Abstract

IN VIVO EVALUATION OF CHAKRAVHAYADI LEPA FOR KITIBHA KUSHTHA: INSIGHTS FROM IMIQUIMOD-INDUCED PSORIASIS IN ALBINO MICE

Chaitrali L. Latam, Savita C. Samleti, S. M. Lahankar

Abstract

Introduction: Skin disorders are increasing due to lifestyle, dietary, and environmental factors, with psoriasis affecting 2– 3% of the population. In Ayurveda, Kitibha Kushta, a Vata- Kapha dominant Kshudra Kushta, presents with hyperpigmentation, scaling, hardness, and severe itching, closely resembling psoriasis. Chakravhayadi Lepa, described in Chakradatta, was selected for local application in albino mice, offering a potential safe and effective approach for psoriasis management. Objective: To determine the efficacy of Chakravhayadi lepa in imiquimod induced Psoriasis in albino mice. Material and Methods: An in vivo study was conducted on albino mice following repeated administration. 14 days local application was done as per OECD guidelines. Assessment according to PASI score (erythema, scaling and thickness), inflammatory markers such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and umornecrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), histopathological investigation were carried out to evaluate efficacy of formulation. Results: IMQ induced stable body weight but caused erythema, scaling, thickening, increased spleen weight, and elevated IL-6 and TNF-α. Chakravhayadi Lepa significantly (P < 0.001) reduced skin lesions, normalized spleen

Keywords: Kitibha Kushtha, Psoriasis, Chakravhyadi Lepa.