What is Psoriasis ?
It is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While there is no known cure for psoriasis, a multitude of treatment options are available to help manage its symptoms. Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine, has been used for centuries to treat various diseases and conditions, including psoriasis. In recent years, there has been growing interest in the use of Ayurvedic treatments for psoriasis. In this article, we will explore the evidence-based treatment success of Ayurveda for psoriasis.
Why Ayurveda can contribute?
Being an autoimmune disease it is quite difficult to treat in modern system of medicine and there is always chances of recurrence. Methotrexate, corticosteroids etc. can be used for both skin and joint manifestations in conventional system of medicine, but their long-term use is hindered by safety concerns.(Gan, et al. 2013) Therefore, there is need to develop a management for psoriasis which can give benefit on a long run without any adverse effects. Ayurveda has the potential evidence based solutions in treating the autoimmune disease Psoriasis without recurrence, if the patient approach the Ayurveda physician in the first stage of disease.
How does Ayurveda helps in managing Psoriasis?
Ayurveda, which is derived from two Sanskrit words "ayu" meaning life and "veda" meaning knowledge, is a traditional system of medicine that originated in India more than 5,000 years ago. Ayurveda is grounded on the belief that health and wellness depend on a delicate balance between the mind, body, and spirit. Ayurvedic treatments for psoriasis offer a holistic approach, which includes dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, and the use of herbs and other natural remedies.
Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to treating psoriasis, which includes dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, and the use of herbs and other natural remedies. Some of the commonly used Ayurvedic treatments for psoriasis include:
Panchakarma: Panchakarma is a detoxification procedure that involves five therapeutic treatments aimed at removing toxins from the body. Panchakarma has been shown to be effective in improving psoriasis symptoms.
Diet and Lifestyle Modifications: According to Ayurveda, psoriasis is caused by an imbalance in the body's doshas, or energy centers. Diet and lifestyle modifications are aimed at restoring the balance of the doshas. Some of the recommended changes include avoiding spicy and sour foods, eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and engaging in regular exercise and meditation.
Herbal Remedies: Ayurvedic herbs like turmeric, neem, and aloe vera have been shown to be effective in treating psoriasis. These herbs have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and itching.
Local Application- Various evidence based cream, oils are used for local application.
Research on Ayurvedic treatments for psoriasis-
1. Verma, V., Singh, S., & Abhinav. (2022). A systematic review on efficacy of Virechan karma on Psoriasis w.s.r to Ek-kustha. International Journal of Ayurvedic Medicine, 13(2), 289–295. https://doi.org/10.47552/ijam.v13i2.2518
2. Mahajan, B. B., & Patil, S. (2016). A randomized controlled trial to evaluate the efficacy of Manjishthaadi Kwath in the management of psoriasis. Journal of Ayurveda and integrative medicine, 7(1), 14–19.
3. Sona, D., Kunjam, D. K., gupta, P. kumar, Rathiya, S., & Chandravanshi, L. (2021). Ayurved for Skin Disorders, A Clinical Success Story of Guttate Psoriasis. International Journal of Ayurvedic Medicine, 12(1), 153–158. https://doi.org/10.47552/ijam.v12i1.1816
4. Mehta CS, Dave AR, Shukla V D. A clinical study of some Ayurvedic compound drugs in the assessment quality of life of patients with Eka Kushtha (psoriasis). AYU 2011;32:333-9
Note- Consultation with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner is essential before opting for Ayurvedic treatments for psoriasis as Ayurveda treat this disease based on individual dosha and prakriti status.
Some of the best Ayurveda Hospital treating successfully Psoriasis-
Government Hospitals -
1. All India Institute of Ayurveda, Delhi, G77X+7R4, Mathura Rd, Gautam Puri, Sarita Vihar, New Delhi, Delhi 110076, India (Website- https://aiia.gov.in/ )
2. National Institute of Ayurveda, Madhav Vilas Palace, Jorawar Singh Gate, Amer Road, JAIPUR - 302002 (RAJASTHAN) INDIA (Website- https://www.nia.nic.in/ )
3. All India Institute of Ayurveda, MRPP+QW9, Dargalim, Goa 403519 (Website- https://aiia.gov.in/ )
4. IMS, BHU, Aurobindo Colony, Bhelupur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005 (Website- https://bhu.ac.in )
5. ITRA, Opp. B-Division Police Station, Gurudwara Road, Jamnagar, Gujarat 361008. (Website- https://itra.ac.in/ )
Private hospitals and clinics
1. Attice Ayurveda, Ground Floor, 468, opposite to Huda Market, Sector 40, Gurugram, Haryana 122003 (Website- https://atticeayurveda.in/ )