What is the Cure Perspective for Psoriasis  through Ayurveda

Dr. Amritha B.A.M.S

The Ayurvedic perspective on treating psoriasis focuses on restoring balance to the body’s doshas, particularly Pitta, through diet, lifestyle changes, herbal remedies, and detoxification. 

According to Ayurvedic principles, psoriasis is primarily attributed to an imbalance in the Pitta dosha, which governs metabolic and inflammatory processes in the body. This imbalance leads to the overproduction of skin cells, resulting in the characteristic plaques of psoriasis. 

For those seeking psoriasis Ayurvedic treatment in Kerala, these methods aim to rebalance the doshas and alleviate symptoms naturally.

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by the rapid growth of skin cells, leading to thick, scaly patches on the skin. 

These patches can appear anywhere on the body but are most commonly found on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back. While psoriasis is not contagious, it can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life and emotional well-being.

Psoriasis occurs due to an overactive immune system. In a healthy immune system, T cells, a type of white blood cell, help protect the body from infections and diseases. In individuals with psoriasis, T cells mistakenly attack healthy skin cells as if they were foreign invaders.

This immune response triggers the rapid production of new skin cells, which accumulate on the surface and form the characteristic plaques of 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.

Cure Perspective for Psoriasis through Ayurveda

In Ayurveda, psoriasis is primarily linked to an imbalance in the Pitta dosha, which governs the body’s heat, inflammation, and metabolic processes. Pitta imbalances lead to excessive heat and inflammation, accelerating skin cell turnover and resulting in the characteristic plaques of psoriasis. While Pitta is central to the condition, Vata and Kapha doshas also play roles in the overall health balance.

According to Ayurveda, psoriasis is considered a chronic condition that is challenging to cure, which is why it is referred to as “Dushchikitsa” or difficult to treat. In Ayurvedic treatment, addressing the root cause of a disease is essential for effective and long-lasting treatment.

Ayurveda recommends a therapeutic approach called “Shodhana,” which involves purification therapies. These therapies are designed to eliminate toxins from the body and balance the doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha). By purifying the body, Ayurveda aims to remove the underlying causes of psoriasis and prevent its recurrence.

Ayurvedic Treatment for Psoriasis

In Ayurvedic management of psoriasis, a combination of Samana (Pacifying treatment) and Shodhana (Purification treatment) is often employed.

Samana Karma (Pacifying Treatment):

• This involves using internal medications to balance and pacify the doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) believed to be imbalanced in psoriasis, providing a sense of security and balance to the patient. Internal medications may include herbal formulations, dietary recommendations, and lifestyle changes to reduce symptoms and promote overall health.

Diet and Nutrition:

Cooling Foods: To counteract Pitta’s heat, Ayurveda recommends incorporating cooling, soothing foods into the diet. These foods help reduce inflammation and provide hydration.

Avoiding Pitta-Aggravating Foods: Certain foods can exacerbate Pitta imbalances:

• Spicy, Acidic, and Oily Foods: Foods such as chilli peppers, tomatoes, and fried items can worsen psoriasis.
• Processed Foods and Alcohol: These can increase inflammation and disrupt dosha balance.

Hydration: Drinking adequate water is crucial for maintaining skin moisture and overall well-being.

Lifestyle Modifications:

Stress Management: Stress is a known trigger for psoriasis flare-ups. Ayurveda emphasizes stress-reducing practices:

• Yoga and Meditation: Regular yoga and meditation can help manage stress and improve overall health.
• Deep Breathing Exercises: Techniques like Pranayama can help calm the mind and reduce stress levels.

Consistent Routine: Maintaining a regular daily routine supports dosha balance:

• Regular Sleep Patterns: Consistent sleep schedules contribute to overall balance.
• Balanced Meals: Eating meals at regular intervals supports metabolic functions and dosha equilibrium.

Avoiding Environmental Stressors: Minimizing exposure to extreme temperatures, pollutants, and harsh chemicals helps prevent Pitta aggravation and supports skin health.

Shodhana Karma (Purification Treatment):

Psoriasis is seen in Ayurveda as a condition where imbalanced doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) mix with the seven elements of the body (Rasa, Rakta, Mamsa, Lasika), leading to symptoms. To address this, purification therapy (shodhana) is crucial in treatment.

This approach involves Panchakarma therapies, which are a set of purification procedures designed to eliminate toxins from the body and restore balance, instilling confidence in the patient about its detoxifying benefits. Panchakarma procedures may include therapeutic vomiting (Vamana), purgation (Virechana), enemas (Basti), and medication administration through the nose (Nasya). Also, include blood purification (Rakta Mokshana)

Dheemahi – Ayurvedic treatment for Psoriasis

Dheemahi Ayurveda prioritises patient health and well-being through a rich tradition of Ayurvedic wisdom passed down through five generations. Our team comprises expert doctors who are committed to your health journey. 

Dheemahi Ayurveda is an authentic and traditional Ayurveda Hospital.

With daily consultations, we provide more reliability, as physical examinations allow doctors to make more findings about the patient’s condition.

At Dheemahi Ayurveda, we understand the importance of routine follow-up check-ups for chronic diseases. These check-ups are a crucial part of your treatment plan and are never overlooked. In the case of therapies to relieve symptoms, the supervision of our doctors is paramount, ensuring you feel cared for and supported throughout your journey to wellness.

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Kerala is famous for its traditional Ayurvedic treatments, making it a popular choice for those seeking authentic care. The cost of Ayurveda packages in Kerala can vary based on several things, like the type and length of treatment, the place you stay, the experience of the practitioners, and the location of the center. Longer or specialized treatments usually cost more, and luxury resorts charge higher rates than standard centers. Additionally, centers located in popular tourist areas tend to be more expensive. Knowing these factors can help you choose a treatment plan that suits your health needs and budget while still providing good value.

Factors Affecting Ayurveda Package Costs

The price of an Ayurveda package can vary based on multiple factors, including the type of treatment, the length of the program, and the quality of accommodations, alongside any additional wellness services included.

The treatment type significantly influences the cost. For instance, rejuvenation therapies, such as Rasayana Chikitsa, aim to refresh the body and typically incorporate methods like Abhyanga (oil massage), Shirodhara, and various herbal treatments. These options are usually moderately priced. On the other hand, detox programs, known as Panchakarma Therapy, consist of intensive cleansing techniques—like Vamana (emesis), Virechana (purgation), Basti (medicated enemas), and Nasya (nasal cleansing), —which require specialized care and tend to be more costly.

The program's duration also plays a crucial role in determining the price. Short-term programs (lasting 3–7 days) are focused on relaxation and basic rejuvenation. Medium-term programs (10–14 days) are designed for deeper detoxification, while long-term programs (21 days or more) are recommended for addressing chronic health issues and facilitating comprehensive healing. These extended programs require expert supervision and tailored care, resulting in higher costs.

Additionally, the quality of accommodations affects overall pricing. Some resorts may only offer basic rooms, while others provide luxurious villas with high-end amenities. Many Ayurvedic packages include sattvic meals, specifically prepared to harmonize the doshas, which can contribute to the overall expense. Furthermore, additional wellness services, such as yoga, meditation, wellness consultations, and nature walks, enhance the overall healing experience, though they can also add to the total cost. The location of the resort is another important factor, as those situated near beaches, hilltops, or other desirable areas typically charge more for their packages.

What Influences the Value of an Ayurveda Package

The value of an Ayurveda package depends on several important factors such as the quality of treatments, accommodations, location, and the expertise of the practitioners. First, personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs and including more therapy sessions can increase the package's worth. The duration of the stay also matters; longer programs, like Panchakarma, tend to provide more comprehensive benefits but are usually more expensive. Accommodation quality plays a role too, with luxury resorts charging more for amenities and special Ayurvedic diets. The location of the Ayurveda center can affect pricing, especially if it's in popular areas like Kerala. Additionally, the experience of the therapists and their training can add to the value, particularly if senior professionals are involved. Finally, packages that include extra services like yoga classes, herbal medicines, and educational workshops enhance overall value by offering long-term benefits.

Cost Comparison: Kerala vs Other Ayurveda Destinations

When considering Ayurveda treatments, Kerala stands out not only for its authenticity but also for its cost-effectiveness compared to other Ayurvedic destinations in India. One of the primary benefits of choosing Kerala is the availability of certified Ayurveda centers. These establishments are often recognized for their adherence to traditional practices and standards, ensuring a genuine experience. Additionally, expert practitioners with extensive training and experience are more accessible in Kerala, further enhancing the quality of treatment.
In terms of overall costs, Kerala tends to offer competitive pricing while maintaining high standards of service. This makes it an attractive option for both local and international travelers seeking holistic healing experiences without compromising on quality.

Ayurvedic Diet and Lifestyle for Thyroid Health

Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of a balanced diet and lifestyle in managing thyroid disorders. By following specific dietary guidelines and daily routines (Dinacharya), individuals can support thyroid hormone production, enhance metabolism, and maintain overall well-being.
1. Diet Recommendations

• Include Iodine-Rich Foods: Moderate consumption of iodine-rich foods like seaweed, dairy, and eggs helps support thyroid function.
• Avoid Processed and Refined Foods: Processed foods, refined sugars, and artificial additives can aggravate Kapha and Pitta doshas, leading to metabolic imbalances.
• Limit Raw Goitrogenic Vegetables: Excessive raw cruciferous vegetables (like cabbage, cauliflower, and broccoli) can interfere with iodine absorption and thyroid hormone production. Instead, consume them cooked.
• Focus on Warm, Cooked Meals: Easily digestible, warm meals with spices like turmeric, ginger, and black pepper help stimulate metabolism and improve digestion.
• Reduce Caffeine and Excess Dairy: Excess caffeine can overstimulate the nervous system, while excessive dairy may contribute to Kapha imbalance, which can slow metabolism.

2. Hydration

• Drinking warm water throughout the day helps aid digestion, detoxification, and the removal of toxins (Ama) that may interfere with thyroid function.

3. Sleep and Rest

• Maintain a regular sleep schedule, aiming for 7-8 hours of restful sleep each night to support hormonal balance and energy levels.
• Avoid late-night screen time and heavy meals before bed, as they can disrupt sleep patterns and metabolism.

4. Stress Management

• Practice mindfulness, meditation, and deep breathing techniques to reduce stress, which is a major factor in thyroid imbalances.
• Engage in relaxing activities like Abhyanga (oil massage) and Shirodhara to calm the nervous system.

5. Exercise and Physical Activity

• Moderate physical activity such as walking, gentle yoga, and stretching helps boost metabolism and maintain energy levels.
• Specific yoga asanas, including Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand) and Halasana (Plow Pose), directly stimulate thyroid function.

By incorporating these Ayurvedic dietary and lifestyle recommendations, individuals can naturally support their thyroid health, balance doshas, and improve overall well-being.

The Benefits of Ayurvedic Thyroid Treatment in Kerala

Kerala’s Ayurvedic treatments for thyroid disorders offer a unique and highly effective approach, combining traditional wisdom with natural healing techniques. The state is renowned for its authentic Ayurvedic centers, experienced practitioners, and serene environment, all of which contribute to effective thyroid management.

1. Holistic Approach

• Ayurveda addresses the root cause of thyroid imbalances rather than merely alleviating symptoms. Focusing on detoxification (Panchakarma), herbal treatments, and lifestyle modifications ensures long-term relief and improved overall health.

2. Personalized Care

• Treatments are customized based on an individual’s doshic constitution (Prakriti) and a specific thyroid condition, ensuring a highly effective and tailored approach.

3. Natural and Safe Therapies

• Ayurvedic treatments rely on herbal medicines and natural procedures, reducing dependency on synthetic drugs and minimizing the risk of side effects. Herbs like Kanchanara Guggulu, Ashwagandha, Triphala, and Brahmi help regulate thyroid function naturally.

4. Expert Practitioners

• Kerala is home to some of the most experienced Ayurvedic doctors and therapists, ensuring high-quality care based on centuries-old healing traditions.

5. Healing Environment

• The lush greenery, fresh air, and tranquil ambiance of Kerala enhance the healing process by promoting deep relaxation and rejuvenation, which is crucial for managing stress-induced thyroid disorders.

By choosing Ayurvedic thyroid treatment in Kerala, individuals benefit from a holistic, natural, and personalized healing experience, ensuring long-term wellness and improved quality of life.

Conclusion

Thyroid disorders can greatly affect one’s quality of life, but Ayurveda provides a natural and holistic path to healing. Dheemahi Ayurveda, known for its authentic Ayurvedic treatments, offers specialized therapies to restore thyroid balance and overall well-being. Kerala, with its rich Ayurvedic heritage and world-class treatment centers, is the perfect destination for those seeking personalized and effective thyroid care. By addressing the root causes of thyroid imbalances and promoting a harmonious lifestyle, Ayurvedic treatments in Kerala go beyond symptom relief, ensuring long-term health and vitality. Whether you are managing hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, or simply looking to maintain optimal thyroid function, Dheemahi Ayurveda’s expert-led therapies provide a time-tested, holistic, and rejuvenating solution.