Promising Ayurvedic Herbs In The Management Of Kitibha (psoriasis)- A Review

Psoriasis is one of the commonest skin disorders seen in routine clinical scenario, in entire world around 80 million people suffering from psoriasis. Psoriasis is differentiated by patches of abnormal skin. These skin patches are typically red, itchy, and scaly. Psoriasis varies in severity from small, localized patches to complete body coverage. It typically presents as red patches with white scales on top. Areas of the body most commonly affected are the back of the forearms, chin, navel area, and scalp. Diagnosis is typically based on the signs and symptoms. Men and women are affected with equal frequency. The disease may begin at any age, but typically starts in adulthood. Psoriasis is associated with an increased risk of psoriatic arthritis, lymphomas, cardiovascular disease and depression. Psoriatic arthritis affects up to 30 percent of individuals with Psoriasis. It is noted that around 2% of population are touching with Psoriasis. In present study review on Herbs frequently used in treating psoriasis were compiled. The Herbs Nimba, Stri Kutaja, Guduchi, Daruharidra, Bhallataka Haritaki, Aragvadha, Amalaki, Karveera, Saptaparna, Khadira, Vasa, Guggulu, Chitraka & Katuki are reviewed to be having Vata or Kapha balancing properties. The pharmacological studies showing that Nimbidin of Neem having anti psoriatic property, The Methanolic and ethanolic extracts of Stri Kutaja and Guduchi are having anti oxidant and anti psychotic properties which are helpful in reducing the symptoms of psoriasis.

Does elective re-siting of intravenous cannulae decrease peripheral thrombophlebitis? A randomized controlled study.

Background. Peripheral venous thrombophlebitis (PVT) is a common complication of intravenous cannulation, occurring in about 30% of patients. We evaluated the effect of elective re-siting of intravenous cannulae every 48 hours on the incidence and severity of PVT in patients receiving intravenous fluids/drugs. Methods. We randomized 42 patients who were admitted for major abdominal surgery to either the control or study group (n=21 in either group). Informed consent was obtained from all of them. Cannulae in the control group were removed only if the site became painful, the cannula got dislodged or there were signs and symptoms suggestive of PVT, namely pain, erythema, swelling, excessive warmth or a palpable venous cord. Cannulae in the study group were changed and re-sited electively every 48 hours. All the patients were examined every 24 hours for signs and symptoms of PVT at the current and previous sites of infusion. Results. The incidence of PVT was 100% (21/21) in the control group and only 9.5% (2/21) in the study group (p<0.0001). The severity of PVT was also less in the study group compared with that in the control group. Day-wise correlation of the incidence of PVT showed that 82.6% of the episodes of PVT occurred on day 3. Conclusion. Elective re-siting of intravenous cannulae every 48 hours results in a significant reduction in the incidence and severity of PVT. We recommend that this should be adopted as standard practice in managing all patients who require prolonged intravenous therapy.