What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis: Ayurvedic Perspective
According to Ayurveda, the occurrence of skin disorders like psoriasis can be attributed to two main factors. Firstly, an imbalance in the primary functional energies of the body, known as Doshas, is considered significant. The symptoms of psoriasis arise when there is an imbalance in two specific Doshas, namely Vata and Kapha. Vata contributes to skin scaling and joint pain, while Kapha leads to itching and skin discharges. Additionally, an imbalance in Pitta affects the skin, resulting in redness and inflammation. The second factor contributing to this condition is the accumulation of toxins in the body, dispersed throughout various areas such as the blood and skin. These toxins impact the body’s tissues, giving rise to psoriasis. In Ayurveda, the focus of psoriasis treatment revolves around eliminating toxins and restoring energy balance to promote overall well-being. Psoriasis Ayurveda treatment thus focuses on helping to remove toxins and maintaining the energy balance.
Psoriasis Treatment
Ayurvedic Treatment for Psoriasis
The Ayurvedic treatment for psoriasis uses different approaches. This depends on the nature of the symptoms. A patient who only has skin symptoms need to be handled differently from one who has psoriatic arthritis. A consultation with the patient is used to understand the specific symptoms and the constitution of the patient. Based on this various treatment options are advised:
Ayurvedic Medicine for Psoriasis
Ayurveda makes use of herbal medicines to treat Psoriasis. The nail psoriasis treatment in Ayurveda can also be carried out by supplements that help maintain the Dosha. Triphala is one of the popular herbs in Ayurveda that can help reduce toxins and help rebalance the body. Turmeric is one of the most powerful and helpful Ayurvedic herbs that are antibacterial, antifungal, and can help cleanse the blood. Guggulu is an Ayurvedic supplement that helps to reduce inflammation. Ashwagandha, Amalaki, and Shatavari are other popular herbal medicines used to help manage psoriasis.
Diet for Psoriasis
Psoriasis patients need to follow a strict diet. The diet would be designed keeping the following in mind:
- Eating cooked food and avoiding raw or cold food.
- Sugary foods should be avoided and instead natural sweet foods like fruits to be consumed.
- Avoiding improper food combinations that could worsen the symptoms of psoriasis (like fish and milk products).
- Buttermilk is recommended to help reduce heat and help manage inflammation.
A low-carb diet is helpful for psoriasis patients.
Lifestyle Changes
One of the main causes of most diseases is poor lifestyle choices. Lack of exercise, not getting sufficient sleep, and not following a daily routine for food upsets the body’s metabolism. This helps toxins to build up in the body. For effective Ayurvedic treatment for scalp psoriasis or any other type of psoriasis, lifestyle changes are needed:
- Regular exercise is recommended. Yoga can be helpful especially for psoriatic arthritis treatment in Ayurveda.
- Meditation is recommended to help manage stress since stress can worsen symptoms. Breathing exercises of Pranayama can be very helpful.
- A good night’s sleep is essential to help rejuvenate the body.
- Following a proper routine of getting up early, going to bed early, eating meals on time, avoiding unnecessary eating, and being physically active is necessary.