How Effective is Ayurvedic Treatment for Psoriasis? 

What Is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a long-lasting autoimmune condition that causes inflammation and scaly, discolored patches on the skin called plaques. It’s a chronic skin issue, meaning it can flare up unexpectedly, and there is currently no cure.

 There are different types of psoriasis, each with unique characteristics:

• Plaque psoriasis is the most common, affecting 80-90% of people with psoriasis and causing thick, scaly patches.
• Inverse psoriasis appears in skin folds and results in thinner, smooth plaques without scales.
• Guttate psoriasis often follows a strep throat infection, causing small, red, drop-like scaly spots, mostly in children and young adults.
• Pustular psoriasis shows up as pus-filled bumps on top of plaques.
• Erythrodermic psoriasis is a severe form, covering most of the skin with widespread discoloration and shedding.
• Sebopsoriasis typically affects the face and scalp, forming greasy, yellowish scales that resemble seborrheic dermatitis.
• Nail psoriasis causes discolouration, pitting, and changes in the nails.

Why Consider Ayurvedic Treatment for Psoriasis?

Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to managing psoriasis by focusing on the person as a whole rather than just the symptoms. Unlike conventional treatments that rely on medications to manage symptoms, Ayurveda includes dietary adjustments, lifestyle changes, and herbal remedies aimed at addressing the root cause. Treatments are customized to each person’s unique dosha balance, making them highly personalized. Beyond treating symptoms, Ayurveda also emphasizes preventive care through daily routines (Dinacharya) and seasonal practices (Ritucharya) to maintain dosha harmony. Mind, body, and spirit are equally important in Ayurveda, so practices like meditation and yoga are integrated to manage stress and emotional triggers that may worsen psoriasis. This comprehensive approach not only eases physical symptoms but also enhances overall well-being and promotes a balanced lifestyle.

Understanding Psoriasis in Ayurveda

In Ayurveda, skin diseases are categorized under “Kushta,” which is further divided into two main types: “Mahakushta” and “Kshudrakushta.” One specific condition that falls under Kshudrakushta is “Kitibha Kushta,” which exhibits symptoms similar to Plaque Psoriasis. Kitibha Kusta is characterized by discolouration (Shyava Varna), a rough or scaly texture (Kinakhara Sparsha), hardness (Parushatva), and dryness (Ruksha).

According to Ayurvedic principles, every Kusta condition arises from an imbalance among seven key factors: the three doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), along with Twak (skin), Rakta (blood), Mamsa (muscle), and Lasika (lymphatic system). In essence, Kitibha Kusta, much like Psoriasis, is thought to result from disruptions in these elements, leading to the specific skin symptoms observed.

According to Ayurveda, the causes of Psoriasis include:

•  Eating incompatible foods, such as fish and milk.
•  Consuming heavy and oily beverages.
•  Suppressing natural urges, including those for vomiting, sleep, and thirst.
•  Exercising excessively in hot weather or after a heavy meal.
•  Drinking cold water immediately after being in the hot sun.
•  Consuming raw or poorly digested foods.
•  Eating before the previous meal has been fully digested.
• Overindulging in certain foods like fresh grains, curd, fish, salt, and pungent-tasting items.
•  Excessive consumption of pastries, milk, and jaggery.
•  Engaging in sexual activity when digestion is compromised.
•  Taking naps during the day.

These factors can contribute to the imbalance that leads to conditions like Psoriasis in Ayurveda.

Ayurvedic Treatment Approaches for Psoriasis

Panchakarma Therapy

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that results from imbalances in the body’s fundamental elements, particularly the three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. This persistent dermatological issue requires a comprehensive and specialized treatment approach. Central to this strategy is Shodhana, a purification therapy that targets the root causes of psoriasis to achieve effective results. By focusing on harmonizing and purifying the imbalances within these doshas, Shodhana not only helps to alleviate the visible symptoms but also aims to prevent the recurrence of this challenging skin disorder.

VIRECHANA

Virechana Treatment is a controlled purgation therapy that uses herbal laxatives to remove excess Pitta and toxins from the body. This treatment is effective for liver detoxification, which is important for overall skin health. By clearing out excess Pitta and toxins, Virechana helps reduce inflammation throughout the body, which can improve psoriasis symptoms. It is particularly helpful for balancing aggravated Pitta, addressing the inflammatory factors associated with psoriasis.

VAMANAM

Vamana Treatment is a controlled procedure that induces therapeutic vomiting to eliminate excess Kapha from the body. This treatment helps reduce the thickening and congestion associated with psoriasis plaques by removing excess Kapha. It is particularly effective for detoxifying the upper body, including the skin. Additionally, Vamana can help balance the immune system, which is important for managing autoimmune conditions like psoriasis.

Diet for Psoriasis  

Psoriasis patients need to follow a strict diet focused on several key principles:

• Cooked Foods: It’s important to consume mostly cooked foods while avoiding raw or cold items.
• Limit Sugary Foods: Refined sugars should be avoided. Instead, incorporating natural sweets like fruits is recommended.
• Food Combinations: Certain combinations, such as fish and dairy products, should be avoided as they may exacerbate symptoms.
• Buttermilk: This is encouraged for its ability to reduce heat and manage inflammation in the body.
• Low-Carb Diet: A diet low in carbohydrates is beneficial for those suffering from psoriasis.

Lifestyle Changes  

Many diseases stem from poor lifestyle choices, and this is especially true for psoriasis. Improvements in lifestyle can significantly impact overall health. Consider the following:

• Exercise: Regular physical activity, including yoga, can be particularly helpful in managing symptoms of psoriatic arthritis.
• Stress Management: Meditation is beneficial for stress reduction. Additionally, breathing exercises like Pranayama can help.
• Adequate Sleep: Ensuring enough restorative sleep is crucial for revitalizing the body.
• Establish a Routine: Adopting a structured daily routine—waking up early, going to bed early, eating meals on time, and maintaining physical activity—will help improve metabolism and prevent the buildup of toxins in the body.

Common Ayurvedic Treatments and Their Benefits

ABHYANGA

Abhyanga is a warm oil massage from Ayurveda that uses special oils tailored to a person’s dosha. For those with psoriasis, regular Abhyanga can help soothe inflammation, reduce itching, and keep the skin hydrated, which can ease the symptoms. The massage also boosts blood flow and helps remove toxins from the body. By calming the Pitta Dosha, which often contributes to psoriasis flare-ups, Abhyanga can lessen the severity of scaly patches and improve skin texture over time.

LEPANAM

Lepa is a treatment that involves putting herbal pastes on the skin where there are problems. For people with psoriasis, it can help lessen redness, swelling, and itching. It cools the skin and helps remove toxins, which can promote healing. If used regularly, Lepa can also reduce scaling and rough patches, making the skin feel smoother.

SHIRODHARA

Shirodhara is a soothing therapy that involves pouring a steady stream of warm medicated liquid over the forehead. It aims to balance the mind and nervous system, making it especially beneficial for individuals with psoriasis, as stress is a major trigger for flare-ups. By calming the mind and reducing anxiety, Shirodhara can help lower the frequency of psoriasis outbreaks. This therapy works by harmonizing Vata Dosha and promoting better sleep quality and mental clarity, positively impacting both mental well-being and skin health.

BODYDHARA

Bodydhara therapy is similar to Shirodhara, as it involves a continuous flow of medicated liquid being poured over the body. This treatment is designed to reduce inflammation and enhance skin texture, making it particularly beneficial for people with psoriasis. The cooling and anti-inflammatory properties of the liquid help soothe inflamed skin while also promoting detoxification and hydration, which are essential for managing psoriasis. By calming excess Pitta, which is often linked to the heat and inflammation caused by this condition, Bodydhara can provide relief and support healthier skin.

For people with severe psoriasis, Ayurvedic treatments alone might not be enough. These serious cases usually require quick relief, which traditional treatments like biologics or corticosteroids can offer. However, Ayurveda can still be helpful alongside these treatments, especially for those with moderate to severe psoriasis. Ayurvedic practices can support the immune system, lower stress, and help detoxify the body, which may help reduce psoriasis symptoms. When used together with conventional treatments, Ayurveda might also lessen the side effects of long-term medications and improve overall health.

Preparing for Ayurvedic Treatment

When choosing an Ayurvedic practitioner, it’s important to find someone who is properly trained, certified, and experienced, particularly in treating skin conditions like psoriasis. They should create personalized treatment plans based on your specific health needs. Ayurvedic psoriasis treatment usually requires a long-term commitment, as it aims to address the root causes instead of just the symptoms. The initial phase will often involve detoxification and dietary changes, which can take several weeks. You may start noticing benefits over a few months, so consistency is essential. During the detox phase, you might feel some mild effects, like fatigue or digestive changes, as your body releases toxins. If you experience any side effects from herbal remedies, discuss them with your practitioner, who can adjust your treatment as needed. Following their guidance on herbal remedies and lifestyle changes will help you see better results and prevent flare-ups in the future.

Maintaining Results and Preventing Psoriasis Flares

To maintain the results of Ayurvedic psoriasis treatment, it’s important to adopt a balanced lifestyle that supports your skin, immunity, and mental health. Start with a balanced diet by eating fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables while avoiding processed foods and heavy spices. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and herbal teas. Incorporate anti-inflammatory foods like turmeric and ginger into your meals. Manage stress through regular meditation, deep breathing, or gentle yoga, and ensure you get enough restful sleep to boost your immunity. For skin care, moisturize frequently with natural products like coconut oil or aloe vera gel, and avoid harsh chemicals. Additionally, protect your skin from extreme weather and maintain a consistent routine for eating and sleeping. You can also follow a morning routine that includes self-massage with balancing oils, regular moderate exercise, and seasonal detoxes with guidance from an Ayurvedic practitioner to help avoid flare-ups.

Summary: Is Ayurvedic Treatment Effective for Psoriasis?

Ayurveda provides a holistic approach to psoriasis by balancing doshas, detoxifying the body, and enhancing immune function. It emphasizes dietary changes, stress management, and natural remedies. Effective for mild to moderate cases, it also complements conventional treatments for severe cases, focusing on long-term relief and personalized care for better skin health.