Ayurvedic Treatment for Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a non-infectious chronic inflammatory disease of skin. It is characterized by well-defined erythematous plaques with silvery scales having chronic fluctuatory course affecting both sex and different age groups. Kustha is described as one of the most chronic diseases in Ayurveda. Under the heading - 'Kustha', Ayurveda described a wide range of dermatological disorders including its classification, etiopathogenesis, clinical presentation, prevention and management.

Large amount of research work have been done on psoriasis treatment in Ayurveda and modern medical science but no drug has yet been claimed to cure psoriasis completely. Ayurvedic Psoriasis treatment puts together the balance of the spirit, mind, and body. Hence, This as a holistic approach by treating the whole body and not the specific symptoms of the disease. Basically, Ayurvedic medicine helps in the promotion of wellness and prevention of illness. Various techniques and products are used in restoring balance and cleansing of the body.

Psoriasis can be better managed by the Ayurvedic principles of management namely: NidanaParivarjana, Shodhana (Panchakarma therapy), Shamana Chikitsa and Pathyapathya.

Nidana Parivarjana:
This means avoidance of etiological factors like Mithya Ahara- Vihara & Viruddha Ahara. Nidana Parivarjana stops the further progression of the disease, by restricting vitiation of Doshas. Hence main objective of treatment is to improve metabolic activities in Dhatu level, to rectify Srotoavrodha and to provide nourishment to depleted Dhatus.

Panchakarma Chikitsa:
As psoriasis is chronic & relapsing in nature and also there is an involvement of Tridosha & Twaka, Rakta, Mamsa, Lasika & Kleda, hence repeated Shodhana is required for treatment. Samshodhana is one of the important treatment of Ayurveda which deals mainly with elimination of the aggravated Doshas from the body. These Doshas (toxins and waste material) should be eliminated naturally as well as from nearest root of the body. Ghritapana (Oral administration of medicated Ghee), Vamana(emesis) is recommended and if needed Virechana(Purgation) can also be carried out

Shamana Chikitsa:
Shamana Aushadha (Medication) – Both external and internal medication is given. Superficially the elimination of toxins can be assisted by Moisturising the skin daily with a suitable, healing cream, Oleation or regular massage of the skin using suitable oil internally, to assist in proper elimination of toxins; the most important advice is to restore the digestive fire to its optimum level.

Reducing stress levels through meditation and other activity, Exposing the skin to sunlight for 30 minutes a day if possible, Gentle regular sweating to excrete toxins from the system is helpful.

Pathyapathya (Dos and donts):
simple adjustments to eating habits will make an enormous difference: Eat plenty of leafy, green vegetables, Eat cooked, warm food, Eat only when hungry, Avoid eating frequent, small meals or snacks , Drink water when you are thirsty and avoid flooding the body, Avoid acidic foods, red meat, red fish, tropical fruit, red wine, tomatoes, cold raw salads, nuts and seeds, Avoid sour foods such as yoghurt, dairy products In addition, consciously incorporating these habits into your regular routine will have enormous benefits for your well-being and keeps psoriasis away for long time. Passing urine regularly whenever the body requires, Maintaining a diet which promotes regular, healthy bowel movements, Normal diet is indicated in all types of Kustha. Sour, salty, heat producing items like pepper etc.; curd, milk, jaggery,meat of marshy animals, sesame seeds, black gram are contraindicated; sexual intercourse and alcoholic drinks are to be restricted; Old rice, barley, green gram, bitter vegetables and meat of wild animals are wholesome.

Psoriasis flare up due to stress & tensions so we should avoid it, psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder it is not curable but it can be limited or contained avoidance of the causative factors and lifestyle modifications along with Ayurvedic medicines and immune modulator drugs is the key to achieve good results in Psoriasis.