AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF CHRONIC IDIOPATHIC URTICARIA: A CASE REPORT

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 ‘udarda’ according to Ayurveda. Efficacy of treatment was calculated by using ‘The chronic urticaria quality of life questionnaire (CU-Q2oL)’ and ‘Urticaria activity score (UAS 7)’. Total three assessments were done, before treatment, after virechana and after one month of virechana. Virechana karma is done followed by internal Ayurvedic medicines. There was complete relief in signs & symptoms of CIU, on both scales CU-Q2oL and UAS 7 immediately after virechana but the relief was not sustained for long time. Recurrence occurred after one month of virechana due to non following of dietary protocol, lifestyle changes which are advised to the patient. It seems that shodhana karma (purificatory procedures) followed by internal medicines along with diet plan and life style changes are essential for the complete recovery and also to prevent the recurrences in chronic urticaria patients.