Abstract

EFFECTIVENESS OF SIDDHA MEDICINE IN THE MANAGEMENT OF KAANAKADI (IDIOPATHIC URTICARIA) – A CASE REPORT

M. K. Sangeetha*, K. Rajakumar and M. R. Srinivasan

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Abstract

Siddha system of medicine is one of the ancient systems of medicine practiced among Tamil speaking community. The medicine in this system prepared from raw drug from herbals, mineral, metals and animal products. Chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU) is defined as the occurrence of daily or almost daily, wheals and itching for at least 6 weeks, with no obvious cause. It is a major affliction causing severe disability. The present report deals with a case of CIU diagnosed as ‘Kaanakadi’ according to Siddha System of medicine. Efficacy of treatment was calculated by using ‘The chronic urticaria quality of life questionnaire (CU-Q2oL)’ and ‘Urticaria activity score (UAS 7)’. Total two assessments were done, before treatment, and after 48 days of treatment. There was complete relief in signs & symptoms of CIU, on both scales CU-Q2oL and UAS 7 after 48 days of treatment along with dietary protocol, lifestyle changes which are advised to the patient. It seems that internal and external medicines followed along with diet plan and life style changes are essential for the complete recovery and also to prevent the recurrences in chronic urticaria patients.

Keywords: Chronic idiopathic urticaria, Kaanakadi, life style, Siddha medicine.