Abstract

MEDICO-HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE OF “KITIBHA KUSTHA” (PSORIASIS) - A COMMON SKIN DISORDER

Dr. Hemanta Panigrahi* and Dr. Srinibash Sahoo

Abstract

The earliest description of Kitibha Kustha is found in Rik Veda. In the entire Ayurvedic compendium its description is found. The skin lesions are broadly classified and studied in two group’s viz. the Maha Kustha and the Kshudra Kustha. Kitibha Kustha is a form of Kshudra Kustha described in Ayurveda Texts. Kitibha is defined as “ a pathological skin condition where the color of skin is black like Kiti”. It is estimated that 2-4% population of western world are affected by psoriasis whereas 2-3% globally. Psoriasis can begin at any age. The nidana mentioned for the causation of Kustha can be classified and studied under the following five headings- Aaharaja, Viharaja, Sankramika. Charak described that the vitiated Sapta Dravyas are considered as sannikrista hetus for Kustha. According to Sushruta due to faulty dietetics, vitiation of Vata dosha takes place. This vitiated Vata dosha then vitiates Pitta and Kapha dosha. All these vitiated doshas enters in the siras, spreads all over the body, takes sthana samsraya in the skin and then causes the disease. This article carries medico-historical references of Kitibha Kustha in ancient India.

Keywords: Kitibha, ayurveda, kustha, sodhana, panchakarma, psoriasis.