Management of Taqashshur al-Jild (Psoriasis) with Unani Compound Formulations and Topical Application of Sirka Angūrī (Grapes vinegar)

Abstract

Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated skin disorder characterized by recurrent flare-ups and remissions. In Unani medicine, psoriasis – referred to as Taqashshur al-Jild – is thought to result from “burning” of excess Sawdāwī Khilṭ , leading to dryness, scaling, and inflammation; classical management emphasizes restoring humoral balance, purifying the blood, and soothing the skin. We present a 45-year-old woman with a 20-year history of treatment-resistant chronic plaque psoriasis, manifesting as persistent, erythematous, scaly plaques over the extensor surfaces of her elbows, accompanied by intense itching, burning, and considerable psychosocial distress. On clinical examination, plaques ranged from 1.5 to 10 cm, and signs such as the Auspitz sign and Koebner phenomenon were positive. The patient underwent a Unani regimen for 1.5 months comprising oral Habb-i-Muṣaffī Khūn (80 mg, two tablets twice daily), Sharbat-i-‘Unnab (25 ml divided dose daily), Iṭrīfal Shāhtara (5 g twice daily), ‘Arq-i-Shāhtara (60 ml divided dose daily), plus nightly application of Sirka Angūrī topically. Dietary counseling and avoidance of known triggers were also advised. Remarkably, complete clearance of psoriatic plaques, relief of itching and burning, and psychosocial improvement was observed within 15 days; no residual marks or adverse effects were noted. The remission remained stable throughout a 3-month follow-up without further treatment. This case suggests that a humoral-theory-based Unani polyherbal regimen – integrating oral, topical, and lifestyle/dietary measures – may offer a safe, effective, and economical alternative in long-standing, treatment-resistant psoriasis, warranting further systematic evaluation in a larger population.