SUCCESSFUL MANAGEMENT OF SIDHMA KUSTHA (TINEA VERSICOLOR) THROUGH AYURVEDIC SAMANA CIKITSA: A CASE STUDY
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22159/prl.ijayush.v15i06%20(June).2123Keywords:
Sidhma Kustha, Tinea versicolor, Ayurveda, Samana Cikitsa, KusthaAbstract
Background: Skin diseases are increasingly prevalent in tropical countries like India and significantly affect physical and psychological well-being. In Ayurveda, all skin disorders are broadly classified under Kustha. Sidhma Kustha, one of the Ksudrakustha types, closely resembles Tinea versicolor (Pityriasis versicolor) in modern dermatology — a superficial fungal infection characterized by hypopigmented or hyperpigmented scaly patches.
Case Presentation: An 18-year-old male student presented with hypopigmented patches and fine scaling over the right side of the face and near the right earlobe, associated with severe itching for 15 days, with a history of recurrence over four months. He was diagnosed with Sidhma Kustha (Tinea versicolor) based on classical Ayurvedic signs and clinical presentation.
Treatment and Outcome: The patient was managed with Ayurvedic Samana Cikitsa comprising internal medicines — Amalaki Curna, Saptamrta Lauha, Kaisora Guggulu, Pancanimba Curna, Vidanga Curna, Krimi Mudgara Rasa, and Khadirarista — along with local application of Brhat Maricyadi Taila and Nimba Taila for 30 days. Marked reduction in itching and scaling was observed by Day 15, with complete resolution of lesions and normalization of skin colour by Day 30. No adverse effects were reported.
Conclusion: This case demonstrates that Ayurvedic Samana Cikitsa, by addressing Dosa imbalance, Rakta dusti, Krimi involvement, and lifestyle factors, can achieve complete and sustained remission of Sidhma Kustha, offering a holistic alternative for managing recurrent superficial fungal skin infections.
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