The term pemphigus refers to a group of autoimmune blistering diseases of the skin and mucous membranes. The three primary sub-sets of pemphigus are: pemphigus vulgaris (PV), pemphigus foliaceus and paraneoplastic pemphigus. Each type of pemphigus has distinct clinical and immuno-pathological features. PV accounts for approximately 70% of pemphigus cases. Common symptoms include blisters in the mouth and on the skin, with the skin lesions forming erosions which tend to develop excessive granulation and crusting. Genetic factors, old age and the presence of autoimmune disorders are risk factors for this condition.

The Ayurvedic treatment of PV is aimed at reducing blister formation, promoting healing of blisters and erosions, and boosting the immune system of the body. Medicines like Arogya-Vardhini, Panch-Tikta-Ghrut-Guggulu, Punarnavdi-Guggulu, Gokshuradi-Guggulu, Mahamanjishthadi-Qadha, Saarivasav, Usheerasav and Chandanadi-Qadha are used to treat blister formation. Herbal medicines like Punarnava (Boerhaavia diffusa), Manjishtha (Rubia cordifolia), Saariva (Hemidesmus indicus), Chandan (Santalum album), Haridra (Curcuma longa), Daruharidra (Berberis aristata), Yashtimadhuk (Glycerrhiza glabra), Gokshur (Tribulus terrestris), Kutki (Picrorrhiza kurroa) and Mandukparni (Centella asiatica) can also be used to treat the blisters.

In order to promote healing of the blisters and erosions, local application of Chandanadi oil, Chandan- Bala-Laxadi oil, Jatyadi oil, Yashtimadhuk-Ghrut, Panch-Tikta-Ghrut and Shatadhout-Ghrut can be used. An ointment containing Manjishtha, Saariva, Chandan, Haridra and Mandukparni can also be used for this purpose.

In order to improve the immune status of the body, medicines like Suvarna-Malini-Vasant, Suvarna-Parpati, Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), Bhrungraj (Eclipta alba), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), Bala (Sida cordifolia) and Naagbala (Grewia hirsuta) are used.

All medicines need to be given long term in order to have a good therapeutic effect. Ayurvedic medicines can be given in combination with modern medicines to both improve the therapeutic response and to reduce the dose of steroids. PV can be a potentially life-threatening disease with a significant mortality rate. All patients should therefore be under the regular care and supervision of a Dermatologist.