How Ayurveda can help with Psoriasis

Dr. Amritha B.A.M.S

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects the skin, leading to the development of red, scaly patches that can be itchy and uncomfortable. It is often linked to an imbalance in the Pitta dosha, which is responsible for the body’s metabolic processes. This imbalance can lead to inflammation and an accumulation of toxins (ama) in the body. Ayurvedic treatment for psoriasis offers a holistic approach by focusing on balancing the body’s energies, enhancing detoxification, and integrating lifestyle changes. By addressing the condition’s root causes and supporting overall well-being, Ayurveda can help improve the quality of life for those with psoriasis.

According to Ayurveda, psoriasis results from a combination of internal and external factors that disturb the balance of the doshas:

• Dietary Factors: Consuming excessive spicy, salty, or acidic foods can increase Pitta. Foods that are too dry or heavy may aggravate Vata.
• Stress: Emotional stress is a significant trigger, exacerbating Pitta and leading to flare-ups.
• Lifestyle Factors: Irregular sleep, inadequate hydration, and exposure to harsh environmental conditions can disrupt dosha balance.
• Environmental Factors: Exposure to extreme temperatures or pollutants can aggravate Pitta and affect skin health.

Ayurvedic Perspective of Psoriasis

From an Ayurvedic perspective, this disease can be compared with Kitibha Kushta (a skin lesion) because most of its signs and symptoms mimic erythrodermic psoriasis. In terms of Ayurveda, psoriasis is often associated with an imbalance in the Pitta dosha. When aggravated, this dosha, responsible for the body’s metabolic processes and inflammatory responses, leads to excessive heat and inflammation, which manifests as the symptoms of psoriasis. The accumulation of toxins (ama) and imbalances in the body’s tissues (dhatus) are also contributing factors.The Pitta dosha is restored, detoxification is enhanced, and imbalances in the body’s tissues are corrected through Ayurvedic treatment for psoriasis.

Dosha Imbalance: 

The disease can cause the skin to become inflamed, hot, and covered with scaling. The goal of Ayurvedic treatment is to restore Pitta balance and reduce inflammation.

Ama (Toxins):

Ama refers to the toxic byproducts of improperly digested food and imbalanced bodily functions. Ama can accumulate in the skin and contribute to the development of psoriasis. Addressing ama through detoxification is a crucial part of Ayurvedic treatment.

Dhatu Imbalance:

In Ayurvedic understanding, the body comprises seven dhatus (tissues), with the skin being one of them. The disease impacts the Rasa dhatu (plasma) and Rakta dhatu (blood), resulting in symptoms on the skin’s surface. Balancing these dhatus and supporting overall skin health is the goal of treatment.

Ayurvedic Treatment for Psoriasis

Ayurveda explains mainly 18 types of skin diseases under two categories named Maha Kushta (major skin diseases) and Kshudra Kushta (minor skin diseases), based on the severity of their manifestations. Each major category is further detailed, including the dosha involvement and skin appearances. Because of the disease’s prolonged nature, the involvement of the deeper dhatus, and the predominance of doshas, Shodhana is the first and foremost line of treatment in Kushta. Repeated Shodana, depending on the predominance of doshas and strength of the patient, is to be done, as per the advice put forward by Acharyas. The treatment is done in three phases. 

First Phase involves preparing the body for cleansing through internal and external oleation. Medicated ghee is administered with a strict regimen (Snehapanam) for internal oleation.

Second Phase focuses on cleansing the body by eliminating impurities. Emesis (Vamanam) or purgation (Virechanam) typically achieves this, conducted under medical supervision and following strict protocols. Additionally, based on the patient’s condition, medicated oil enemas and herbal decoction enemas (Vasti) may be performed.

Third Phase is for the healing and maintaining of the positive effects or correction brought about by the previous phases. Specific internal medicines are also prescribed.

Diet and Nutrition

Diet plays a vital role in balancing Pitta dosha and managing psoriasis. Recommended dietary changes include:

Cooling Foods: Cucumbers, melons, leafy greens, and dairy products help cool the body and reduce inflammation.

Anti-inflammatory Spices: Incorporate spices like turmeric, ginger, and coriander, which have natural anti-inflammatory properties.

Avoiding Aggravating Foods: Reduce or eliminate spicy, acidic, and fried foods that can aggravate Pitta and exacerbate psoriasis symptoms.

Maintaining proper hydration and consuming herbal teas can also aid in flushing out toxins and maintaining skin health.

Lifestyle Modifications

To support overall health and manage psoriasis, lifestyle changes are emphasized by Ayurveda.

Stress Management: Incorporate yoga, meditation, and deep-breathing exercises to reduce stress, which can trigger or worsen psoriasis.

Adequate Sleep: Ensure a consistent and restful sleep schedule to support the body’s natural healing processes.

Routine: To maintain dosha balance, follow a balanced daily routine that includes regular meals, physical activity, and relaxation.

Conclusion

Dheemahi Ayurveda promotes patient health and well-being through a dedicated team of expert doctors and a steadfast commitment to traditional Ayurvedic principles. Their approach involves regular consultations, consistent follow-up check-ups, and active doctor supervision during therapeutic sessions, particularly for chronic conditions. The distinctive strength of Dheemahi Ayurveda lies in blending the wisdom accumulated over the past five generations with contemporary healthcare practices. This integration results in a comprehensive and personalised approach to patient care. 

The meticulous documentation of treatment schedules adds an element of transparency and accountability to the healthcare process. Dheemahi Ayurveda is unwavering in its dedication to delivering authentic and effective Ayurvedic treatment for psoriasis, with a keen awareness of tailoring these treatments to meet each patient’s unique needs.

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