Psoriasis is regarded as a chronic condition in modern medicine, which means that there is no medical cure for it. The inflammatory autoimmune skin condition is therefore treated with medications and therapies that are aimed at symptom relief, including topical applications, steroidal injections, ultraviolet light treatments, and drugs like corticosteroids, cyclosporine, and methotrexate. However, these treatments can be expensive and only address the symptoms. This is why many patients turn to natural treatments and home remedies to manage the condition. With Ayurveda’s wealth of information on holistic living and herbal medicine, it is no surprise that most naturopaths first look for a psoriasis cure in Ayurveda.
Psoriasis Ayurveda Insights
Psoriasis treatment in Ayurveda is based on a sound understanding of the condition and its pathogenesis, which is based on thousands of years of observation and research. After all, the disease was not unknown in ancient India and is referred to as Kiṭibha in the classical texts like the Charaka Samhita.
According to information from such sources, psoriasis is said to develop as a result of the vitiation of the Doshas and Rakta Dosha. Buildup of ama or toxicity and the consumption of incompatible foods (like dairy with fish) are said to result in imbalances in the body’s natural equilibrium. Over-consumption of certain foods like fish, yogurt, and salty foods, heavy consumption of alcohol, and the use of tobacco are all said to act as triggers and contributing factors in psoriasis. Recognizing the mind-body connection, these early Ayurvedic sources also point out the impact of stress and anxiety on the condition.
Ayurveda and Psoriasis Treatment
When considering psoriasis and Ayurvedic treatment, patients need to adopt the recommendations strictly beginning with a psoriasis Ayurvedic treatment diet. This is because balanced nutrition is regarded as critical for health. More importantly, an Ayurvedic diet can also be used to restore the balance of Doshas and pacify vitiated Doshas, but this requires personalized diet plans from an Ayurvedic physician. Panchakarma treatment for psoriasis, along with the adoption of a yoga routine, is also regarded as essential for the management and resolution of psoriasis. This Ayurvedic therapy must be administered in an Ayurvedic clinic and involves five purification and detoxification procedures including Vamana, Virechana, Basti, Nasya, and Rakta Moksha. Aside from these Ayurvedic psoriasis treatments that require the guidance of a skilled physician, you can also turn to herbal home treatments and Ayurvedic medicine for psoriasis.
Ayurvedic Medicine for Psoriasis
Ayurvedic treatment for the condition also includes the use of oral Ayurvedic medicine for psoriasis, as well as topical applications like Ayurvedic cream for psoriasis. The efficacy of neem extract for psoriasis was also supported by a study involving 50 patients who responded well to neem treatment (2). The benefits of neem are thought to be a result of active compounds such as nimbidin.
Some oral medications used in the Ayurvedic treatment of psoriasis are also guggul-based formulations as the herb is known to be effective against a wide range of chronic conditions, including psoriasis (3). The herb exhibits hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidant effects, all of which can help in the management of psoriasis.
Rasayana herbs like Ashwagandha, Brahmi, Shankapushpi and Jatamansi may also be included as ingredients in psoriasis medicines to promote cell regeneration and healing. Moreover, herbs like Ashwagandha and Brahmi have proven adaptogenic properties and can therefore help to lower stress levels, which can otherwise exacerbate psoriasis
Psoriasis ayurvedic tablets in the Ayurvedic treatment of scalp psoriasis are helpful, but for quick symptom relief, topical treatments are also needed, whether symptoms appear on the scalp or skin.
Ayurvedic Topical Treatments for Psoriasis
Ayurvedic ointment for psoriasis, herbal medicated oils, and balms also play an important role in the management of psoriasis. Ayurvedic herbs that are commonly used in Ayurvedic ointments and creams for psoriasis include Kirattikta, Svetakutaja, Guggul, Neem, Ashwagandha and turmeric, among other herbs. Svetakutaja, which is also available as wrightia tinctoria oil, is regarded as one of the best Ayurvedic oils for psoriasis. The use of Svetakutaja as a treatment for psoriasis is also supported by research. Other herbs like Brahmi and coconut oil may also be used directly or in polyherbal Ayurvedic oils. Coconut oil is popular as a topical treatment because of proven anti-inflammatory and skin protective effects that can help in the management of psoriasis
Keep in mind that when dealing with skin conditions like psoriasis, it is important to identify and avoid exposure to triggers. This means avoiding the use of chemical-based cosmetics in favour of natural products like Ayurvedic soap for psoriasis. It is also advisable to take up meditation and other stress-reduction techniques as stress are known to trigger psoriasis. The successful treatment of psoriasis with Ayurveda requires consistency, discipline, and patience, but it’s well worth the effort.
This article is reviewed by Dr. Ashwini Konnur
