Psoriasis is a chronic, autoimmune skin disorder
characterized by rapid skin cell proliferation leading to
scaling, inflammation, and redness. While modern medicine
offers treatments like topical corticosteroids, systemic
immunosuppressants, and biologics, these often come with
side effects and can be costly. Ayurveda, an ancient system
of holistic medicine, provides a natural and comprehensive
approach to managing psoriasis by addressing the root causes
and promoting long-term healing through lifestyle
modifications, herbal remedies, and detoxification
therapies.
Ayurvedic Understanding and Pathophysiology of Psoriasis
In Ayurveda, psoriasis can be closely related to the
condition known as "Kitibha" or "Ekakustha," classified as
one of the Kshudra Kushta (minor skin diseases). It is
believed to be primarily caused by an imbalance of the
Vata and Kapha doshas, though Pitta dosha may also
contribute. Each dosha plays a specific role in the
manifestation of the disease:
1. Vata Dosha: Governs movement and the nervous system. When Vata is aggravated, it causes dryness, flaking, and itching of the skin.
2. Kapha Dosha: Associated with stability, heaviness, and moisture. When Kapha is imbalanced, it leads to the thickening and scaling of skin.
3. Pitta Dosha: Responsible for metabolism
and heat. When Pitta is involved, it can lead to
inflammation, redness, and burning sensations.
The root cause of psoriasis in Ayurveda is improper
digestion, leading to the formation of Ama (toxins).
These toxins accumulate in the body and disrupt the
balance of the doshas, causing them to manifest as
skin disorders. Unhealthy dietary habits, stress, lack
of exercise, and environmental factors can further
aggravate the condition.
Pathogenesis of Psoriasis in Ayurveda
The disease process of psoriasis in Ayurveda follows a particular progression:
Poor digestion (Agni Dushti): The primary imbalance in psoriasis begins with weak digestive fire (Agni), leading to the production of Ama, which circulates in the body and settles in the deeper tissues, including the skin.
Imbalance of Doshas: As Ama accumulates, it disturbs the Vata and Kapha doshas, resulting in symptoms like dry, scaly patches (due to Vata) and thickening of the skin (due to Kapha).
Blood and Skin Involvement: The
accumulated Ama leads to Rakta Dushti (blood
vitiation), further manifesting as skin lesions,
discoloration, and itchiness.
Ayurvedic Treatment for Psoriasis
Ayurvedic treatment focuses on detoxifying the
body, balancing the doshas, and restoring healthy
skin. The approach is comprehensive and includes
both internal and external therapies, dietary
modifications, and lifestyle changes.
1. Detoxification Therapies (Panchakarma)
Panchakarma, a set of five therapeutic procedures, is central to Ayurvedic treatment. It helps eliminate toxins and restore the balance of the doshas.
Vamana (Therapeutic Emesis): This procedure involves inducing controlled vomiting to expel toxins from the stomach and upper gastrointestinal tract. It is particularly useful in clearing excess Kapha and detoxifying the body.
Virechana (Therapeutic Purgation): Virechana involves the administration of laxatives to remove toxins from the body through the intestines. This treatment is effective in cleansing the liver, reducing Pitta, and eliminating toxins from the blood.
Basti (Medicated Enema): Basti is used to clear imbalances in the Vata dosha. It involves the administration of herbal decoctions or oils into the rectum, helping cleanse the colon and remove deep-seated toxins.
Raktamokshana (Bloodletting): In
cases where Rakta Dushti (vitiation of blood) is
present, bloodletting or leech therapy can be
used to purify the blood and reduce
inflammation.
2. Herbal Treatments
Ayurvedic herbal formulations are integral to
treating psoriasis, focusing on balancing the
doshas and nourishing the skin. Some key herbs
and formulations include:
Khadira (Acacia catechu): Known for its blood-purifying properties, Khadira is widely used in the treatment of skin disorders. It helps cleanse the blood, reducing Ama and balancing the Kapha dosha.
Neem (Azadirachta indica): Neem is a powerful anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial herb used to treat various skin conditions. It helps detoxify the blood, reduces itching and redness, and promotes healthy skin regeneration.
Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Turmeric contains curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory compound that helps reduce skin inflammation and irritation. It also aids in detoxifying the liver and improving digestion, thereby reducing Ama.
Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia): This herb is a potent blood purifier and has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat chronic skin diseases like psoriasis. It balances Pitta and Kapha doshas and promotes skin healing.
Guggulu (Commiphora mukul): Guggulu has anti-inflammatory properties that make it useful in treating chronic inflammatory conditions such as psoriasis. It helps balance Vata and Kapha doshas and reduces joint pain associated with psoriatic arthritis.
Aloe Vera (Kumari): Aloe Vera
is cooling and soothing, which makes it an
effective remedy for managing Pitta-related
skin inflammation. Topical application of
Aloe Vera gel can relieve itching, dryness,
and irritation.
3. Internal Medications
Ayurveda uses internal medications to
balance the doshas, cleanse the blood, and
improve digestion. Some commonly used
formulations are:
Arogyavardhini Vati: This is a classical Ayurvedic formulation used to treat skin disorders like psoriasis. It helps improve liver function, detoxifies the body, and promotes healthy skin.
Panchatikta Ghrita: This medicated ghee is prepared using five bitter herbs and is effective in pacifying Pitta and detoxifying the skin.
Mahamanjishtadi Kwath: A
decoction prepared using Manjistha and
other herbs, this formulation helps purify
the blood and is beneficial in treating
skin inflammation and psoriasis.
4. External Applications and Therapies
External therapies in Ayurveda are designed to soothe inflamed skin, reduce itching, and promote healing. Some of the most common treatments include:
Thakradhara (Medicated Buttermilk Pouring): In this procedure, medicated buttermilk is poured continuously over the patient’s body or head. It has cooling and soothing effects, especially beneficial for Pitta-dominant psoriasis. It helps reduce inflammation, redness, and burning sensations.
Lepa (Herbal Paste Application): Various herbal pastes made from neem, turmeric, and sandalwood are applied to the affected areas to reduce scaling, redness, and itching.
Taila (Medicated Oils): Ayurvedic oils like Khadiradi Taila and Eladi Taila are used for external application to reduce inflammation and moisturize the skin. These oils are prepared using herbs with anti-inflammatory and healing properties.
Takra Lepa: A paste made
from Takra (buttermilk) and other
herbs is applied to affected areas.
This helps cool the skin and reduces
irritation caused by psoriasis.
5. Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations
A proper diet and lifestyle are critical components of Ayurvedic treatment for psoriasis. Ayurveda places great emphasis on following a diet that balances the doshas and avoids foods that create Ama (toxins). Some general dietary recommendations include:
Vata-Pacifying Foods: Warm, unctuous, and easily digestible foods such as soups, stews, ghee, and cooked vegetables are recommended.
Avoiding Aggravating Foods: Patients are advised to avoid spicy, oily, processed, and fermented foods, as these can increase Pitta and Kapha.
Inclusion of Bitters: Foods and herbs with bitter tastes, such as bitter gourd and neem, are encouraged to detoxify the body and cleanse the blood.
Hydration: Proper
hydration with herbal teas and
warm water is recommended to
support detoxification and skin
hydration.
Conclusion: An Integrated Approach to Healing Psoriasis
Ayurvedic treatment for psoriasis offers a holistic and natural approach to managing this chronic skin condition. By addressing the root cause of psoriasis—Ama accumulation and dosha imbalance—Ayurveda helps detoxify the body, restore healthy digestion, and balance the doshas, ultimately leading to healthy skin. Combining Panchakarma detoxification therapies, herbal remedies, and external applications with a balanced diet and lifestyle offers long-lasting relief from psoriasis symptoms and promotes overall well-being.
Ayurveda's strength lies in its
ability to provide a
personalized treatment approach,
taking into consideration an
individual's constitution
(Prakriti), the stage of the
disease, and the involvement of
doshas. Through this integrated
approach, patients can
experience significant
improvements in their condition,
reduced flare-ups, and an
enhanced quality of life.
FAQ
1. What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic
autoimmune skin condition that
causes the rapid buildup of
skin cells, resulting in
scaling on the skin’s surface.
It often leads to
inflammation, redness, and
thick, silvery-white scaly
patches.
2. How does Ayurveda view Psoriasis?
In Ayurveda, Psoriasis is
known as Kitibha or Eka
Kushtha. It is believed to
be caused by an imbalance in
the doshas—primarily Vata
and Kapha—and the
accumulation of toxins (ama)
in the body. These
imbalances affect skin
health, leading to
conditions like
Psoriasis.
3. What are the common Ayurvedic treatments for Psoriasis?
Ayurvedic treatment for Psoriasis includes a combination of:
-Detoxification therapies like Panchakarma to remove toxins (Ama).
-Internal medications made from herbs such as Turmeric (Curcuma longa), Neem (Azadirachta indica), and Guggulu (Commiphora mukul).
-Topical herbal applications using oils like Coconut oil, Mahamarichyadi tailam, and Karanja oil.
-Dietary modifications
(Pathya) to balance the
doshas.
4. Is there a specific Ayurvedic diet for Psoriasis?
Dietary changes are crucial in Ayurvedic treatment. It is recommended to:
-Avoid sour, spicy, and fermented foods.
-Eat easily digestible, non-oily, fresh meals.
-Include cooling and detoxifying foods like green leafy vegetables, cucumbers, and bitter gourd.
-Avoid excessive
consumption of dairy,
processed foods, and
meat.
5.How long does Ayurvedic treatment take to show results for Psoriasis?
The treatment duration
varies based on the
severity and
chronicity of the
condition. Generally,
it may take anywhere
from a few weeks to
several months to see
visible improvements.
Long-term relief may
require sustained
lifestyle changes and
ongoing treatment.
6. Can Ayurveda cure Psoriasis completely?
Psoriasis is a
chronic condition,
and while Ayurvedic
treatments can
significantly reduce
symptoms and improve
quality of life, a
complete cure may
not always be
possible. However,
with the right
treatment and
lifestyle changes,
long-term remission
is achievable.
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