestive processes, making it beneficial for treating skin disorders by balancing the doshas involved in such diseases.

28) Mandagni (Mamdagni, Manda-agni):
Mandagni refers to weak digestive fire in Ayurveda. It is a crucial concept indicating an inability to properly digest food, leading to the accumulation of toxins (ama) in the body, which can significantly impact skin health. Enhancing Mandagni is vital in managing skin diseases like psoriasis.

29) Channel:
Channel refers to the pathways or systems through which bodily substances, such as blood and doshas, flow. In Ayurvedic treatment, ensuring that these channels are clear and functioning optimally is crucial for health, particularly in addressing obstructions leading to skin conditions.

30) Guggulu:
Guggulu is a resin extract widely used in Ayurveda, known for its anti-inflammatory and detoxifying effects. It is often included in treatments for skin ailments like psoriasis, reflecting its role in balancing the doshas and promoting healing by purifying the blood and tissues.

31) Bhavana (Bha-vana):
Bhavana in Ayurveda refers to the process of adding or steeping herbal materials in liquid to potentiate their effects. This method enhances the therapeutic efficacy of preparations, promoting better absorption and utilization within the body, especially in treatments for skin disorders.

32) Solapur:
Solapur is a geographic location in India, home to the Ayurvedic institution where the case study was conducted. This highlights the importance of local traditions and resources in providing Ayurvedic treatments and conducting research focused on healing practices within specific communities.

33) Burning (Burn, Burned, Burnt):
Burning, particularly in the skin context, indicates an inflammatory response often associated with pitta imbalances. Proper treatment methods in Ayurveda aim to alleviate this burning sensation through cooling herbal applications and lifestyle adjustments to restore balance and relieve discomfort.

34) Dravya:
Dravyas refer to substances in Ayurveda, encompassing herbs, minerals, and other components utilized in therapeutic practices. Understanding the properties of dravyas is essential for selecting appropriate remedies optimized for treating various health conditions.

35) Ghrita (Ghrta):
Ghrita is a term for clarified butter (ghee) used in Ayurvedic formulations. It acts as a carrier for herbs, enhancing their absorption and efficacy. Ghrita nourishes tissues and balances doshas, making it an important component in treatment protocols for skin disorders.

36) Nidana:
Nidana refers to the causative factors or the root causes of diseases in Ayurveda. Identifying nidana is crucial for effective treatment strategies, allowing practitioners to tailor interventions that specifically address and mitigate these underlying causes, particularly in chronic conditions like psoriasis.

37) Pitta:
Pitta, representing the elements of fire and water, is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda. It governs digestion, metabolism, and transformation processes in the body. An excess or imbalance in pitta often manifests in inflammatory skin conditions, necessitating specific treatments to restore harmony.

38) Sneha:
Sneha refers to the oily or unctuous quality in Ayurveda and is vital for nourishing tissues and balancing doshas. It's commonly applied therapeutically through oleation and enhances detoxification processes, making it an essential aspect of treatments for skin disorders such as psoriasis.

39) Musta (Mushta):
Musta, or Cyperus rotundus, is an Ayurvedic herb known for its digestive and astringent properties. It is utilized in various formulations and contributes to detoxification and normalization of dosha imbalances, making it particularly effective in skin treatment regimens.

40) Kandu (Kamdu):
Kandu represents the sensation of itching in Ayurveda, commonly associated with skin disorders like psoriasis. Understanding the characteristics of Kandu is essential for developing effective treatment regimens aimed at alleviating discomfort and correcting the underlying dosha imbalances contributing to this symptom.

41) Eladi (Ela-adi):
Eladi refers to a group of herbs used in Ayurvedic formulations renowned for their digestive and detoxifying benefits. These herbs are often included in treatments aimed at various diseases, particularly skin conditions, as they help enhance digestive strength and balance doshas.

42) Table:
In this context, the 'table' refers to the structured presentation of treatment plans and protocols used in the Ayurvedic management of psoriasis in the case study. Such tables facilitate clarity and understanding of the treatment outlined for specific ailments.

43) Pulse:
Pulse (Nadi) in Ayurveda is assessed to understand an individual's health status and dosha balance. The pulse's qualities provide critical insights into the body's various functions, assisting practitioners in diagnosing and tailoring treatments for conditions, including skin diseases like psoriasis.

44) Rupa:
Roopa refers to the physical manifestation or appearance of a disorder. In Ayurveda, understanding Roopa helps practitioners identify conditions visually and assess the severity and nature of the ailment, guiding effective treatment planning.

45) Yoga:
Yoga in Ayurveda refers to the prescribed treatments or therapeutic techniques aimed at restoring balance and health. These methods, including detoxification and herbal therapies, complement holistic healing approaches, particularly for managing chronic diseases such as psoriasis.

46) Guna:
Guna describes the inherent qualities or characteristics of substances in Ayurveda. Understanding Guna is fundamental for practitioners to create effective herbal formulations and treatments tailored to specific dosha imbalances, influencing the strategies used in managing various health conditions.

47) Mahamanjishthadi (Mahamanjisthadi, Maha-manjishthadi):
Mahamanjisthadi is regarded as a potent Ayurvedic remedy used for blood purification and detoxification. Its healing properties are utilized in various conditions, particularly skin ailments, as it works on balancing doshas and promoting overall skin health.

48) Kushtharoga (Kustharoga, Kushtha-roga):
Kushtha-roga refers to the spectrum of skin diseases defined within Ayurveda. This term encompasses various skin conditions requiring unique therapeutic interventions based on dosha imbalances and other factors, guiding effective treatment strategies for restoring skin health.

49) Purification:
Purification in the Ayurvedic context pertains to detoxification processes that eliminate accumulated toxins from the body. It is a critical step in the treatment of various ailments, including skin diseases like psoriasis, facilitating the restoration of balance among the doshas and improving overall health.

50) Manjishtha (Mamjishtha, Manjistha):
Manjishtha is a key herb in Ayurveda known for its blood-purifying and detoxifying properties. It is frequently used in formulations targeting skin conditions due to its ability to balance doshas and promote healing, particularly effective against chronic skin diseases.

51) Jatharagni (Jathara-agni):
Jatharagni refers to the digestive fire in Ayurveda, crucial for metabolism and overall health. Strong Jatharagni is necessary for proper digestion, absorption, and assimilation of nutrients, influencing overall health and well-being, particularly in managing skin disorders.

52) Raktadhatu (Rakta-dhatu):
Raktadhatu represents the blood tissue in Ayurveda, essential for nourishment and vitality. Its health is fundamental to overall well-being, with imbalances or impurities leading to various conditions, including skin diseases, emphasizing the importance of blood purification in treatment.

53) Mamsadhatu (Mamsha-dhatu):
Mamsadhatu pertains to the muscle and soft tissue in Ayurveda, vital for physical health and integrity of the body. The health of Mamsadhatu is associated with various functions, and its balance is crucial in treatment processes, especially when managing conditions affecting the skin.

54) Adhishthana (Adhisthana):
Adhisthana refers to the seat or location of a disease in Ayurveda. Understanding a disease's adhisthana is essential for targeting treatments effectively, ensuring that remedial measures address the root cause and manifestations of the disorder being treated.

55) Yashtimadhu (Yashti-madhu, Yastimadhu):
Yastimadhu, or liquorice, is an important herb in Ayurveda known for its soothing properties. It is utilized for its ability to balance pitta and kaphadoshas, making it beneficial in treating various conditions, especially skin ailments, through its anti-inflammatory and demulcent effects.

56) Vatadosha (Vatadosa, Vata-dosha):
Vata-dosha is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, representing air and space elements. It governs all movement and bodily functions. An imbalance in Vata can result in symptoms such as dryness and roughness in the skin, often contributing to conditions like psoriasis.

57) Kaphavata (Kapha-vata):
Kapha-vata denotes the combined influence of the Kapha and Vata doshas. This dual imbalance can lead to various health issues, including skin disorders. Treatments must focus on restoring balance between both doshas to mitigate symptoms associated with conditions like psoriasis.

58) Discussion:
Discussion refers to the analytical dialogue surrounding treatment outcomes and theories based on findings from case studies and observational research. In Ayurveda, discussions help in evaluating the effectiveness of herbal treatments, guiding future applications and fostering a deeper understanding of traditional practices.

59) Substance:
A substance in Ayurveda refers to any material used in formulations, including herbs and minerals. Knowledge of each substance’s properties is vital for effective treatment strategies that address specific conditions, helping in balancing the doshas and restoring health.

60) Samprapti:
Samprapti refers to the pathogenesis or the mechanism through which a disease develops in Ayurveda. Understanding samprapti is crucial for identifying the root causes of illnesses and crafting precise treatment protocols that effectively target these underlying issues.

61) Kandughna (Kandu-ghna):
Kandughna signifies the properties of certain herbs or treatments that alleviate itching. In Ayurvedic formulations for psoriasis, kandughna aspects are emphasized to provide relief from discomfort, targeting symptoms associated with skin disorders effectively.

62) Gandharva (Gamdharva, Gamdharvadurve):
Gandharva refers to a term associated with spiritual entities in Indian mythology but in Ayurveda, it often relates to specific herbal formulations known for their potent effects. Understanding these formulations is critical for selecting the right herbs for effective treatments.

63) Rasadhatu (Rasa-dhatu):
Rasadhatu is the first of the seven dhatus in Ayurveda, referring to the plasma or lymph-like fluid that nourishes the body. Its balance is essential for overall health; imbalances can lead to diseases, including skin disorders, highlighting the importance of maintaining healthy tissues.

64) Mukhapaka (Mukha-paka):
Mukhapaka denotes lesions or ulcers in the mouth, often indicative of a systemic disorder or imbalance. In Ayurveda, understanding conditions like mukhapaka can assist practitioners in diagnosing and treating systemic issues related to the doshas and local manifestations.

65) Suffering:
Suffering in the context of Ayurvedic practices refers to the distress or discomfort caused by imbalances and diseases. Addressing suffering requires comprehensive treatment approaches that honor the individual's unique constitution and the specific nature of their ailments.

66) Scorching:
Scorching typically describes excessive heat exposure or sensations that can aggravate skin conditions. Ayurvedic treatments often consider external factors such as scorching sunlight, which can exacerbate symptoms like redness and itching, guiding practitioners in creating protective and cooling treatment protocols.

67) Gandhaka (Gamdhaka):
Gandhaka or sulfur is an essential element in Ayurvedic treatments, known for its purifying and antibacterial properties. It plays a significant role in managing skin disorders like psoriasis by detoxifying the body and restoring balance among the doshas involved.

68) Triphala (Tri-phala):
Triphala is a prominent Ayurvedic formulation made from three fruits, known for its detoxifying and health-promoting properties. It aids digestion and balances all three doshas, making it a versatile remedy in treating various conditions, including skin disorders.

69) Pariksha (Pariksa):
Pariksha refers to examination or assessment in Ayurveda, encompassing methods utilized to evaluate a patient's health status. Proper pariksha is fundamental in diagnosis, guiding effective treatment plans tailored to individual needs and conditions.

70) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana):
Rasayana is a category of Ayurvedic therapies focused on rejuvenation, enhancing health, longevity, and vitality. These treatments prioritize balancing doshas and restoring optimal bodily functions, essential for managing chronic conditions and promoting overall well-being.

71) Prabhuta:
Prabhuta translates to abundant or ample in Ayurvedic terminology. This term often describes a plentiful administration of medicine or treatment, ensuring that the patient receives adequate doses for effective healing, particularly in chronic conditions like psoriasis.

72) Dadimadi:
Dadimadi is an Ayurvedic formulation containing pomegranate and other herbs, known for its digestive benefits and ability to promote health. In treating conditions like psoriasis, dadimadi plays a role in strengthening digestive functions to support overall healing.

73) Activity:
Activity in Ayurveda denotes the physiological functions and actions performed by the body, reflecting overall vitality and health. An assessment of activity levels is crucial in treatment protocols, influencing recommendations for diet, exercise, and lifestyle adjustments.

74) Trishna (Trsna):
Trishna represents the feeling of thirst or dehydration in Ayurveda. It's often linked to an imbalance of pitta dosha and can indicate underlying issues, especially in skin conditions, necessitating careful treatment approaches that address hydration and balance.

75) Sukshma (Suksma, Shukshma):
Sukshma refers to the subtle qualities of herbs and treatments in Ayurveda. Understanding sukshma properties enables practitioners to tailor therapies effectively, ensuring that treatments can penetrate deeply and interact with bodily tissues for optimal results.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 116]