Psoriasis is more than just a skin condition—it is a sign that the body’s internal balance has been disturbed. It can affect not only physical comfort but also emotional well-being. While its visible symptoms may be on the skin, its impact can run much deeper—affecting self-esteem, daily comfort, and even mental health.
- What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic, non-contagious, autoimmune skin condition characterized by the rapid buildup of skin cells, leading to thick, scaly, inflamed patches. These patches, often covered with silvery-white scales, can cause itching, burning, and discomfort. The condition tends to go through cycles—flaring for weeks or months, then subsiding for a time. It can occur anywhere on the body, but is most common on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back.
- Psoriasis in Ayurveda
According to Ayurveda, Psoriasis symptoms come under one of different types of Kushtha (Skin Disorders). There are two causes behind skin conditions like psoriasis.
One is an imbalance in the body's Doshas, or fundamental functioning energies. Psoriasis symptoms can be brought on by imbalances in two of the Doshas, namely Vata and Kapha. Joint discomfort and skin scaling are caused by Vata. Itching and skin secretions are caused by Kapha. The skin is also impacted by Pitta imbalance, which results in inflammation and redness.
The buildup of toxins in the body is the other cause of this illness. These toxins can be found in the skin and blood, among other parts of the body. This disorder is brought on by these toxins' effect on the body's tissues.
- Ayurvedic approach on Psoriasis Treatment
Instead of only treating the symptoms, Ayurveda aims to identify and remove these obstructions. The body can begin to mend itself by lowering inflammation and promoting skin recovery using gentle techniques like Shodhana (detoxification) and Rasayana (rejuvenation).
Ayurveda provides a method that addresses the body, mind, and skin all at once, even though there isn't a miracle remedy. Although it takes longer and requires more consideration, this method provides long-term relief without hurrying the process.
One of the most potent and beneficial Ayurvedic treatments for a variety of auto immune issues is Panchakarma. It includes a range of treatments to help the body rid itself of pollutants, restore energy balance, and revitalize the body. Panchakarma is very effective and therapeutic for people with severe psoriasis symptoms.
Dietary Management of Psoriasis
- Foods to Include
Freshly cooked warm meals including soft cooked alkaline veggies such as gourd vegetables, carrots, spinach etc; whole grains like brown rice, red rice, millets, barley etc; lentils like moong dal; healthy fats like small amount of ghee, seeds for fibre and omega 3; Low acidic fruits like pomegranate, figs, papaya; Anti-inflammatory additions like turmeric, coriander, cumin, fennel etc; Juices like aloe vera and Buttermilk if you consume dairy.
- Foods to Avoid
Salty/Spicy food items, Sour fruits, Consuming curd at night, Deep fried items, Bakery items, red meat and shellfish, spicy and sour pickles and fermented food, carbonated drinks and alcohol.
Eat at regular intervals based on appetite.
Prefer warm water or herbal teas in place of chilled drinks
Reducing salt intake helps managing flareups
Stay away from processed foods and preservatives.
- Lifestyle Modifications for Psoriasis Management
The body's metabolism is disturbed by little sleep, insufficient exercise, and irregular eating schedules. This accelerates the body's retention of toxins. A little sunlight every day is also good. Taking a natural vitamin D supplement promotes healthy skin and can help manage symptoms. The body needs a restful night's sleep in order to be rejuvenated.
It's essential to maintain a healthy routine that includes rising early, going to bed early, eating meals on schedule, avoiding overeating, and exercising.
The secret to controlling psoriasis is stress management. Since stress is known to cause flare-ups, learning how to de-stress can have a significant impact. Stress reduction and skin calmness can be achieved by incorporating mindful techniques like yoga, meditation, and pranayama (breathing exercises).