Lichen Planus is a skin disease that appears as itchy, swollen bumps on the skin. These bumps might be on the skin, mouth, nails, scalp, or the genitals. The bumps are purplish, sometimes shiny and have flat tops. People may also develop white patches or sores inside their mouth or on their gums.
The cause for Lichen Planus is unknown, but it is considered an immune system mediated inflammatory response. Basically, the immune cells attack the skin or mucous membranes mistakenly. Lichen Planus is quite uncomfortable but it is not contagious and does not be spread by contact.
Lichen Planus affects a small minority of people but is most common in adults aged 30 to 60 years. Women are also slightly more prone to develop it compared to men. The treatment for this condition usually involves managing the symptoms since there is currently no cure. The management of Lichen Planus generally involves topical ointments, oral medications and sometimes light therapy. For those seeking natural remedies, Ayurvedic treatments can provide effective alternative options to manage inflammation and skin health.
Lichen Planus is a skin condition that may appear and go away as unexpectedly as it came. Knowing what causes this condition may help control and prevent outbreaks.
The common causes and triggers of Lichen Planus are:
Immune System Response: The most accepted theory is that Lichen Planus is an immune system response in which immune cells attack skin or mucous membrane cells mistakenly.
Genetic Factors: Some individuals may have genetic predispositions to Lichen Planus development.
Viral Infections: It can be linked to Hepatitis C, a virus infection of the liver. People with this condition are at increased risk for Lichen Planus.
Medications: Certain drugs, including some used for heart disease, high blood pressure and arthritis can induce Lichen Planus. They include: Nonsteroidal anti inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antimalarial drugs, ACE inhibitors (drugs to treat high blood pressure), etc.
Chemicals: Exposure to some chemicals used to develop colour film or manufacture gold, antibiotics and arsenic may cause a Lichen Planus outbreak.
Stress: Emotional stress is not a direct cause of Lichen Planus but can worsen the symptoms and provoke flare-ups.
Allergic Reactions: Some Lichen Planus cases may be associated with allergic reactions to materials like dental amalgam fillings or some metals and chemicals.
Lichen Planus may affect different parts of the body with varying signs and symptoms. Recognising these signs early may help with management and timely treatment.
The main symptoms of Lichen Planus are listed below:
The distinctive signs are flat-topped, shiny bumps that are purplish in colour. They may occur on the inner wrists, legs, back, or genitals.
The lesions are usually very itchy when they first appear.
Lichen Planus inside the mouth may cause painful white, lacy patches or sores. This may affect the gums, tongue, inner cheeks and lips.
More serious cases might develop distressing blisters or ulcers, particularly near the mouth or on the genitals, which might make eating, drinking and even speaking difficult.
On the scalp, Lichen Planus can cause hair loss and scarring (Lichen Planopilaris).
Nails may become thin, split, lose colour, or form ridges and grooves from Lichen Planus. In more serious cases, complete nail loss may also occur.
Some Lichen Planus patients develop blistering on their skin or mucous membranes that pop and become sore.
Jiva Ayurveda offers holistic Ayurvedic treatment of Lichen Planus using evidence-based Ayurveda. 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.
Personalised Ayurvedic Remedies: Custom made herbal mixtures to balance the body’s energies and stabilise your mood.
Yoga, Meditation and Mindfulness Practices: These calming activities promote mental wellness and general well-being.
Ayurvedic Treatments: Procedures like Panchakarma and various massages that cleanse the body and help with emotional balance.
Diet and Lifestyle Changes: Expert recommendations on changing your eating habits and lifestyle for better health.
Ayurveda provides herbal medicines to control and treat Lichen Planus, balancing the energies and clearing toxins. They're based on herbs which have healing qualities and could be used to reduce inflammation, improve immunity and restore skin damage.
The following are some herbs frequently used during Ayurvedic treatment for Lichen Planus:
Neem (Azadirachta Indica): Neem is a detoxifier which cleanses the blood and also decreases inflammatory conditions. It is applied topically and orally to skin lesions caused by Lichen Planus.
Kutki (Picrorhiza Kurroa): This is a liver-cleansing herb that detoxifies the body and helps manage autoimmune conditions such as Lichen Planus.
Giloy (Tinospora Cordifolia): Often called the 'amrita' or nectar of gods, Giloy boosts the immune system and has anti-inflammatory effects against itchy and inflamed skin.
Turmeric (Curcuma Longa): Turmeric consists of curcumin, an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compound. It could be taken orally or even used like a paste over the affected areas to reduce redness and swelling.
Aloe Vera: Aloe Vera gel is a popular skin tonic which can be used topically to soothe irritation and heal cuts.
Triphala: Triphala is a classic Ayurvedic formula based on three fruits. It supports immunity and skin health and helps manage Lichen Planus.
Manjistha (Rubia Cordifolia): Manjistha is used for healing the skin and as a blood purifier for Lichen Planus skin disorders.
Lichen Planus usually affects adults aged 30 to 60 years, and women slightly more than men.
Though stress does not directly cause Lichen Planus but it can worsen symptoms and provoke flare-ups.
Lichen Planus may be chronic and recurrent. Some people have just one episode while others have several flare-ups.
A Lichen Planus outbreak may last from weeks to several years. Most lesions become gradually inactive and may cause dark spots on the skin.
No, diet does not cause Lichen Planus, but some foods promote inflammation. Symptoms may be controlled by avoiding spicy and acidic foods.
Lichen Planus may accompany hepatitis C and other liver diseases and should be managed simultaneously.
There's no cure for Lichen Planus, but treatments may help manage symptoms and prevent flare-ups.
Lichen Planus is diagnosed primarily by physical examination of the skin lesions and if necessary, by biopsy.
Moisturising the skin, avoiding scratching and applying cool compresses may relieve itching and discomfort.
Yes, severe itching and visible lesions can inhibit emotional and social interactions, but managing symptoms can improve the quality of life.
Moderate sunlight exposure may help some skin lesions but may worsen others. We suggest you discuss your case with a certified ayurveda doctor.
