Symptoms & Treatments Of Eczema According To Ayurveda

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Generally, skin diseases are chronic in nature and the recurrence is very common. Eczema is chronic in nature. It is a form of dermatitis or inflammation of the upper layers of the skin. The term eczema is broadly applied to a range of persistent or recurring skin rashes. Long standing eczema is often dry. It is a form of dermatitis where inflammation of epidermis occurs. The exact cause of eczema is not known. Although it is activated by the immune system and is related to allergic reactions but it is not the same as other allergic reactions.

Eczema can be a difficult and frustrating condition. The psychological challenge faced by the patients is insurmountable. The desire to scratch the itchy rash just makes the condition worse.

What are the symptoms of Eczema?

  • Kandu (Itching)
  • Vedana (pain)
  • Pidika (small postules)
  • Anga patina (cracking of skin)
  • Utsedha (swelling/inflammation)
  • Paka (supparation)
  • Kleda (fluid filled secretion)
  • Ati swedana (hyper-sweating)

Eczema according to Ayurveda:

In Ayurveda, though it is Kshudra Kushtha and can be correlated with Vicharchika. It is known as Rakta Pradoshaja having involvement of all the three doshas with the dominance of Pitta dosha.

What is the Ayurvedic treatment of Eczema?

In maximum cases, patients of eczema who do not get relief from Allopathic treatment approach to Ayurvedic treatment. But with the time, the disease has already attained the chronic state. Another issue with the skin disorders is their frequent recurrence.

The main aim of Ayurvedic treatment of eczema is to purify the body by removing the dosha (toxins) and boost the immune system thus enabling the patient to live a healthy and peaceful life.

In the context of the treatment of eczema, Acharaya Charak has mentioned that in all the chronic diseases, Rasayana drugs should be prescribed. But to get the maximum benefits of Rasayana treatment, it is essential to perform shodhana at least cleaning of bowel prior to the administration of Rasayana.

Oral administration of certain medications that augment and assist the process of digestion, thus assists the process of digestion are also prescribed. These drugs have aampachana and deepan properties that not only improve the digestive capacity of an individual but also enhance the metabolic activity of the cells.

The sarvang abhyanga (whole body massage) with medicated oil is also prescribed which helps to bring the doshas (toxins) from all over the body to the excretory channels.

Some herbs useful in Eczema are:

Herbs that are bitter in taste, balance Pitta dosha and have blood purifying, detoxifying and skin soothing properties are recommended. These are:

  1. Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia): Manjistha is considered as one of the best purifying herbs in Ayurveda. For skin issues, this herb can be used both internally and externally.
  • It is known for cleansing the blood and liver and balances Pitta dosha.
  • Manjistha soothes the inflamed and itchy skin conditions and balances pigmentation.
  • Thus, manjistha is extremely useful in improving skin health.
  1. Nimba (Azadirachta indica): Neem is a Tikta (bitter) which removes toxins, cleanses the blood and liver.
  • It is a bitter and cooling herb which has an affinity for the lymph, blood and skin as well.
  • The anti-inflammatory properties of neem leaves help in relieving uncomfortable and painful symptoms of eczema.
  1. Khadira (Acacia catechu): Khadira is a wonderful herb for the skin conditions like eczema.
  • It flushes the toxins by boosting digestion and elimination of wastes. It further stops production of toxins and their accumulation in the intestines.
  • It directly works on the blood and detoxifies it. Khadira also digests ama present in the blood.
  • Therefore, it helps in soothing the symptoms of eczema such as itching, oozing, crust formation, patchy and scaly skin.
  1. Sariva (Hemidesmus indicus): Sariva herb is commonly known as Anantmool.
  • Sariva is a potent blood purifier. It cleans the blood, stops itching and reduces suppuration. Therefore, it is widely used in skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, urticaria etc. caused due to heat and aggravated Pitta dosha.
  • It is also known for relieving stress by inducing an overwhelming sensation of relaxation.
  1. Kutaja (Holarrhena antidysentrica): Kutaj tree is well-known for its bark. The bark is the most effective Ayurvedic treatment for skin problems such as eczema, psoriasis, skin blemishes, rashes etc.
  • It is one of the powerful Ayurvedic ingredients that is helpful to manage eczema and psoriasis.
  • The oil of kutaja mixed with coconut oil has antiseptic and astringent properties.
  1. Daruharidra (Berberis aristata): Daruharidra is an excellent Ayurvedic herb useful in pitta aggravated conditions.
  • It is used as an ingredient in many Ayurvedic herbal formulations for skin disorders.
  • Due to its anti-inflammatory property, it controls itching associated with eczema.
  • It also helps in alleviating liver disorders by maintaining the proper secretion of liver enzymes.
  • The plant is bitter in taste, rough in quality and hot in potency.
  1. Chakramarda (Cassia tora): Chakramarda is a medicinal plant having katu (pungent) taste, katu vipak (undergoes pungent taste conversion after digestion).
  • It balances Pitta and Kapha doshas and congenial for skin disorders.
  • It is quite useful in providing relief in kandu (itching and pruritis) associated with eczema.
  • The seeds of this plant are used externally in eczema, allergic dermatitis, psoriasis, inflamed pile mass, snake bite, insect bite etc.
  • The oil of chakramarda plant is also useful in skin disorders.

 Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is used as a base in Ayurveda to prepare oils that help in managing skin disorders.

  • It acts as a natural moisturizer that helps to protect the skin and prevents drying of skin.
  • It is also useful in itching and inflammation of the skin.

 Pathya and Apathya (Do’s and Don’ts):

  • Take light food such as khichadi, moong dal, patola, bitter gourd etc.
  • Avoid milk and milk products.
  • Avoid taking non-vegetarian food, pickles, chillies, junk and processed foods.
  • Avoid sleeping during day time.
  • Use of harsh soaps and chemicals should be avoided.
  • For stress, practice pranayama and Meditation.

Thus, Ayurvedic line of treatment aims to give a happy life to the patient of eczema by improving the functioning of immune system, removing toxins etc. Ayurvedic supplements are safe and natural and gentle on the skin as well.

Symptoms and Treatments of Eczema According to Ayurveda

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition characterized by itchy, inflamed, and sometimes cracked skin. It typically affects areas such as the face, hands, arms, legs, and scalp. Ayurveda views eczema as a manifestation of an imbalance in the doshas, primarily Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, often caused by an accumulation of Ama (toxins) in the body, along with imbalanced digestion, emotional stress, and environmental factors.

Symptoms of Eczema

The symptoms of eczema can vary in intensity and may include:

  1. Itching: The most common symptom is itchiness, which can be severe and leads to scratching.

  2. Redness and Inflammation: Affected skin areas may appear red, inflamed, or swollen.

  3. Dry, Scaly Skin: The skin often becomes dry, rough, and flaky, sometimes with visible scales.

  4. Cracked and Bleeding Skin: In severe cases, the skin may crack and bleed, leading to infection.

  5. Blisters: In some cases, eczema may cause blisters filled with fluid that can break and weep.

  6. Thickened Skin: Chronic eczema may lead to thickened, leathery skin due to prolonged scratching or irritation.

  7. Discoloration: After healing, the skin may show hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, with areas becoming darker or lighter than the surrounding skin.

Ayurvedic Understanding of Eczema

In Ayurveda, eczema is considered an external manifestation of internal imbalances in the doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) and the presence of Ama (toxins) in the body. The dosha involved and the root cause can vary from individual to individual.

  • Vata Imbalance: Vata governs the skin’s moisture and elasticity, and its imbalance leads to dryness, roughness, and itchiness of the skin. Vata-driven eczema is characterized by itching, cracked skin, and dryness.

  • Pitta Imbalance: Pitta governs the skin’s heat, and its imbalance often leads to inflammation, redness, and burning sensations in eczema. Pitta-type eczema may also cause swelling, blisters, and fluid-filled lesions.

  • Kapha Imbalance: Kapha governs the body’s moisture and fluid balance. When Kapha is aggravated, it can lead to excessive mucus, scaling, and greasy skin. Kapha-type eczema tends to be more chronic and may result in thickened, scaly patches.

Ama (toxins) produced due to poor digestion can accumulate in the skin tissues, further aggravating eczema. An improper diet, stress, and exposure to toxins in the environment can exacerbate this condition.

Ayurvedic Treatments for Eczema

Ayurvedic treatment for eczema focuses on balancing the doshas, improving digestion, reducing inflammation, and detoxifying the body. The goal is to treat eczema holistically by addressing both internal imbalances and external symptoms.

1. Dietary Modifications

In Ayurveda, food plays a significant role in both the root causes and treatment of eczema. A pitta-pacifying and kapha-reducing diet is often recommended.

  • Increase:

    • Cooling foods like cucumbers, coconut, melon, mint, and leafy greens to soothe inflammation and reduce heat.

    • Hydrating foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables, and liquid-rich foods (soups, broths) to combat dryness and keep the skin hydrated.

    • Anti-inflammatory spices like turmeric, ginger, coriander, and fennel to reduce inflammation and detoxify the body.

  • Avoid:

    • Spicy, oily, and greasy foods that can aggravate Pitta and lead to further skin irritation.

    • Processed foods, sugars, and refined carbohydrates, which can increase Ama and exacerbate inflammation.

    • Dairy products, particularly if you have a Kapha imbalance, as they can increase mucus and cause sluggish digestion.

    • Excessive caffeine and alcohol, as they can dehydrate the skin and disrupt digestion.

2. Herbal Remedies for Eczema

Certain herbs have specific therapeutic benefits in treating eczema by reducing inflammation, soothing the skin, and balancing the doshas.

  • Neem (Azadirachta indica): Neem has antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is widely used in Ayurveda for treating skin disorders like eczema. Neem can be applied topically as a paste or used in baths to reduce itching and inflammation.

  • Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Turmeric has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce the redness, swelling, and itching associated with eczema. You can use it as a paste on the skin or consume it internally in the form of turmeric milk or supplements.

  • Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is a cooling herb that soothes irritated and inflamed skin. It helps hydrate the skin and reduce the symptoms of eczema, such as itching and redness. Applying fresh aloe vera gel to affected areas provides instant relief.

  • Gotu Kola (Centella Asiatica): Gotu Kola is known for its ability to improve wound healing, reduce scarring, and strengthen the skin. It can be used as a topical ointment or taken internally to treat eczema.

  • Chandan (Sandalwood): Sandalwood has a cooling effect on the skin and helps reduce the heat and inflammation caused by eczema. It can be applied topically as a paste or used in oils.

  • Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri): Brahmi is known for its stress-reducing properties. Since stress is a common trigger for eczema flare-ups, Brahmi can help calm the nervous system and reduce inflammation.

3. External Treatments

  • Oil Massage (Abhyanga): Regular oil massage with Sesame oil, Coconut oil, or Brahmi oil can help to nourish dry skin and reduce the itching and irritation associated with eczema. These oils have anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, and cooling properties.

  • Herbal Baths: Soaking in an herbal bath made from Neem leaves, Turmeric, Sandalwood powder, or Lavender can provide relief from itching and inflammation. This helps soothe the skin and reduce Ama and Kapha imbalances.

  • Ghee: Pure ghee (clarified butter) is considered nourishing for the skin in Ayurveda. Applying warm ghee to dry or cracked skin can help moisturize and promote healing. Ghee also helps balance Vata and Pitta doshas, making it ideal for eczema treatment.

  • Aloe Vera and Turmeric Paste: Make a paste of fresh aloe vera gel and turmeric powder and apply it to the affected areas to reduce inflammation, soothe itching, and accelerate healing.

4. Internal Detoxification

Ayurveda places a strong emphasis on detoxifying the body to eliminate the root causes of skin conditions like eczema. This is typically achieved through:

  • Panchakarma: Ayurvedic detoxification therapy, which includes techniques such as oil massage, steam therapy, and cleansing enemas, can help eliminate Ama (toxins) from the body and balance the doshas.

  • Triphala: A combination of Amla, Haritaki, and Bibhitaki, Triphala is a powerful detoxifier and digestive tonic. It helps cleanse the body of toxins, improve digestion, and prevent the buildup of Ama, which can contribute to eczema flare-ups.

  • Cleansing Herbal Formulas: Formulas like Kanchanar Guggulu and Triphala Guggulu help reduce Kapha and Pitta imbalances, detoxify the body, and prevent future flare-ups.

5. Stress Management and Lifestyle Modifications

Since stress is a major trigger for eczema, Ayurveda emphasizes stress management practices such as:

  • Yoga: Gentle yoga poses like Supta Baddha Konasana, Viparita Karani, and Uttanasana help reduce stress and improve circulation, supporting the healing process for eczema.

  • Meditation: Daily meditation practices, such as Mindfulness or Breathing exercises (Pranayama), can help reduce stress and emotional triggers that contribute to eczema flare-ups.

  • Adequate Sleep: Ayurveda stresses the importance of a regular sleep routine. Lack of sleep can exacerbate inflammation and weaken the immune system, making eczema worse.

  • Hydration: Keeping the body hydrated by

Eczema, also known as Atopic Dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition characterized by inflammation, itching, and redness. It is commonly linked to immune system dysfunction, environmental factors, and genetic predisposition. In Ayurveda, eczema is seen as a manifestation of an imbalance in the doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), specifically Vata and Pitta, which can affect the skin and cause inflammation, dryness, and itching.

Causes of Eczema According to Ayurveda:

  1. Vata Imbalance (Dryness and Pruritus):

    • Vata dosha governs the skin’s texture and moisture levels. When Vata becomes imbalanced, it leads to dry, rough, and flaky skin, which are common features of eczema. Vata imbalance can be caused by dry air, harsh weather, stress, and insomnia, all of which can aggravate skin dryness and itching.

  2. Pitta Imbalance (Inflammation and Redness):

    • Pitta dosha is responsible for heat, inflammation, and digestion. When Pitta is aggravated, it leads to inflammatory reactions in the body, which can cause redness, swelling, and heat in the skin. This is commonly observed in the inflammatory type of eczema.

  3. Kapha Imbalance (Mucus and Fluid Retention):

    • Kapha dosha governs the body’s moisture and structure. When Kapha becomes imbalanced, it can cause fluid retention and mucus accumulation in the skin, leading to weeping eczema (eczema with fluid-filled blisters) or thick, sticky patches of skin.

  4. Ama (Toxins):

    • Ama, the undigested toxins resulting from weak digestive fire (Agni), can accumulate in the body and clog the channels (srotas). These toxins can manifest as skin issues, including eczema. Ama can weaken the immune system, making the body more prone to allergic reactions and skin inflammation.

  5. Poor Digestion and Weak Agni:

    • According to Ayurveda, the state of digestion (Agni) plays a critical role in overall health. Weak or imbalanced Agni can lead to toxins building up in the system, which eventually manifests on the skin as eczema. Indigestion, acidity, or food allergies may also trigger eczema flare-ups.

  6. Allergic Reactions and Environmental Factors:

    • Allergens, dust, pollution, harsh chemicals, and even emotional stress can aggravate the doshas and trigger eczema flare-ups. Food allergens like dairy, gluten, and certain spices can also contribute to eczema outbreaks.

  7. Genetics:

    • A family history of eczema, allergies, or asthma can increase the likelihood of developing eczema. Genetic predisposition plays a significant role in the body’s immune response and its vulnerability to inflammatory skin conditions.

  8. Stress and Emotional Factors:

    • Mental stress and emotional imbalance can exacerbate eczema. Vata and Pitta imbalances are often aggravated by psychological stress, leading to flare-ups of skin conditions like eczema.

  9. Hormonal Changes:

    • Hormonal fluctuations, such as those occurring during pregnancy, menstruation, or puberty, can trigger or worsen eczema due to their influence on the immune system and skin health.

Symptoms of Eczema According to Ayurveda:

  • Dry, Flaky Skin: A common symptom of eczema, especially in Vata imbalance, where the skin becomes dry and cracked.

  • Itching (Pruritus): Intense itching, often worse at night, is common in eczema. This can be a result of Vata aggravation.

  • Redness and Inflammation: Swollen, red, and inflamed patches of skin, particularly in the Pitta-type eczema.

  • Rashes and Blisters: The appearance of rashes, blisters, or fluid-filled lesions can occur in Kapha-dominated eczema.

  • Thickened Skin: Chronic eczema can cause the skin to become thickened, especially with Kapha imbalance, as the body retains fluids.

  • Crusting and Oozing: In some cases, eczema can become weeping, with the skin leaking fluid or becoming crusty as it heals.

  • Pain or Burning Sensation: In more severe cases, eczema can cause a burning or painful feeling on the affected skin.

  • Flare-ups: The skin condition may go through periods of remission and flare-ups, often triggered by environmental changes, stress, or exposure to irritants.

Ayurvedic Treatments for Eczema:

Ayurvedic treatment for eczema involves balancing the doshas, improving digestion, cleansing the body of toxins (Ama), and reducing stress. The goal is to restore harmony in the body, which can help heal the skin from within.

1. Herbal Remedies for Eczema:

  • Neem (Azadirachta indica):

    • Properties: Antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, detoxifying.

    • Benefits: Neem is one of the best herbs for treating skin diseases in Ayurveda. It helps in detoxifying the body, reducing Pitta and Kapha, and calming inflammation. Neem can be applied as a paste to affected areas or taken internally in tablet form.

  • Turmeric (Curcuma longa):

    • Properties: Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant.

    • Benefits: Turmeric helps reduce inflammation and calm the skin. Its active compound, curcumin, is known for its ability to reduce redness and itching. It can be used both topically and internally to reduce eczema flare-ups.

  • Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis):

    • Properties: Cooling, soothing, anti-inflammatory.

    • Benefits: Aloe vera gel is widely used to soothe irritated, inflamed, and itchy skin. It provides cooling relief, reduces redness, and accelerates the healing process for eczema-prone skin.

  • Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia):

    • Properties: Immune-boosting, detoxifying, anti-inflammatory.

    • Benefits: Guduchi is known for its ability to boost immunity and cleanse the blood. It helps reduce inflammation and improve overall skin health. It is particularly useful in chronic eczema.

  • Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia):

    • Properties: Blood purifier, detoxifying, anti-inflammatory.

    • Benefits: Manjistha is a well-known blood purifier in Ayurveda. It helps clear toxins from the body and reduces the inflammation and redness that is common in eczema.

  • Chirata (Swertia chirata):

    • Properties: Bitter, detoxifying, cooling.

    • Benefits: Chirata helps detoxify the liver and blood, reducing heat in the body. It is especially useful in cases of Pitta-type eczema.

  • Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera):

    • Properties: Adaptogen, rejuvenating, balancing.

    • Benefits: Ashwagandha helps reduce stress, which is often a trigger for eczema flare-ups. It also strengthens the immune system and supports overall vitality, aiding in eczema healing.

2. Ayurvedic Treatments and Therapies:

  • Panchakarma (Detoxification Therapy):

    • Panchakarma is a set of Ayurvedic detoxification therapies that include treatments such as Virechana (purgation), Basti (enema), and Nasya (nasal therapy) to cleanse the body of toxins (Ama). These therapies help improve digestion, reduce inflammation, and restore balance to the doshas.

  • Abhyanga (Oil Massage):

    • Abhyanga, a full-body oil massage with herbal oils, can help balance Vata and Pitta, nourish the skin, and calm inflammation. Oils like Sesame oil, Coconut oil, or Brahmi oil are often used for their soothing and cooling properties.

  • Shirodhara (Oil Therapy for Stress Relief):

    • Shirodhara involves the continuous pouring of warm herbal oil over the forehead, which helps in calming the nervous system, reducing stress, and promoting overall healing.

  • Ubtan (Herbal Paste):

    • Ubtan, a paste made from herbs like turmeric, chickpea flour, and rose water, can be applied topically to soothe and nourish the skin. It helps reduce inflammation, dryness, and itching in eczema.

3. Dietary Recommendations:

  • Anti-inflammatory Foods:

    • A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods such as ginger, turmeric, leafy greens, and omega-3 fatty acids (from flaxseeds, walnuts, and fish) can help reduce eczema flare-ups.

  • Avoid Trigger Foods:

    • Common food triggers for eczema include dairy, gluten, processed foods, and spicy foods. It’s important to identify and eliminate any food allergens that may worsen symptoms.

  • Increase Hydration:

    • Drinking plenty of water and herbal teas can help keep the skin hydrated, which is especially important for those with Vata imbalances who tend to have dry skin.

  • Eat Cooling Foods:

    • For those with Pitta-type eczema, eating cooling foods like cucumber, melons, coconut, and mint can help reduce heat in the body and calm skin inflammation.

4. Lifestyle Recommendations:

  • Reduce Stress:

    • Since stress is a major trigger for eczema, practicing relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can be highly beneficial.

  • Proper Sleep:

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