Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory condition which mainly affects the skin and joint. It affects males more commonly than females. Various sites of the body such as scalp, palms, face, trunk, soles are involved in psoriasis.
What is the cause of Psoriasis in Ayurveda?
In Ayurveda, skin diseases are categorized under a common term of Kushtha. According to Ayurveda, there is involvement of Pitta, Kapha and Rakta doshas and Rasadhatu, Mamsadhatu and Raktadhatu are the dushyas involved. which result in symptoms such as Kandu (itching), Daha (burning sensation), Raktavarnata (redness) etc.
Dosha-dushya samurcchana (pathological progress) takes place due to the circulation of vitiated doshas and their Sthanasamshraya (site of pathological changes) at Twak (skin).
Intake of Virudhahara (unwholesome dietary habits) is one of the important causative factors in the etiopathogenesis of skin disorders. Therefore, patient should avoid wrong dietary combinations for better treatment response and speedy recovery.
What is the treatment of Psoriasis?
In modern medicine, topical and systemic immunosuppressive therapy is prescribed which results in symptomatic relief only.
What is the Ayurvedic treatment of Psoriasis?
Due to the complex pathophysiology and chronic and relapsing nature of the disease, the multimodal treatment approach is adopted in Ayurveda involves Jirnajwara Chikitsa, Vatarakta Chikitsa, Kushtha Chikitsa and Rasayana Chikitsa.
Herbs having Tikta rasa (bitter taste) are prescribed for the treatment of Psoriasis as these help in Rasadhatu and Raktdhatu prasadana by pacifying vitiated Kapha and Pitta doshas.
Ayurveda also prescribes medicines for liver detoxification for the treatment of Psoriasis as it is believed that liver is an important organ for the normal functioning of Pitta dosha and Raktadhatu.
Some of the herbs useful in the treatment of Psoriasis are:
1. Nimb twaq (Melia azadirachta): Neem is one of the best herbs for the treatment of skin disorders including psoriasis.
• It has tikta rasa (bitter taste) which makes it an excellent blood cleanser.
• Neem has the property of balancing Pitta and Kapha doshas which makes it quite an effective herb for psoriasis.
2. Haridra (Curcuma longa): Turmeric is a well-known spice in India.
• It helps in correcting agni (digestive fire) due to its tikta rasa and laghu-ruksha qualities. Hence, it cleanses and detoxifies rasa.
• Haridra also helps in immune-modulation by correcting metabolism.
• Moreover, the anti-inflammatory property of haridra is beneficial in the treatment of psoriasis.
3. Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia): Guduchi is a famous Ayurvedic herb which is known by the name ‘Amrita’.
• It is a well-known immuno-modulator herb used in the correction of auto-immunity. Due to this, it is quite useful in auto-immune disorder psoriasis.
• It is one of the few herbs in Ayurveda that balances all the three doshas.
• It has tikta and Kashaya rasa, Madhur vipaka. It is such a potent immune modulator which can enhance the chances of improvement in the symptoms.
4. Anantmool (Hemidesmus indicus): Anantmool is also indicated in psoriasis due to its anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and anti-oxidant properties.
• In Charak Samhita, it is categorized under the group of herbs that relieve burning sensation.
• Due to its sheeta veerya (coolant property) and tikta (bitter) taste, it is very effective in the treatment of psoriasis.
5. Khadir twaq (Acacia catechu): In Ayurveda, khadir is commonly used in the treatment of skin disorders including psoriasis. It helps in purifying blood and possesses anti-inflammatory and immuno-modulatory actions.
• Khadira has Kledashoshaka (controlling the oozing from skin) property due to its Khara Guna (rough property).
6. Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia): Manjistha is known for its Raktashuddhikara (blood purification), Pitta-Kapha hara (balancing Pitta and Kapha doshas), Vranaropana (wound healing) and Kushtghana properties.
7. Makoy (Solanum nigrum): Makoy is commonly known as Black Night Shade plant. In Ayurveda, it is used as a Rasayana herb.
• Various skin issues such as psoriasis can be treated successfully with the use of Makoy.
• It is a key ingredient in various Ayurvedic medicines for the treatment of liver disorders.
Some Ayurvedic medicines useful in the treatment of Psoriasis are:
1. Gandhak Rasayan: The main component of Gandhak Rasayan is Sulphur. It has Kushtghana property.
• The Rasayana (rejuvenation) and Garavishahar (anti-poisonous) properties help in the treatment of psoriasis.
• Suphur possesses anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help in the treatment of auto-immune disorders such as psoriasis.
2. Kaishore Guggul: Kaishor Guggul is a polyherbal Ayurvedic preparation indicated in variety of skin disorders as well as in Vatarakta.
• It is anti-inflammatory in nature and acts as a blood purifier. It also acts as an anti-allergic and anti-bacterial.
• In Ayurveda, Guggul is well known for its yogavahi property. It acts as a drug carrier.
• Therefore, Kaishore Guggul helps in reducing redness, inflammation and acts as a natural blood cleanser by pacifying the deep seated vitiated doshas involved in psoriasis.
3. Panchtiktghrit Guggul: Panchtiktghrit Guggul is a medicated ghee tablet along with the goodness of guggul. It is a combination of herbs having Tikta rasa dominance. Conditions such as psoriasis have traditionally been treated with this ghrit which improves digestion, purify the blood.
• In the case of Kushta, doshas exist in dhatus such as Rasa, Rakta, Mamsa and Meda.
• Ghee has sukshamastrotogamitva action due to which it can penetrate deep into the tissues.
• Panchtiktghrit Guggul contains herbs that are Tikta (bitter) and Kashaya (astringent) in nature which work synergistically to treat psoriasis, possibly through liposomal drug delivery system.
4. Ras Manikya: Ras Manikya is an Ayurvedic medicine frequently used for Vataj-Kaphaj disorders.
• It is prepared by Shuddha Haratala, which is kept in between two thin transparent Abhrak sheets (mica sheets).
• Its main actions are Kushthahara, and Tridoshghana. Hence, it breaks the samprapti of the disease.
Ayurvedic herbal formulations such as Stams Syrup and Dezmocard Capsules manufactured by Yamuna Pharmacy contain all the above -mentioned herbs as well as Ayurvedic medicines. These products are completely natural and highly effective in the natural treatment of Psoriasis.
Diet and Lifestyle:
• Intake of excess salty and sour food items should be avoided.
• Simultaneous use of milk products and salty snacks should not be preferred.
• Consuming bitter foods such as pumpkin, bitter gourd, turnip, reddish and carrots are beneficial.
• Avoid citrus fruits such as orange, lemon.
• Acidic diet such as intake of tea, coffee, alcohol, soft drinks should be avoided.
• Dairy products such as yogurt should not be taken.
• Deep breathing exercises are quite helpful.
• Practice Pranayam and Meditation to relieve stress as stress is the precipitating factor of psoriasis.
Therefore, strict dietary regimen along with Ayurvedic medicines help in successful treatment of Psoriasis.
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that results in the rapid growth of skin cells, leading to thick, red, scaly patches, often on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back. It is an inflammatory condition that can cause itching, burning, and discomfort, and it often fluctuates in severity. While conventional medicine treats psoriasis with topical creams, systemic treatments, and immunosuppressive drugs, Ayurveda, the traditional system of medicine from India, offers a holistic approach to managing the condition by addressing its root causes and promoting overall balance in the body.
In Ayurveda, Psoriasis is primarily considered a Vata and Pitta dosha imbalance, characterized by aggravated Pitta (heat, inflammation) and Vata (dryness, roughness) in the body. The Ayurvedic treatment aims to balance these doshas, calm inflammation, and restore harmony to the skin and overall health.
Causes of Psoriasis According to Ayurveda
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Imbalance in Doshas (Vata and Pitta):
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Pitta imbalance: Excessive heat in the body, both internally (due to improper digestion or emotions) and externally (due to environmental factors), causes inflammation, redness, and irritation on the skin.
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Vata imbalance: The dryness, roughness, and scaling associated with psoriasis are linked to an aggravated Vata dosha, which leads to poor hydration and tissue health.
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Accumulation of Toxins (Ama):
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Ama is the toxic substance formed due to improper digestion or weak Agni (digestive fire). This undigested food, or toxins, can build up in the body and accumulate in the skin and other tissues, leading to skin conditions like psoriasis. Ama disrupts the skin’s ability to renew itself properly, causing inflammation and scaling.
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Genetic Predisposition:
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Ayurveda acknowledges the genetic component in the development of psoriasis. If there is a family history of skin diseases or autoimmune conditions, there may be a higher tendency for the body to develop imbalances that manifest as psoriasis.
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Lifestyle and Emotional Stress:
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Stress and anxiety are known to trigger or worsen psoriasis. Ayurveda views the mind-body connection as critical; emotional imbalances such as anger, frustration, and fear can contribute to the aggravation of Pitta and Vata.
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Unhealthy lifestyle choices such as poor diet, lack of sleep, excessive alcohol, smoking, or sedentary habits can further weaken the body’s internal balance and promote the development of psoriasis.
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Dietary Factors:
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Spicy, sour, salty, and fried foods can aggravate Pitta, increasing inflammation in the body and leading to skin flare-ups.
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Dairy products, especially processed milk, cheese, and sugary foods, are considered heavy and mucus-forming, which can lead to the accumulation of toxins.
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A Kapha-aggravating diet (e.g., rich, oily, or fried foods) can also lead to excessive toxins in the body, promoting skin issues.
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Ayurvedic Treatments for Psoriasis
1. Herbal Remedies
Ayurveda uses various herbs to balance the doshas, reduce inflammation, and detoxify the body. Some of the most effective herbs for treating psoriasis are:
a. Neem (Azadirachta indica):
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Neem is a powerful herb in Ayurveda with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties. It helps cleanse the blood and detoxify the body, which can help reduce the severity of psoriasis.
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How to use: Neem leaves can be made into a paste and applied topically to the affected areas. It can also be consumed as Neem capsules or Neem tea.
b. Turmeric (Curcuma longa):
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Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to calm the Pitta dosha. It can also promote skin healing and reduce redness and irritation associated with psoriasis.
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How to use: Mix turmeric powder with honey and apply to the affected areas. You can also take 1 teaspoon of turmeric with warm milk or water daily to reduce internal inflammation.
c. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera):
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Ashwagandha is an adaptogen that helps reduce stress and supports the immune system. It can be beneficial in treating psoriasis triggered or exacerbated by stress.
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How to use: Take Ashwagandha powder with warm milk or water to help balance Vata and Pitta doshas.
d. Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia):
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Guduchi is a potent immune-modulator and detoxifying herb. It helps balance Pitta and cleanse the body of toxins (Ama), which is critical in the treatment of psoriasis.
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How to use: Guduchi can be consumed in the form of Guduchi tablets or as an herbal decoction.
e. Amla (Emblica officinalis):
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Amla, or Indian gooseberry, is a powerful source of Vitamin C and has cooling properties that help balance Pitta. It also helps detoxify the body and promotes healthy skin.
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How to use: Consume Amla powder or Amla juice daily to help detoxify and nourish the skin from the inside out.
2. Ayurvedic Internal Therapies
a. Triphala:
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Triphala, a blend of Amalaki, Haritaki, and Bibhitaki, is considered a powerful detoxifier. It helps promote regular bowel movements and eliminates toxins from the body, which is essential for improving skin health.
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How to use: Take 1 teaspoon of Triphala powder with warm water at bedtime for daily detoxification.
b. Guggulu (Commiphora wightii):
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Guggulu is a potent herb used to reduce inflammation and detoxify the body. It helps in the management of skin disorders like psoriasis by purifying the blood and supporting the liver.
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How to use: Take Guggulu tablets as recommended by an Ayurvedic practitioner to enhance circulation and reduce inflammation.
c. Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus):
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Shatavari is a rejuvenating herb that supports the body’s natural ability to handle stress. It can be helpful in cases of psoriasis, especially when linked to hormonal imbalance or stress.
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How to use: Take Shatavari powder with milk or water to nourish and rejuvenate the body.
3. External Ayurvedic Therapies
a. Oil Massages (Abhyanga):
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Abhyanga, the Ayurvedic oil massage, can help balance Vata and Pitta doshas, reduce dryness, and promote healing of the skin. Special oils like Brahmi oil, Sesame oil, and Kshirabala oil are beneficial in managing psoriasis.
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How to use: Gently massage warm oil into the skin before a bath to moisturize and nourish the skin. It improves circulation and helps in the removal of toxins.
b. Ubtan (Herbal Scrubs):
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Ubtan is a traditional Ayurvedic paste made of herbs, grains, and oils. It is used to exfoliate the skin and improve circulation, which can be helpful for reducing the scales and dryness of psoriasis.
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How to use: Apply a paste made from gram flour, turmeric, milk, and sandalwood powder to the affected areas. Gently scrub it off once dry to help remove the scales.
c. Neem Bath:
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Neem is known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. A Neem bath can help reduce itching, soothe irritated skin, and promote healing.
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How to use: Add Neem leaves or Neem powder to a tub of warm water and soak in it for 15–20 minutes.
d. Aloe Vera Gel:
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Aloe Vera is soothing and has healing properties that help reduce inflammation and provide moisture to the skin. It can be used to calm itchiness and redness associated with psoriasis.
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How to use: Apply fresh Aloe Vera gel directly from the plant to the affected areas.
4. Detoxification (Panchakarma)
Panchakarma, the Ayurvedic detox program, is recommended for people suffering from chronic conditions like psoriasis. Panchakarma helps in cleansing the body of accumulated toxins (Ama), which is a key aspect in treating skin disorders.
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Vamana (therapeutic vomiting) and Virechana (therapeutic purgation) are used to expel toxins from the digestive tract.
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Nasya (nasal administration of medicated oils) is helpful for balancing Pitta and clearing toxins from the head and neck areas, including the skin.
Lifestyle and Dietary Recommendations for Psoriasis
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Eat a Pitta-pacifying diet: Avoid **spicy, sour, and
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that leads to the rapid growth of skin cells, resulting in scaly, red, and sometimes inflamed patches. Ayurveda, the traditional system of medicine, approaches psoriasis as a result of an imbalance in the body’s internal energies (Doshas), primarily the Pitta and Vata doshas. It also links it to imbalances in the Agni (digestive fire) and Rakta (blood) system. Let’s delve into the causes and treatments of psoriasis according to Ayurveda.
Causes of Psoriasis in Ayurveda:
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Imbalance in Doshas:
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Pitta Dosha: Pitta governs the body’s heat, metabolism, and transformation processes. When Pitta is aggravated, it can lead to inflammation, which manifests in the form of red, inflamed patches on the skin, similar to the symptoms of psoriasis.
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Vata Dosha: Vata controls movement and communication in the body. When Vata is imbalanced, it leads to dryness, flakiness, and a lack of lubrication in the skin, contributing to the scaling and irritation associated with psoriasis.
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Kapha Dosha: While not the primary cause, an imbalance in Kapha can contribute to mucus accumulation and cause the body to produce excessive skin cells, aggravating the condition.
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Impaired Digestion (Agni):
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In Ayurveda, poor digestion is thought to produce Ama (toxins) in the body. Ama accumulates and blocks the normal flow of energy, causing skin conditions like psoriasis.
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Blood (Rakta) Impurity:
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When the blood is contaminated with toxins (due to poor digestion or other factors), it can manifest on the skin, leading to conditions like psoriasis.
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Mental Stress and Emotional Imbalance:
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Ayurveda believes that mental stress and unresolved emotional issues, especially anger, frustration, or anxiety, can trigger Pitta and Vata imbalances, leading to skin conditions like psoriasis.
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Diet and Lifestyle Factors:
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Consumption of spicy, oily, and acidic foods, as well as alcohol, can aggravate Pitta and cause skin flare-ups.
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Lack of sleep, sedentary lifestyle, and unhealthy eating habits contribute to the accumulation of toxins and the imbalance of the doshas, leading to psoriasis.
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Treatments for Psoriasis According to Ayurveda:
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Balancing the Doshas:
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Pitta-Pacifying Diet: To calm the Pitta dosha, it’s recommended to consume cooling, hydrating foods like cucumbers, melons, leafy greens, and dairy products (if tolerated). Avoid spicy, sour, and salty foods, which aggravate Pitta.
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Vata-Pacifying Diet: For balancing Vata, include warm, moist, and oily foods, such as soups, stews, and ghee. Avoid dry and cold foods.
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Kapha-Balancing Foods: Avoid heavy, oily foods that could aggravate Kapha.
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Herbal Treatments:
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Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Known for its anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties, turmeric can help reduce redness, inflammation, and scaling.
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Neem (Azadirachta indica): Neem is a powerful detoxifier with anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It is commonly used in Ayurvedic formulations for treating skin diseases, including psoriasis.
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Aloe Vera: Aloe Vera is cooling and soothing for the skin. Its gel is often applied topically to reduce itching and inflammation.
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Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): Ashwagandha helps balance the immune system and reduce stress, which is a common trigger for psoriasis flare-ups.
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Triphala: This herbal formulation of three fruits (Amalaki, Haritaki, and Bibhitaki) promotes detoxification and digestive health, addressing the root causes of psoriasis.
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Guggulu: Guggulu is another popular herb used in Ayurvedic medicine for detoxification, improving blood circulation, and treating inflammatory conditions.
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Ayurvedic Detoxification (Panchakarma):
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Panchakarma is a cleansing therapy in Ayurveda that aims to eliminate toxins from the body. Procedures such as Abhyanga (oil massage), Swedana (steam therapy), and Basti (medicated enemas) help detoxify the body, reduce inflammation, and restore balance to the doshas.
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Nasya (nasal administration of herbal oils) can be used to clear the sinuses and improve overall respiratory health, which can be indirectly beneficial for skin conditions like psoriasis.
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Topical Applications:
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Coconut Oil: Coconut oil has moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used to soothe dry, flaky skin and reduce itching.
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Herbal Pastes: Pastes made from herbs like turmeric, sandalwood, and neem are often applied directly to the affected areas to reduce inflammation and itching.
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Lifestyle Changes:
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Stress Management: Practices like meditation, yoga, and pranayama (breathing exercises) are recommended to manage stress and maintain emotional balance, as stress is a major trigger for psoriasis flare-ups.
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Adequate Sleep: Ensure regular, restful sleep to allow the body to repair and rejuvenate itself.
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Regular Exercise: A moderate exercise routine helps improve circulation, remove toxins, and keep the doshas balanced.
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Rasayana (Rejuvenation) Therapy:
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Rasayana therapy focuses on revitalizing the body and restoring health. It uses specific herbs and dietary adjustments to enhance immunity and rejuvenate tissues, which can help manage chronic skin conditions like psoriasis.
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General Ayurvedic Tips for Managing Psoriasis:
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Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and support the body’s detoxification process.
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Avoid excessive exposure to harsh weather conditions, as extreme cold or heat can aggravate the symptoms.
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Avoid synthetic skincare products with chemicals and fragrances, as they can irritate the skin.
Conclusion:
In Ayurveda, psoriasis is seen as a multifactorial disease resulting from the imbalance of doshas, toxins in the body, and stress. The treatment involves a holistic approach, including dietary changes, herbal remedies, detoxification, lifestyle modifications, and stress management. By addressing the root cause and adopting a balanced, holistic lifestyle, it is possible to manage and reduce the symptoms of psoriasis. However, it is always advisable to consult with an experienced Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized treatment.