A unique protocol of Ayurveda in treating Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic skin problem caused by an acceleration of skin cell turnover. Normally, skin cells form in the dermis, or lower level of the skin, and then shed at the upper layer (epidermis). However, if you have psoriasis, cell turnover occurs in less than one week. As a result, dead skin cells accumulate on the epidermis, eventually creating several layers. New skin cells don’t have anywhere to go, so they can start to itch and hurt overtime.

According to the Ayurvedic concept. Psoriasis is believed to occur due to vitiation of all the three doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) in varying degree, but predominantly Vata and Kapha.

The predominance of vatha causes pain, dryness and scaling of skin. Pitha vitiation leads to burning sensation, redness, inflammation etc and that of kapha causes rashes, itching, discharge, thickening of skin etc. From these signs and symptoms, the doshic involvement is analyzed carefully in each patient, which is of utmost importance in the management of the disease.

This condition is neither infectious nor does it affect the general health. It affects both the genders and may start at any age. Psoriasis is quite common, affecting around two per cent of the population, although people with very mild symptoms may not be aware they have it. Psoriasis can begin at any age but usually starts either around the age of 20 or between 50 and 60.

Pathogenesis of Psoriasis according to Ayurveda

Irregular food habits, consumption of foodstuffs that are advised not to be eaten together (incompatible foods like dairy products with fish), excessive intake of yogurt, paneer, black gram, seafood, sour and salted items etc can activate the pathogenesis. The produced toxins accumulate in deep tissues like rasa (nutrient plasma), rakta (blood), mamsa (muscles), and laseeka (lymphatic). These toxins cause contamination of deeper tissues, leading to Psoriasis. Alcohol and tobacco consumption will act as a catalyst here. Ayurveda also emphasizes on the effect of stress in the pathogenesis of Psoriasis. Controlling natural urges, Exposure to severe climatic conditions ,Sleeping during the afternoon, Taking bath in cold water immediately after physical exertion are also causes of vitiation of Doshas which  in turn are triggering factor for psoriasis

Types

Plaque psoriasis is the most common type of psoriasis. The patches are large, and often oval-shaped. Not only do they itch, but they are also quite painful. Plaque-type psoriasis can stay for years without treatment. The scales are caused by a building up of dead skin cells. It may appear on the knees, elbows, scalp, trunk or any other skin surface.

Erythrodermic psoriasis involves the widespread inflammation and exfoliation of the skin over most of the body surface. It may be accompanied by severe itching, swelling and pain. It is often the result of an exacerbation of unstable plaque psoriasis, particularly following the abrupt withdrawal of systemic treatment.

Guttate psoriasis may appear suddenly following a bacterial or viral infection or the administration of drugs like ketoconazole and salicylic acid.  This type develops small pinkish-red patches over large areas of the body. Some of the most common areas include the arms and legs.  

Inverse psoriasis occurs within folds of the skin in the armpits, groin, under an overweight stomach or under the breasts. It appears as smooth, red lesions without scaling and may cause irritation due to rubbing and sweating.

Pustular psoriasis is the rarest form of psoriasis is characterized by blisters filled with pus on the skin. The blisters are not infectious. It may be found on the hands and feet or may be spread all over.

Nail psoriasis: produces a variety of changes in the appearance of finger and toe nails. These changes include discoloring under the nail plate, pitting of the nails, lines going across the nails, thickening of the skin under the nail, and the loosening and crumbling of the nail.

Psoriasis can also cause inflammation of the joints, which is known as Psoriatic Arthritis. 10 to 30% of people with psoriasis have Psoriatic arthritis. Sometimes pulling of one of these small dry white flakes of skin causes a tiny blood spot on the skin. This is medically referred to as a special diagnostic sign in psoriasis called the Auspitz sign. Genital lesions, especially on the head of the penis, are common. Psoriasis in moist areas like the navel or area between the buttocks (intergluteal folds) may look like flat red patches. These atypical appearances may be confused with other skin conditions like fungal infections, yeast infections, skin irritation, or bacterial Staphylococcal infections On the scalp, it may look like severe dandruff with dry flakes and red areas of skin. It may be difficult to tell the difference between scalp psoriasis and seborrhea (dandruff). However, the treatment is often very similar for both conditions.

Ayurvedic Treatment of Psoriasis

Ayurvedic treatment of psoriasis aims to rid the body of accumulated toxins. This is a protocol unique to Ayurveda and should not be undertaken without the supervision of a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner .In treating psoriasis, Ayurveda recommends a comprehensive treatment strategy that involves strengthening your digestion and detoxifying and eliminating toxins. Addressing your diet, and not only how you eat, but also when and what, is important. Herbal formulas support digestion and aid in the detoxifying process.

 Ayurvedic Management of Psoriasis comprises of:

•         Shodhana Chikitsa (Detoxification) through Panchakarma therapies,

•         Shamana Chikitsa through administration of internal medication and external applications

•         Rasayana Chikitsa (immunomodulation) through kayakalpa

•         Very strict Diet regime

•         Lifestyle changes

•         Stress management- Frequent stress can cause flare-ups, which only causes further aggravation on your part. Get plenty of rest, and look for ways to de-stress every day. Breathing exercise used in both yoga and meditation can help improve stress levels and improve your outlook on life.

Takradhara - Pouring of medicated butter Milk on forehead is also very effective in the cases of Psoriasis to manage the stress factor & releasing the positive energy to the body.

“Consumers are inclined to opt for herbal products to treat various skin conditions which are backed by sound scientific solutions for safety and efficacy. This is where PPG has an edge in terms of its credibility as they are widely-prescribed by allopathic and Ayurvedic doctors, said Dr. Pathrose Parathuvayalil, Chief Physician and Managing Director of Parathuvayail Hospital & Orthopaedic Centre. Ayurveda is a unique medicine because it not only considers your condition, but also your individual constitution. For this reason, you are well advised to consult with a certified Ayurvedic practitioner when seeking treatment. An Ayurvedic practitioner will determine the most appropriate diet, herbs and treatment protocols based on your current condition and constitution.”