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.
