Siddha medicine for karappan (eczema): a case report.

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Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Effectiveness of siddha medicine in the treatment of karappan (eczema) – a case report
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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Author:

M. K. Sangeetha, K. Rajakumar, M. R. Srinivasan, M. Chithra, I. Nithyamala, S. Dinesh


World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: Effectiveness of siddha medicine in the treatment of karappan (eczema) – a case report

Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research

Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20232-26878


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Summary of article contents:

Introduction

Siddha medicine, a traditional healing science from India, focuses on holistic approaches to maintain harmony between the mind and body in accordance with nature's laws. It utilizes a wide variety of treatment modalities, including herbal, mineral, and metal-based medicines. Common dermatological issues like eczema (referred to as Karappan in Siddha) are prevalent globally, with incidences ranging from 2-3% in the medical field. This condition presents as non-contagious skin inflammation, marked by symptoms such as erythema, scaling, and intense itching. Although eczema cannot be fully cured, effective management is possible through proper treatment and avoidance of triggers.

The Nature of Eczema

Eczema is commonly characterized by dry, itchy patches that may appear on various parts of the body. In infants, it typically manifests on areas like the forehead and cheeks, while in older children and adults, it often affects the face, neck, and inner surfaces of the limbs. The condition is driven by an overactive inflammatory response to irritants, leading to symptoms ranging from mild to debilitating. Chronic scratching can cause further skin damage, making it imperative to prevent these episodes. Conventional treatments often rely on topical corticosteroids, though these can have side effects and may not be economical for all patients, particularly those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.

Siddha's Perspective on Eczema

In the Siddha approach, eczema is classified as Karappan, a unique skin disorder distinct from leprosy. Historical texts by Sage Yugi Muni describe the characteristics and symptoms of Karappan, linking it to environmental factors such as contact with allergens like poison ivy and psychosomatic triggers. Siddha literature details the signs of this condition, including changes in skin color and texture, resulting primarily from imbalances in the body's doshas, especially Kapham. Dietary factors are also emphasized, where certain foods can exacerbate the condition, necessitating strict dietary adherence for effective management.

Case Presentation and Treatment Protocol

A clinical case highlighted the effectiveness of Siddha medicine in treating a 47-year-old female patient suffering from Karappan characterized by hyper-pigmented itchy patches and significant discomfort. Following a comprehensive assessment and tailored treatment plan—including purgation, both internal and external medications, and stringent dietary restrictions—the patient's symptoms showed remarkable improvement after 48 days. Key to the treatment's success were lifestyle alterations and avoidance of known irritants, such as cleaning agents that had initially triggered her skin issues.

Conclusion

The study effectively demonstrates the role of Siddha medicine in the management of eczema, particularly through integrated treatment strategies that encompass both pharmacological and lifestyle changes. While findings from this single case study are promising, further long-term studies involving larger sample sizes are necessary to validate these results and establish broader applications in the treatment of Karappan. Emphasizing individualized care, dietary modifications, and holistic practices may provide a pathway for sustainable relief from eczema symptoms, reinforcing the value of traditional approaches in contemporary healthcare.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is Siddha medicine and how does it differ from modern medicine?

Siddha medicine is an ancient healing system from India that emphasizes holistic health through harmony of mind and body. It utilizes herbs, minerals, and metals in treatment, contrasting with modern medicine's focus on pharmaceutical drugs and specific diseases.

What is eczema and what are its common symptoms?

Eczema, or Karappan in Siddha medicine, is a non-contagious skin inflammation characterized by itching, redness, scaling, and sometimes oozing. It often presents as dry, itchy patches and can cause significant discomfort, worsening at night.

What factors contribute to eczema according to Siddha medicine?

Siddha medicine attributes eczema to altered dietary habits and lifestyle, leading to impaired digestion and aggravation of bodily doshas, primarily Kapham, which manifests in the skin and causes symptoms like pruritus and hyperpigmentation.

How was the patient treated in the case study?

The patient received Siddha treatment over 48 days, including internal medicines like Rakthasudhi Maathirai and external applications such as Pungan Thailam, along with strict dietary protocols to avoid known triggers.

What were the results of the Siddha treatment for eczema?

At the conclusion of the treatment, the patient experienced complete relief from itching, burning, and oozing, with significant improvement in hyperpigmented patches, demonstrating the effectiveness of Siddha medicine in managing eczema.

What lifestyle changes were recommended for the patient post-treatment?

The patient was advised to avoid certain foods like bitter gourd and chicken, as well as exposure to irritants such as floor cleaning agents, emphasizing the importance of diet and lifestyle in preventing eczema recurrences.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Siddha medicine for karappan (eczema): a case report.”. 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) Siddha:
Siddha is a traditional Indian healing system that focuses on holistic wellness and balance between mind and body. This system utilizes not only herbs but also metals and minerals in its medicines. It emphasizes the importance of adhering to nature's laws and has a long historical significance in India.

2) Itching:
Itching is a prominent symptom often associated with skin conditions like eczema. It can vary in severity and is typically a distressing sensation that compels individuals to scratch the affected area. Persistent itching can lead to skin damage and exacerbate the underlying condition, as seen in the discussed case.

3) Medicine:
The phrase 'the medicine' refers to the specific treatment methods and formulations tailored to individual conditions. In Siddha, this includes a combination of herbs, minerals, and proper dosing, illustrating the holistic approach focused on restoring balance and treating the root cause of ailments.

4) Burning sensation:
A burning sensation is a common complaint in skin disorders, often accompanying conditions like eczema. This feeling can exacerbate discomfort and may interfere with daily activities and sleep. Identifying and addressing this symptom can play a crucial role in effective management and treatment strategies for affected individuals.

5) Burning (Burn, Burned, Burnt):
Burning refers to an uncomfortable, often painful sensation that can occur in various skin disorders. In this case, it was highlighted in the patient with eczema, affecting the quality of life and emphasizing the need for effective treatment. Understanding the nature of burning can guide therapeutic approaches.

6) Disease:
Diseases refer to pathological conditions that disrupt normal bodily functions. Understanding the nature of diseases, such as eczema, is crucial for developing effective treatment strategies. The text highlights how traditional practices can help manage these diseases within the framework of Siddha medicine.

7) Chennai:
Chennai, located in India, serves as the geographical context for the case study discussing Siddha treatments. The local availability of traditional medicine practitioners and institutions reflects Chennai's role as a prominent hub for Siddha medicine and holistic healing practices across India.

8) Food:
Food plays a significant role in Siddha medicine, where certain dietary items can exacerbate or alleviate skin conditions. The patient was advised on specific foods to avoid, highlighting the intricate connection between diet and the exacerbation or management of diseases like eczema.

9) Scratching:
Scratching is a reflex action often triggered by itching, which can lead to further skin irritation and complications. In the case, recurrent scratching due to intense itching worsened the patient's symptoms, emphasizing the need for effective treatment to reduce itching and prevent skin damage.

10) Yugimuni (Yugi-muni):
Yugi-muni, a sage in Siddha literature, is credited with detailed descriptions of skin disorders such as eczema (Karappan). His teachings provide foundational knowledge for the Siddha system's understanding of diseases, emphasizing the importance of traditional wisdom in contemporary treatment approaches.

11) Table:
The presence of tables in the document is a method of presenting data in a concise format. These tables summarize symptoms, treatment protocols, and results, making complex information more accessible and aiding in the understanding of the effectiveness of Siddha treatments for eczema.

12) Muni:
Muni, meaning sage or seer in Tamil, signifies wisdom through spiritual insight in Siddha tradition. Figures like Yugi-muni contribute valuable knowledge regarding health and diseases, guiding practitioners in treatment methodologies based on ancient teachings and holistic principles.

13) Sage:
Sage refers to a learned and wise individual, often considered as a spiritual leader or scholar. In Siddha medicine, sages contribute to the understanding of health conditions through their writings and teachings, influencing treatment practices and medical philosophies up to the present day.

14) Yugi (Yuki):
Yugi, part of the name Yugi-muni, represents an important historical figure in Siddha medicine. His insights on various skin conditions, particularly eczema, help in understanding the disease's nature and offer foundational principles that guide contemporary Siddha healing practices.

15) Leprosy:
Leprosy is a contagious disease characterized by skin lesions and nerve damage. The text distinguishes eczema from leprosy, underscoring the importance of accurate diagnosis and treatment. This differentiation emphasizes the unique characteristics and management strategies required for different skin disorders.

16) India:
India is the birthplace of Siddha medicine, among various traditional healing systems. The rich cultural and historical context shapes practices and beliefs surrounding health and wellness within the country, allowing for the continued evolution and relevance of ancient medical systems like Siddha to modern times.

17) Water:
Water serves as a fundamental element in various Siddha treatments, including preparation of medicines and as a medium for administering treatments. Maintaining hydration is essential for overall health and supports the body's healing processes along with specific Siddha therapies.

18) Edema (Oedema):
Edema refers to localized swelling caused by fluid accumulation in tissues, often associated with inflammation. The presence of edema in skin conditions like eczema can indicate a more severe inflammatory response, necessitating targeted treatment to reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort.

19) Bitter gourd:
Bitter gourd is a vegetable that was advised to be avoided by the patient as it can interfere with digestion and may exacerbate skin conditions in the Siddha framework. Dietary considerations such as this are crucial for achieving optimal health outcomes in Siddha medicine.

20) Accumulation (Accumulating, Accumulate):
Accumulation in the context of Siddha medicine often relates to the buildup of doshas (biological energies) or toxins in the body, leading to various ailments. Understanding the mechanics of accumulation helps practitioners devise targeted treatments aimed at restoring balance and alleviating symptoms.

21) Inflammation:
Inflammation is the body's response to injury or infection characterized by redness, swelling, heat, and pain. Eczema presents as inflamed skin, thus understanding the underlying causes of inflammation is crucial for effective management and formulation of treatment strategies in Siddha medicine.

22) Discussion:
Discussion encompasses the examination of findings and results presented in the study. It evaluates the relevance of Siddha practices concerning eczema and highlights the importance of traditional wisdom applying to contemporary treatment approaches, providing insights for further research and clinical application.

23) Agasthiyar:
Agasthiyar is a revered sage in Siddha tradition known for his contributions to medicinal knowledge and practices. His teachings offer guidance on holistic well-being, and his references in the context of eczema contribute to the understanding and treatment options within the Siddha system.

24) Substance:
Substance here relates to a particular element or compound used in medicine. Each substance in Siddha has specific therapeutic properties, and understanding these allows practitioners to create effective treatment courses tailored to individual ailments, enhancing the efficacy of the therapeutic approach.

25) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is another traditional Indian healing system alongside Siddha, sharing concepts regarding balance and health. Although distinct, both systems complement each other, emphasizing natural healing, diet, and lifestyle adjustments for overall wellness. This interrelationship highlights diverse approaches to chronic diseases like eczema.

26) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiated describes a state where natural bodily functions become disrupted, causing imbalances. In Siddha, identifying vitiated doshas aids in diagnosis and treatment. Recognizing these vitiations is crucial for the effective restoration of health, highlighting Siddha's holistic philosophical approach to healing.

27) Tamarind:
Tamarind is a commonly used sour fruit that may affect digestion negatively for some individuals. In the context of medicinal recommendations, it was advised for the patient to avoid tamarind, indicating the significance of dietary restrictions in managing skin conditions like eczema in Siddha.

28) Siddhar:
A Siddhar is a practitioner or sage in the Siddha healing system known for profound knowledge and spiritual insight. Their teachings serve as the foundational knowledge for Siddha therapies, influencing contemporary practices and guiding the understanding of diseases and their treatments.

29) Mineral:
Minerals are essential components in Siddha medicines, contributing therapeutic properties. The incorporation of minerals reflects the system's holistic approach and understanding of the natural world, enhancing treatment efficacy for various conditions, particularly in complex ailments like eczema.

30) Science (Scientific):
In the context of Siddha, science refers to the systematic study of health, medicine, and disease. It emphasizes observations and practices that have been documented over centuries, showcasing the empirical nature of Siddha healing and its application in treating specific ailments like eczema.

31) Brinjal:
Brinjal, also known as eggplant, was highlighted as a food to avoid in the management of eczema. This aligns with Siddha principles where certain foods are believed to aggravate skin conditions, underscoring the importance of tailored dietary practices in healing.

32) Company:
The reference to a company within the text likely relates to the source of medicinal preparations. The quality and authenticity of medicines from reputable companies are critical in ensuring the effectiveness of treatments prescribed in Siddha medical practices.

33) Bitter:
In the context of dietary guidelines, 'bitter' relates to the flavor profile of certain foods, like bitter gourd. In Siddha medicine, bitter foods may be associated with heat in the body and can be advised against in certain conditions, particularly skin disorders.

34) Nature:
Nature is a fundamental aspect of Siddha medicine, influencing treatment principles and methodologies that emphasize living in harmony with natural laws. Understanding and respecting nature's role are considered essential for maintaining health and preventing diseases.

35) Powder:
Powder refers to the form of many Siddha medicines, often derived from herbs and minerals. The preparation and application of powders align with traditional practice, allowing for effective delivery of medicinal properties to treat conditions such as eczema.

36) Pittam (Pittham):
Pitham is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda and Siddha medicine responsible for metabolic and digestive functions. Its imbalance can contribute to various health issues, including skin conditions like eczema. Understanding these dosha dynamics is crucial for effective treatment planning.

37) Vattam:
Vatham is another dosha in Siddha and Ayurveda theories, linked with movement and neurological functions. Its imbalance can manifest in various health issues. Knowledge of Vatham is essential for holistic treatment strategies in managing skin disorders like eczema.

38) Kambu:
Kambu, or millet, represents a food item often discussed within dietary guidelines for patients. In Siddha, certain foods like Kambu can impact overall health and are recommended or restricted based on individual conditions, particularly concerning skin health and wellness.

39) Maida:
Maida is refined flour that was advised against in the text due to its potential negative effects on health. In Siddha medicine, avoiding processed foods like maida is emphasized for maintaining overall balance and preventing deteriorations in skin conditions.

40) Study (Studying):
The study presented in the article illustrates the effectiveness of Siddha medicine for treating eczema. It provides case evidence and corroborates traditional practices with clinical outcomes, emphasizing the importance of further research and documentation in the field of Siddha medicine.

41) Drug:
Drug refers to the active component of a medication used to treat ailments. In Siddha medicine, specific drugs are formulated based on traditional knowledge and practices aimed at addressing the various symptoms of conditions like eczema.

42) Kuru:
Kuru refers to one of the symptoms associated with eczema in the Siddha literature, indicating specific manifestations like lesions or patches. Recognizing symptoms like Kuru helps practitioners tailor appropriate interventions for individuals suffering from skin disorders.

43) Ras (Rash):
Rash describes the skin's appearance, often associated with conditions like eczema. Understanding the characteristics of a rash assists practitioners in reaching accurate diagnoses and formulating effective treatment plans. It signifies a tangible manifestation of underlying health issues.

44) Diet:
Diet encompasses the nutritional intake of individuals, which plays a critical role in health, particularly in the context of Siddha medicine. Specific dietary recommendations are integral to treatment protocols, as seen in the management of eczema, promoting holistic well-being.

45) Sign:
Sign refers to the observable manifestations or symptoms of conditions. Recognizing signs in patients, such as hyperpigmentation or itching, is crucial for diagnosing and forming effective treatment plans in Siddha practice for diseases like eczema.

46) Line:
Line refers to the outlined treatment protocol presented in the study. It serves as a structured approach to managing skin conditions, emphasizing the need for systematic methodologies in traditional medicine to ensure effective patient outcomes.

47) Milk:
Milk is considered a common medium in Siddha medicine for preparing certain drugs. Its role in treatment protocols reflects the nuanced understanding of various substances' effects on health, particularly concerning the holistic integration of diet and medicine.

48) Pur:
Poor indicates conditions of socioeconomic status that influence access to healthcare. Addressing skin conditions like eczema in economically disadvantaged populations can pose challenges, highlighting the need for affordable treatment solutions within the framework of Siddha medicine.

49) Life:
Life in the context of the discussion emphasizes the importance of lifestyle modifications in conjunction with medical treatment. The Siddha approach underscores the significance of harmonious living and adherence to natural laws to achieve and maintain optimal health.

Other Science Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Siddha medicine for karappan (eczema): a case report.’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Holistic treatment, Siddha medicine, Pruritus, Clinical diagnosis, Patient treatment, Individual variation, Treatment duration, Case presentation, External medicine, Subjective parameter, Eczema symptoms, Life style changes, Patient improvement, Skin disorder, Etiological Diagnosis, Dermatological disease, Topical corticosteroid, Emotional factor, Systemic condition.

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