Zumba Trainer Beats Lichen Planus Without Steroids
Mrs. K.J. (Patient ID: 52128), a physically active woman in her early 30s, consulted at Life Force homeopathy and presented with a recurrence of cutaneous Lichen Planus (LP) beginning in March 2023, during the ninth month of her pregnancy. She is a Zumba trainer and nail artist and was living in Ahmedabad at the time of onset, a city known for its hot climate, which may have acted as an aggravating factor. The skin lesions started as multiple purplish eruptions on her forearms and lower legs, later spreading to the thighs, buttocks, and margins of the soles. The eruptions were associated with severe itching and significant discomfort, especially at night, causing frequent sleep disturbances. Notably, she had experienced a similar episode of LP in 2011–2012, which had resolved within two months of conventional treatment. This time, however, she chose to avoid steroidal or immunosuppressive therapy, opting instead for supportive and alternative measures.
The patient reported several possible triggering factors, including pregnancy-related hormonal changes, heat exposure, and antibiotic use for a respiratory infection in January 2023. A notable flare-up also occurred in April 2024, shortly after the intake of a hormonal pill to delay menstruation. She had a 10–12 year history of migraine, but no other significant systemic complaints. Her sleep was described as very light, waking up with the slightest movement, and she often reported premonitory dreams and frequent nighttime awakenings.
Emotionally, she was described as overthinking, expressive, short-tempered, and emotionally reactive, especially when misunderstood. She openly referred to herself as “mufat,” indicating her blunt and candid communication style.
From a constitutional perspective, she was hot thermal, with profuse perspiration, an average appetite, and cravings for ice cream and Chinese food. Her thirst averaged 2–3 liters per day, and her bowel, bladder, and menstrual functions were normal. She followed a vegetarian diet and maintained a physically active lifestyle despite managing a newborn baby at the time of treatment.
Her treatment strategy included the use of Cetaphil moisturizing lotion (initiated in January 2024), vitamin D3 and B12 supplementation (started in December 2023), and the incorporation of color therapy, applying specific colors to the hands starting in August 2023.
After thorough case analysis and constitutional evaluation, individualized homeopathic treatment was prescribed by Dr. Rajesh Shah
Follow-ups:
Throughout the course of the condition, the patient''''s progress was closely monitored.
Between September 2023 and February 2024, her condition fluctuated, with periods of minor improvement followed by relapses.
By April 2024, there was significant healing of old lesions, although a few new ones appeared following hormonal medication.
By June 2024, she reported complete resolution of all active lesions, with only post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation remaining.
Conclusion:
Mrs. K.J. experienced a gradual but complete remission of Lichen Planus over a span of 15 months, without the use of conventional pharmacological treatment. Her case highlights the importance of understanding individual triggers, supporting the emotional and psychological state, and adopting a holistic approach in chronic autoimmune skin conditions. With the right balance of self-awareness, lifestyle management, and supportive therapies, she was able to regain skin health and return to her active, professional, and personal life.
- Case study is written by Dr. Mitali Singh, Associate Doctor to Dr. Rajesh Shah, MD (Hom)