Psoriasis is a skin disorder which causes red, itchy patches on the body, usually with silvery scales. These patches can be located on the elbows, knees, scalp and lower back but can appear anywhere on the entire body. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder, characterised by an immune system which mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, causing them to build up rapidly on the surface of the skin.
Psoriasis is classified as a kushtha health condition in Ayurveda. It is a chronic, hard-to-treat illness that is termed "krucchasadhya” (intractable) and “asadhya” (incurable). According to Ayurvedic principles, Psoriasis is caused by an imbalance in two energy areas ("doshas"): Vata & Kapha. Vata governs bodily functions and movement, and Kapha governs growth and stability. The disturbance of these doshas causes accumulation of toxins in the body resulting in Psoriasis of the skin.
Plaque Psoriasis: The most common form of Psoriasis, which is characterised by dry, raised, red skin lesion (plaques) covered with silvery scales. Approximately 80% to 90% of psoriatic sufferers are of this kind.
Nail Psoriasis: This type affects toenails and fingernails and causes pitting, abnormal growth of nails and discolouration.
Guttate Psoriasis: It appears as small, water-drop-shaped, scaling lesions on the trunk, arms, legs and scalp.
Inverse Psoriasis: Forms red, shiny lesions in skin folds, like under the breasts or in the pelvic area.
Pustular Psoriasis: Characterised by white pustules (blisters of noninfectious pus) surrounded by red skin.
Erythrodermic Psoriasis: Erythrodermic Psoriasis is the least common type, affecting large areas of the body at once, and can be painful and itchy.
There is no cure for Psoriasis but understanding these types can help in managing the condition more effectively. Ayurvedic treatment focuses on rebalancing the doshas and cleansing the body to alleviate Psoriasis symptoms.
Psoriasis has no recognised cause. However, it involves the immune system that mistakenly speeds up the growth cycle of skin cells. Various triggers may induce this autoimmune response and contribute to the development or worsening of Psoriasis symptoms.
Genetic Factors: A family history of Psoriasis raises your chance of developing the condition. Specific genes related to the immune system can decide who gets Psoriasis.
Immune System Response: Psoriasis is mainly an autoimmune condition. Mistakenly, the immune system attacks healthy skin cells, accelerating skin cell production and generating the rapid buildup that causes scaly patches.
Environmental Triggers: Some environmental factors may cause or worsen Psoriasis flare-ups. They include:
Weather Changes: Cold, dry weather can cause Psoriasis symptoms.
Injuries to the Skin: Physical trauma to the skin (cuts, bug bites, scrapes, or serious sunburns) could cause psoriatic skin lesions at the injury site.
Infections: Throat infections (especially streptococcal infections) can cause guttate Psoriasis, characterised by tiny, droplet-shaped lesions.
Stress: High stress levels may trigger flare-ups or worsen existing Psoriasis. Stress affects the immune system and worsens Psoriasis symptoms.
Some Medications: Certain medications can lead to Psoriasis flare ups or interfere with treatment. They include lithium (for bipolar disorder), antimalarial drugs, high blood pressure meds and some heart drugs.
Lifestyle Factors: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can raise the risk and severity of Psoriasis symptoms.
Psoriasis symptoms can vary widely among people depending on the type of Psoriasis. These symptoms can range from mild to moderate and it typically cycles between flare-ups and periods of remission. Recognising the signs early may help with timely treatment of the condition.
These are usually covered with thick, silvery scales. The patches may be small or large and are found mainly on the scalp, elbows, knees and lower back.
Skin may bleed when it becomes too dry. This cracking can be painful and sometimes causes an infection, if not treated.
Affected areas may be itchy or sore during flare-ups. Many people also report a burning sensation.
Fingernails and toenails may become thick, pitted or ridged with Psoriasis and nails may separate from the nail bed.
With Psoriatic Arthritis, joints may become swollen, painful and stiff, making movement difficult.
Commonly seen in children, these small scaling spots somewhat differ from the adult scales.
Among the most characteristic signs of plaque Psoriasis are thick, tough areas of skin which can crack and bleed.
Jiva Ayurveda offers holistic Psoriasis treatment in Ayurveda using evidence-based approaches. The treatment plans are customised to target the very root causes of the disease, and instead of just treating symptoms, they focus on holistic healing, balance and stability in totality.
HACCP certified Ayurvedic medicines: These are scientific blends that help in rebalancing your body and emotional health.
Yoga, Meditation & Mindfulness: These calming practices support mental health and complete wellness.
Ayurvedic Treatments: Therapies like Panchakarma and various massage therapies cleanse the body and maintain emotional health.
Diet & Lifestyle Recommendations: Expert advice on changing your eating and lifestyle choices for improved health outcomes.
Ayurveda offers natural cures for managing the red, itchy, scaly areas of skin associated with Psoriasis. These traditional treatments focus on balancing the body’s energies and purifying the blood to relieve symptoms.
Neem (Azadirachta Indica): Neem possesses anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties and could alleviate itchiness, pimples and promote skin healing. It is applied topically or taken internally to detoxify the blood.
Turmeric (Curcuma Longa): The curcumin contained in turmeric is known to reduce skin inflammation and irritation. It is useful for topical and oral use and also supports liver detoxification and digestion.
Aloe Vera: This herb is believed to decrease skin inflammation and itching when applied directly to the skin. Aloe vera gel soothes Psoriatic patches.
Guggul: Guggul is renowned for its blood-purifying properties. It supports skin health and reduces inflammation in Psoriasis patients.
Triphala: A staple in Ayurvedic medicine, Triphala is a mix of 3 fruits which helps to cleanse the body and manage Psoriasis symptoms.
Khadira (Acacia Catechu): Khadira is known to purify the blood, reduce Ama (toxic residue in the body) and balance the Kapha dosha which helps with skin disorders like Psoriasis.
Manjistha (Rubia Cordifolia): Manjistha is also a blood purifier that can help balance Pitta and Kapha doshas and promotes better skin health.
Black Nightshade: Particularly useful for Psoriasis treatment, it may be prepared in several different forms.
Boswellia (Frankincense): This herb has anti-inflammatory properties that can help manage Psoriasis symptoms.
Garlic: Garlic has immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory qualities, which could be used to manage Psoriasis symptoms.
Jasmine Flower Paste: Applied topically, jasmine flower paste can soothe psoriatic patches and relieve discomfort.
Stress, certain medications, skin injuries, cold weather and infections could trigger Psoriasis flare-ups.
Yes, untreated Psoriasis can impact your physical as well as emotional health, causing stress, discomfort and self-esteem issues.
Ayurveda suggests a diet full of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains and restricting processed foods, red meat and dairy to manage the symptoms.
The physical examination of the skin and assessment of doshic imbalances based on the individual and family health history comprise the foundation of Psoriasis diagnosis in Ayurveda.
Yes, a change in lifestyle including stress reduction, proper and balanced diet and regular exercise can help manage Psoriasis symptoms.
Seborrheic dermatitis appears as scaly, itchy, red skin on oily areas like the scalp or ears whereas Psoriasis has thicker, much more defined plaques and scales on broader body areas.
Stress can impact the immune system, worsening Psoriasis symptoms and also cause more flare-ups.
Herbal remedies in Ayurveda can help manage symptoms and balance the imbalance of Vata and Kapha doshas in Psoriasis.
Regular detoxification, eating right and stress management can avoid flare-ups and ease the symptoms of Psoriasis.
Detoxification helps eliminate toxins from the body which lead to inflammation and therefore helps manage Psoriasis symptoms.
Yes, Psoriasis is related to increased risks of psoriatic arthritis, heart problems and diabetes.
No, Psoriasis isn't contagious. i.e., it can't be spread through direct contact or exchange of personal items.
