Switra (Vitiligo) - Ayurvedic concept and management - Dr. Jina Pattanaik
Switra (Vitiligo) - Ayurvedic concept and management
Abstract: Vitiligo is a condition in which the skin loses its normal color or it can be fold as pigment cells (melanocytes). This condition starts from a spot like condition which may get bigger areas with time in any part of body. Usually, melanin is a specific pigment which is reduced from the skin due to metabolic defect in liver. It may be more noticeable in people with darker skin, it is not contagious but creates social stigma. In Ayurveda it is called Shvitra or Kilasa which is also termed as Shveta Kustha in the group of Kustha or skin diseases. It is caused by the imbalance of all the three doshas (Vata, Pitta & Kapha) vitiating Rakta, Mamsa and Medhas Dhatus. Several medicines both internal and external are described in Ayurveda . In clinical practice Pratisarana & Lekhana kriya followed by external application of cream & lotion were found effective. If the disease is not treated earlier it may spread & remain forever because it is told as Asadhya.