How Does Our Weak Immunity Result In Psoriasis? What Is The Ayurvedic Treatment For Psoriasis?

ABSTRACT

The skin is the body's outermost layer, which protects the whole body structure against any injury. The skin is the outer shield of the body which plays many roles like protecting the body, helping to maintain moisture and the body temperature, reducing harmful effects of UV and other radiations and most importantly working as sensory organs which detect touch and temperature. The skin consists of three tissue segments i.e. Epidermis, Dermis and Adipose tissue. Thus, it is necessary to protect the skin for its proper functioning. Here, we are going to learn about Psoriasis which involves the skin. Psoriasis is a skin disorder in which the immune system is involved. In this disorder, the immune system of the body is overactive and the immune system attacks the healthy skin cells. This inflammation causes skin discolouration, red patches and many more. Now, we are going to study the role of immunity in Psoriasis and its management of Psoriasis by Ayurvedic medications. Let's start!

INTRODUCTION

Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin disorder in which the skin gets rashes, itching, scales and patches all over the body. It is a chronic autoimmune disorder which is non-contagious. It is an autoimmune disorder which causes skin cells to multiply faster compared to normal cell multiplication and this faster multiplication causes skin to peel and replace old skin cells, drying, itchy and red/ pink patches covering the entire body mainly on the elbow, trunk, scalp and knees. It is a very common and long-term disease. This condition usually flares up which means it occurs suddenly and subsidies for some time. The condition of Psoriasis may also be due to the genetic component which is passed to offspring by biological parents. So it can also run in families. The condition of Psoriasis can be triggered by any irritant or any other allergen which may vary from person to person. Psoriasis is not a contagious disease which means it can not be spread from one person to another person by physical contact. In this article, we are going to study details about Psoriasis, its causes, signs and symptoms, its diagnosis and Ayurvedic treatment. Also, we got details about the Psora care pack for Psoriasis by Planet Ayurveda.

ROLE OF THE IMMUNE SYSTEM IN PSORIASIS

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition in which T cells (immune cells) attack the healthy skin cells of the body. This attack by T cells results in an inflammatory change in the skin. This immune cell attack causes the body to produce more skin cells in a faster manner which is about ten times faster than normal skin cell production. This faster production results in the peeling of extra skin cells from the topmost and leads to plaque formation. In Psoriasis conditions the immune cells are overactive than in normal conditions. This overaction of the immune system causes inflammatory reactions in healthy tissues.

CAUSES OF PSORIASIS

The causes of Psoriasis are not known properly. However, the immune system plays a major role in the formation of this disorder. The over-reactivity of immune cells is the main cause of skin cell multiplication and causes inflammatory reactions in skin cells. In Psoriasis, the immune system of the body mistakenly attacks healthy cells in place of foreign invaders, bacteria or other microorganisms. Another cause may be genetic, in which a component of this disorder may be passed to the offspring by parents. However, there may be some triggers that can flare up the condition of Psoriasis which may be:

• Stress
• Any infection
• Skin injury
• Weather changes
• Medications like beta blockers

According to Ayurveda, causes(निदान) of Psoriasis are as follows,

विरोधीन्यन्नपानानि द्रवस्निग्धगुरुणी च |
भजतामगताम् छर्दिम् वेगाश्चान्यान्प्रतिघ्न्ताम् ||
व्यायाममतिसन्तापमतिभुक्तवोपसेविनाम् |
शीतोष्णलङ्घनाहारान क्रमं मुक्त्वा निषेविणाम् ||
घर्मश्रमभयार्तानाम् द्रुतं शीताम्बुसेविनाम् |
अजीर्णाध्यशिनाम् चेव पञ्चकर्मापचारिणम् ||
नवान्नदधिमत्स्यातिलवणाम्लानिषेविणाम् |
माषमूलकपिष्टान्नतिलक्षीरगुदाशिनाम् ||
व्यवायम् चाप्याजिर्णअन्ने निद्राम् च भजताम् दिवा |
विप्रान् गुरुन् धर्षयताम् पापं कर्म च कुर्वताम् ||

Reference - चरक संहिता चिकित्सास्थान 7/4-8

• Consuming food like unctuous (Snigdha), heavy (guru) ahara (food)
• Suppression of natural urge to vomit and other
• Exercise after eating food
• Excess consumption of cold and hot food
• Excess consumption of sunlight
• Consuming cold water in conditions of exhaustion and fear
• Consuming food that is not properly cooked
• Eating before digestion of previous food
• Complication of Panchkarma
• Excess consumption of New grains, curd, fish, salty (Lavana) and amla (sour) items
• Consumption of items made up of milk, jaggery, Pishtanna (recipes made up of grinding rice), black gram and radish
• Coitus in indigestion condition
• Sleep in the daytime

SIGNS OF PSORIASIS

Psoriasis is a disorder in which there is an involvement of the skin. Common signs of Psoriasis are as follows:

• Dry and thick skin
• Raised patches on the skin
• Silver white coating on the patches

SYMPTOMS OF PSORIASIS

Symptoms of Psoriasis may vary from one person to another person according to the factors that affect or trigger Psoriasis i.e. infection, stress, any medication, environmental changes or maybe any skin injury. Following are some of the common symptoms of the Psoriasis:

• Patchy rashes may vary from person to person i.e. it may be dandruff-like swelling or maybe eruption
• Red, pink or silvery-white coloured scales
• Itching on the patches
• Burning sensation on affected skin area
• Flare-up of rashes i.e. it may appear sometimes and subside automatically
• Dry and cracked skin and may be bleeding from the rashes
• Rashes usually appear on elbows, trunk (lower back), knees and scalp areas.
• Inadequate sleep

According to Ayurveda, the symptoms of Psoriasis are as follows:

अस्वेदनम महावास्तु यन्मत्यस्यशकलोपमम् |
तदेककुष्ठम् चर्माख्यम् बहलम् हस्तिचर्मवत् ||

Reference - चरक संहिता चिकित्सास्थान 7/21

• Lack of sweating in the affected area.
• Spread in a vast area
• Structured like fish

DIAGNOSIS OF PSORIASIS

Diagnosis of Psoriasis can be easily done by examining nails, scalp and skin by the signs of the disorder. However, if there is any doubt following tests can be done:

• Blood test to check for any infection or inflammation
• Skin biopsy to differentiate between Psoriasis and eczema
• Patch test or Imaging test for detection of other conditions that are associated with Psoriasis

AYURVEDIC OVERVIEW OF PSORIASIS

Psoriasis is a disorder in which the autoimmune system is not working its normal way i.e. it is overactive. The exact causes of Psoriasis still need to be properly defined. According to some researchers it may be inherited, or may be due to triggers like stress and infections. In Ayurveda, descriptions of all skin skin diseases are grouped under Kushta Roga. The correlation of Psoriasis is done with Ekakushta which is a type of Kushta Roga. Features of Psoriasis and Ekakushta are similar in nature. The causes of Ekakushta are defined above. When due to the above causative factors Doshas (mainly Vata and Kapha) are vitiated. Due to the vitiation of Doshas, Dushyas also vitiated. The Dushyas involved are skin (Twak), blood (Rakta), flesh (Mamsa), serum (Ambu/ Lasika) etc. The Vitiation of the above-mentioned Doshas and Dushays leads to the formation of red patches all over the body which are similar to Psoriasis. The Ayurvedic line of treatment (chikitsa sutra) for Ekakushta (Kushta roga) is as follows:

सर्वं त्रिदोषजं कुष्ठम् तु बलाबलम् |
यथा स्वेर्लक्ष्णेर्बुध्वा कुष्ठानाम् क्रियते क्रिया ||
दोषस्य यस्य पश्येत् कुष्ठेषु विशेषलिङ्गमुद्रीतम् |
तस्येव शमम् कुर्याततः परम् चानुबन्धस्य ||

Reference - चरक संहिता चिकित्सास्थान 7/31-32

According to the above Shloka, all the Kushta including Ekakushta is Tridoshas ( all the three doshas i.e. Vata, Pitta and Kapha are involved ). So one should choose the line of treatment according to the symptoms and strength (Bala) of the patient. The Dosha which is increased more than others should be treated first. Then after this other doshas should be treated. Ayurvedic treatment for psoriasis/ Ekakushta can be given in both external modes that are in the form of Lepa (application of medicated paste formed from herbs) or internal mode that is in the form of tablet, powder, capsule or decoction. Ayurvedic formulations that can be given for the treatment of Ekakushta are Panchatikta Ghrita, Madhvasava, Mustadi churna, Tiktashatpalaka ghrita, Mahatiktaka ghrita and many more.

DIET FOR PSORIASIS

• Fresh and seasonal vegetables like bottled gourd, bitter gourd spinach, broccoli, pumpkin etc.
• Use low-fat dairy products and cow ghee
• Excessive intake of water to stay hydrated
• Avoid alcohol intake
• Avoid junk food, spicy and oily food
• Fruits like watermelon, apple, papaya, pear, peaches, pomegranate
• Pulses like yellow lentils, split grams and green lentils
• Avoid excess salt and red chilli in the food
• Use Whole grains, gram flour, soybean flour and brown rice in food

HOME REMEDIES FOR PSORIASIS

• Decoction of Fennel, coriander and cumin
• Daruharidra (Berberis aristata) churna with Gomutra (cow urine)
• Decoction of Triphala which consists of Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellerica) and Amalaki (Emblica officinalis)
• Decoction of Saptaparna (Alstonia scholaris)

PANCHKARMA IN PSORIASIS

वातोतरेषु सर्पिर्वमन् श्लेष्मोतरेषु कुष्ठेषु |
पितोतरेषु मोक्षो रक्तस्य विरेचनम् चाग्रे ||
वमनविरेचनयोगः कल्पोक्ताः कुष्ठिनाम् प्रयोक्तव्याः |
प्रच्छनमल्पे कुष्ठे महति च शस्तं सिराव्यधनम् ||

Reference - चरक संहिता चिकित्सास्थान 7/39-40

• Oral administration of medicated Ghee in Vataj type of Kushta
• Therapeutic emesis in Kapha type of Kushta
• Raktamokshana (eliminating vitiated blood from the body by para-surgical methods) in the Pittaj type of Kushta
• Prachana Karma (bloodletting therapy by making multiple pricks on the affected area which helps in oozing of vitiated blood) is done in the condition when Doshas vitiated in small amounts
• Siravedha karma (surgical procedure in which vein is punctured for therapeutic purposes) is done in the conditions when Doshas are vitiated in large amounts
• Asthapana and Anuvasna Basti (Therapeutic decoction enema).

HERBAL REMEDIES FOR PSORIASIS BY PLANET AYURVEDA

Planet Ayurveda always promotes Ayurveda through its best and highest quality of drugs. All the herbal supplements formed by Planet Ayurveda are made up of natural herbs. Planet Ayurveda manufactures a large scale of drugs which consist of ingredients that are highly efficient in nature. Planet Ayurveda always forms medicines from natural herbs and thus always promotes the pure form of Ayurveda. Here we are going to discuss such a formulation by Planet Ayurveda which is very efficient in function to treat Psoriasis. Psora Care Pack by Planet Ayurveda is a complete remedy to treat the problem of Psoriasis. Psora Care pack consists of 8 products that are Navkarshik Churna, Gleaming Skin, hair, nails formula, Neem capsules, Manjishtha capsules, Pitta balance, Gandhak rasayan, Radiant skin, hair, nails lotion and Jatyadi tailam. Let's study the details of these products:

PRODUCTS LIST

1. Navkarshik Churna
2. Gleaming Skin, Hair, Nails Formula
3. Neem Capsules
4. Manjishtha Capsules
5. Pitta Balance
6. Gandhak Rasayan
7. Radiant Skin, Hair, Nails Lotion
8. Jatyadi Tailam

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

1. Navkarshik Churna

Navkarshik churna is a formulation made up of herbs that are Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellerica), Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia) and Kutki (Picrorhiza kurroa) and many other. This churna helps to maintain the overall health of the skin. It also helps in the purification of blood as it contains ingredients that work as Rakta shodhak (blood purifiers). It is helpful in maintaining the metabolism of the body and relieves pain.

Dosage: 1 tablespoon twice daily with warm water after meals.

2. Gleaming Skin, Hair, Nails Formula

Gleaming skin, hair and nails formula by Planet Ayurveda consists of many ingredients like Manjista (Rubia cordifolia), Chirayta (Swertia chirayita), Ghrit Kumari (Aloe barbadensis) and Pit Papad (Fumaria officinalis). This formula is a natural product by Planet Ayurveda that comes in capsule form. This formula is helpful in maintaining skin health by maintaining its normal pH. It helps maintain all three doshas (Vata, Pitta and Kapha). This formula is useful in the treatment of hair loss, nail fungus, pimples and dandruff. This formula is best for the overall health of skin, hair and nails.

Dosage: 2 capsules twice daily with lukewarm water after the meals.

3. Neem Capsules

Neem capsules by Planet Ayurveda is a single herb formulation which consists of Neem (Azadirachta indica). Neem in Ayurveda is a very useful herb for the treatment of many diseases. In Psoriasis neem capsules are best known for their function. It is useful in all types of skin disorders. It is also useful in skin-related infections. Neem bark is acrid, bitter and astringent in nature. It cleanses the skin by its astringent nature. Neem is also useful in itching of skin.

Dosage: 1 capsule twice daily with warm water after meals.

4. Manjishtha Capsules

Manjishtha Capsule is also a single herb formulation of Manjishtha (Rubia cordifolia). As in Psoriasis, there is an overactivation of the immune system and these capsules are best for their function to control the overactivation of the immune system. It also helps in maintaining skin health. Manjishtha consists of the property of Raktashodhak (blood purifier). It also balances Pitta due to its property of Pitta pacifying.

Dosage: 2 capsules twice a day with warm water after the meals.

5. Pitta Balance

Pitta balance is a formulation in the form of capsules which consists of ingredients like Kamdudha Ras, Mukta Pishti, Jahar Mohra Pishti and Giloy Satva (Tinospora cordifolia). And many more. All the ingredients in these capsules help in balancing Pitta and thus are helpful in maintaining Psoriasis. It also helps in maintaining digestive-related problems and in that way helps in the treatment of psoriasis as it increases Pitta dosha in Rasa dhatu. That is how it helps in maintaining skin health.

Dosage: 1 capsule twice daily with warm water after the meals.

6. Gandhak Rasayan

Gandhak is a purified sulphur which is a solo ingredient of Gandhak rasayan. It comes in the tablet form. It helps in removing harmful toxins from the skin. It works as a detoxification of blood. It improves the immune system and increases the glow of the skin. It helps maintain skin health and also detoxifies the entire circulatory system. It helps in the formation of healthy skin cells. That's how it works best in maintaining the overall health of the body.

Dosage: 2 tablets twice a day with warm water after the meals.

7. Radiant Skin, Hair, Nails Lotion

It is a formulation by Planet Ayurveda which consists of ingredients like Curcumin (Curcuma longa), Neem (Azadirachta indica), Jasmine (Jasminum officinalle), Coconut (Cocos nucifera) and many more herbal products. It provides a cooling effect and is thus helpful in balancing Pitta. It helps relieve itching in the case of Psoriasis. It also helps in relieving inflammation and redness in the patches of Psoriasis. That is how it helps in maintaining the condition of Psoriasis symptoms.

Dosage: For external use only. Apply twice a day on the affected area after cleaning.

8. Jatyadi Tailam

Jatyadi tailam by Planet Ayurveda consists of ingredients like Jati (Myristica fragrans), Neem (Azadirachta indica), Haridra (Curcuma longa) and many more ingredients. It is best known for its healing action all over the body. It is also helpful in reducing inflammation and redness.

Dosage: Apply twice a day on the affected area after cleaning. For external use only.

CONCLUSION

Psoriasis is a disorder that involves the immune system of the body. The exact cause of Psoriasis is still unknown. It is very important to manage the condition of Psoriasis. In addition to the treatment of the skin, it is also necessary to manage the other conditions that can increase the chances of Psoriasis. The trigger factors that can flare the conditions of Psoriasis should be managed. These triggers are stress, any type of infection, and any injury to the skin should be prevented. Any medication that can increase the chances of Psoriasis should be avoided. People who are prone to Psoriasis must take care of the conditions of changes in the environment. In Ayurveda, there is vast detail about skin disorders. Skin disorders are correlated to the Kushtha roga in Ayurveda and Psoriasis above those skin disorders is compared to the Ekakushtha. In Ayurveda, there is a proper detail of causes, signs, symptoms and treatment for Psoriasis (Ekakushtha).

Ayurvedic Treatment for Psoriasis - Herbal Remedies, Panchakarma Therapies & Diet

Among the skin diseases, psoriasis is the most troubling and deteriorating disease that affects the skin or the integumentary system. It is a chronic inflammatory disease of the skin, characterized by well- defined erythematous plaques with large, adherent and silvery scales. This disease is also categorized under autoimmune diseases because the prime reason for psoriasis is our overactive immune system.

Overall, the course of the disease is unpredictable but is usually chronic with exacerbations and remissions. Our reduced immunity is the cause of its relapse. As this condition relapses frequently the underlying skin becomes discolored and gives an ugly look to our personality. In Ayurveda, psoriasis is called as 'Kushtha' which is a "Pitta Pradhana Tridoshaj Vyadhi".

WHAT CAUSES PSORIASIS?

• Dietary factors (Aaharaj karana) – As per Ayurveda certain foodstuffs can cause skin lesions. If a person is consuming excessive hot, spicy, sour, fermented, oily foodstuffs, junk foods, curd, etc.
• Lifestyle factors (Viharaj karana) – Indulging in activities like excessive exposure to sunlight, sedentary lifestyle, etc. may lead to the vitiation of pitta dosha in our body.
• Mental factors (Mental status) – Mental tension, and stress can exaggerate the condition.
• Hereditary factors – Skin diseases can  also be inherited
• Occupational hazard – Those who work in chemical factories, under high temperatures, they are prone to develop skin problems.
• History of Skin infections – Some skin infections in later stages may lead to psoriasis.
• Allergy – History of any allergy may be a triggering factor for this disease. Allergy from particular food items, medications, dust, smoke, pollens and chemicals.
• Cosmetics – Some external applications may damage our dermis layer.
• Climatic or environmental changes – Seasonal and climatic changes can provoke the condition. 

PRECIPITATING FACTORS

The factors that are responsible for flare-ups are –

• Medications – Long term use of steroids, beta- blockers can affect our immune system and reduce our immunity. As impaired immunity is one of the main factors for developing diseases in our body.
• Trauma – Any trauma to the skin can damage the epidermal layer of skin further which gives rise to infection and can cause psoriasis.
• Anxiety may precipitates some exacerbations.
• Habits like smoking and drinking alcohol.
• Unhygienic conditions.

As per Ayurveda some other factors may also be responsible for this condition, they are –

• Suppression of natural urges especially Chardi vega (vomiting)
• Consumption of food before the digestion of the previous meal.
• Virudha aahaar – Regular consumption of unwholesome food leads to the accumulation of toxins in the body.
• Skin lesion can occur as a complication of improper Panchakarma.

Reference – Charaka samhita / Chikitsa sthana / Kushtha chikitsa / Chapter no. 7 / Shloka no. 7

Meaning – Excessive consumption of newly harvested grains, curd, fish, salt, black gram, radish, fermented foods, jaggery, milk, sesame, etc are the foods can develop psoriasis.

WHAT IS THE ROLE OF OUR IMMUNE SYSTEM IN CAUSATION OF PSORIASIS?

As discussed earlier it is an autoimmune disease which means immune system is responsible for psoriasis. Increased epidermal cell proliferation which leads to psoriatic patches is related to the increased replication and metabolism of dermal fibroblasts that is initiated by overactive immune system.

Another involvement of the immune system is denoted by defective and impaired functioning of T helper cells and neutrophils where they anticipate the healthy tissues as antigens and destruct the epidermal layer and form lesions which are scaly and discolored.

Moreover, Ayurveda considers that the weak immune system is responsible for almost all the diseases.

WHAT ARE THE TYPES OF PSORIASIS?

1. Plaque psoriasis – This psoriasis is the most common one. Scaly formations have been seen over the affected area, these are silvery and white in color. Individual lesions are well demarcated and range from a few millimeters to several centimeters. The most common sites are – elbows, scalp, and knees. These plaques can be peeled off.
2. Guttate psoriasis – Small pink spots emerge over the skin. We can observe this type of psoriasis in youths. The rash often appears rapidly and individual lesions are droplet –shaped, small and scaly. This is a self- limiting condition. Most common sites are – trunk and limbs.
3. Pustular psoriasis – Pus-filled eruptions surrounded by red skin will arise and are not infectious. The common sites are hands and feet.
4. Inverse psoriasis – Patch of the skin is blood red and shiny that are usually found in the groin, breast and armpit region. This problem is due to sweating and itching.
5. Erythrodermic psoriasis – Rarest type, but a very serious one, which may affect our other systems like respiratory and cardiovascular, if not treated on time.
6. Nail psoriasis – This condition is more common in the patients suffering from arthritis which affects our nails of hands and feet. It occurs due to fungal infection. Patients of nail psoriasis exhibit pains, tenderness, discolored nails, pit formation in nails, etc
7. Currently, one more type has been noticed i.e. ‘Psoriatic arthritis’. Actually, it is not a type, it is a complication of psoriasis.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

The common signs and symptoms of Psoriasis are -

• Itching
• Rashes
• Burning sensation
• Pains
• Oozing out blood
• Lacerations
• Discoloration of skin
• Formation of pustules
• Excessive sweating
• Flakes formation
• Dryness all over the body
• Cracked skin
• Pricking pain
• Sometimes swelling may be present
• Joint problems
• Dullness of senses
• Horripilation
• With time person may lose sensation over the affected area.

CARDINAL FEATURES OF KUSHTHA AS PER AYURVEDA

The symptoms of this disease may vary due to predominance of doshas –

• In Pitta pradhan kushtha – The lesions are associated with burning sensation.
• If kapha pradhan kushtha – The lesions are associated with itching and lacerations.
• If Vata pradhan kushtha – The lesions are associated with pain and loss of sensation.

PATHOLOGY AS PER AYURVEDA

The pathogenesis of kushtha explained in our classics goes as -

Reference – Charaka samhita / Chikitsa sthana / Kushtha chikitsa / Chapter no. 7 / Shloka no. 9

Meaning – The meaning of this quotation goes as – vitiated vata –pitta – kapha dosha get localized and vitiate our twak (skin), rakta (blood), lasika (lymph), mamsa (muscles). These are the 7 prime factors that are responsible for the causation of skin lesions in our body.

DIAGNOSIS

The skin problems can be diagnosed symptomatically but to rule out the exact cause and extent of penetration of skin lesion, we can take the help of few investigations they are –

• Skin prick tests
• CBC (Complete blood count)
• ESR (Erythrocyte sedimentation rate)
• Immunological assay
• Biopsy

MANAGEMENT STRATEGY

Ayurveda is a holistic science that resolves and eradicates psoriasis. The management strategy goes as –

• Detoxifying the body internally as well as externally.
• Maintaining Agni
• Rejuvenating the damaged cells
• Enhancing immunity
• Restoring the normal color

AYURVEDIC TREATMENT

Ayurveda potentially treats all the diseases with its full-fledged wings of therapies i.e. Shaman chikitsa (Palliative care) and Shodhana chikitsa (Purification therapies).

Shaman chikitsa includes the administration of internal medicines so for managing this problem Planet Ayurveda has a perfect solution – PSORA CARE PACK. It is group of effective herbal remedies that has the potency to treat all types of psoriasis. The herbs used in these formulations are of standard quality and are natural. These are totally chemicals and steroids free medicines.

Psora Care Pack

DESCRIPTION OF PSORA CARE PACK

1. Navakarshik Churna

Navakarshik churna is a combination of amalaki (Emblica officinalis), haritaki (Terminalia chebula), bibhitiki (Terminalia bellirica), daruharidra (Berberis aristata), vacha (Acorus calamus), manjishtha (Rubia cordifolia), katuki (Picrorhiza kurroa), guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia).

Triphala is well-known for its detoxifier property. Katuki and guduchi help to purify the liver, hence help to eliminate toxins from the body. Manjishtha, daruharidra and vacha are helpful in the purification of blood. Basically, this churna helps to detoxify the whole body by removing toxins from the liver, colon and blood. It also helps to relieve constipation.

Dosage: 1 teaspoon twice daily with plain water after meals.

2. Gleaming Skin, Hair, Nails Formula

Rubia cordifolia (Manjista), Fumaria officinalis (Pit papad), Swertia chiretta (Chirayata), Aloe barbadensis (Ghrit kumari) are ingredients of this natural product that comes in capsules form. Standardized extracts are used here for better results. Gleaming Skin, Hair, Nails Formula helps to maintain healthy skin and balances pitta doshas along with vata and kapha. This also helps to support health pH of skin to keep skin healthy in all way.

Dosage: 2 capsules twice daily with plain water after meals.

3. Neem Capsules

Neem (Azadirachta indica) is a known herb for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and blood purification properties. It helps to eliminate toxins from the body and even increases the body's defensive mechanism for fighting against bacteria and viruses.

Dosage: 1 capsule twice daily with plain water after meals.

4. Manjishtha Capsules

These capsules contain the extract of manjishtha. It is an effective herb in treating skin problems. It acts as a blood purifier and as an anti-oxidant herb which helps to pacify Pitta dosha in our body. It helps to regain the normal skin color and also enhances the complexion.

Dosage: 2 capsules twice daily with plain water after meals.

5. Pitta Balance

The constituents of pitta balance are - akik pisti, praval pishti, jaharmohra pishti, kamdudha ras, mukta pishti and giloy satva. All these medicines act on our immune system. They have immune modulator property, which helps to enhance our immunity and digestive problems are very common in skin lesions, thus pitta balance helps to manage the digestive fire.

Dosage: 1 capsule twice daily with plain water after meals.

6. Jatyadi Oil

This is a classical formulation which is composed of haridra, jati, nimba, patola, manjishtha, katu rohini, tutha, etc herbs and some metallic contents, they have penetrating property hence heals the deep-seated wounds or non- healing wounds. This oil is very beneficial in chronic psoriatic conditions. It also restores the normal color and reduced sensation of the affected area.

7. Recumin Gel

Recumin gel is a patent product of Planet Ayurveda which has shown tremendous results in case of skin disorders. It promotes early healing of wounds, restores the normal color and texture of the skin by removing the scaly de-pigmented patches from the body. Recumin gel contains Azadirachta indica, Jasmine officinalis, Commiphora mukul, Celastrus paniculatus, Sesame indicum, Cocus nucifera, etc. Basically, the herbs in this gel have anti-bacterial action and improve skin complexion.

Usage: For external use only, this Jatyadi oil and Recumin gel can be mixed together and apply twice daily on the affected area after cleaning the area.

In the absence of Recumin gel or Jatyadi oil you can also use Lippu oil and Psorolin ointment. Which are also equally effective in this condition.

Lippu Oil

The components of lippu oil are karanja (Pongamia glabra) and coconut oil. Karanja is an effective anti-bacterial medicine and coconut helps to manage proper skin tone and gives soothing effect to the skin. This is an effective combination to remove flakes from the skin and helps to heal skin tissues.

Usage: Apply locally on lesions after bath and expose to sunlight for about 5 min.

Psorolin Ointment

This ointment is helpful to reduce the abnormal growth of skin cells. It even creates a layer to protect your skin from infectious agents present in the surroundings. As scales are commonly formed, it helps to reduce them.

This ointment is formed by using the oil extracts of Wrightia tinctoria and cynodon dactylon. 

Usage: Apply locally on lesions at night.

PANCHAKARMA

A potent branch of Ayurveda that helps to resolve the problem internally as well as externally by detoxification. Here the therapies that are helpful in this condition are –

• Patra Pinda Sweda (Leaf bundle massage) - It helps to exfoliate the dead skin and skin lesions.
• Basti (Medicated enema) – Medicated enema helps to detoxify the toxins from the blood as well as stimulates the enteric nervous system hence it stimulates the immune system.
• Virechana (Purgation therapy) – This procedure helps to eliminate vitiated pitta dosha and ama from the body hence purifies body.
• Jaloka avcharna (Leech therapy) – It helps to eliminate toxins from the blood.

DIETARY AND LIFESTYLE MANAGEMENT

• Avoid the excessive intake of oily, sour, salty, sweet and fermented foodstuffs.
• Avoid milk and milk products
• Carrot juice is very effective in relieving the symptoms of psoriasis. Hence, include it in your daily diet.
• You can take sweets made from pumpkin
• Cow ghee is a rasayana that helps in rejuvenation of the cells. Include ghee in your diet instead of Refined oil.
• Fresh juices (Consume Everyday)

Green Juice

• Coriander (dhaniya) leaves – 10-12
• Mint (pudina) leaves – 4-5
• Spinach (palak) leaves – 2
• Basil (tulsi) leaves – 2-3
• Wheatgrass (gehun ke jware) – 5-6
• Long grass juice (durva) – 6-7
• Sheesham leaves – 2-3

* 20 ml or 2 tbsp., twice daily can be taken. *

Red Juice

• Beetroot
• Carrot
• Pumpkin
• Amla
• Apple
• Pomegranate
• Marigold flower petals – 9-10
• Rose petals – 5-6

* 200 ml, two to three times can be taken.

* For taste, black grapes can be added.

In some cases, modifications in the lifestyle and occupation are required. Try to indulge in physical exercises and yoga as it will help to improve your immune system.

SOME USEFUL TIPS

• In case of itching you can wash the lesions with the neem leaves decoction or triphala decoction.
• You can apply Aloevera gel topically to relieve burning sensation.
• Drink plenty of water as it will eliminate toxins and cleanses channels.

As per modern science psoriasis is controllable but not curable". But the only system of medicine that has potential to cure this havoc is none other than the traditional medicinal system i.e. nothing but AYURVEDA".

Psoriasis treatment in Ayurveda

Skin diseases can bring tears in your eyes because healthy skin is the reflection of overall wellness. Skin is an intermediate barrier between the internal tissues and environment. It protects us from the several chemicals, microorganisms and various toxic substances from entering inside our body. Psoriasis is also a skin disease which results due to overgrowth of skin cells and appearance of red patches, dry skin and cracked skin. Research studies related to psoriasis have shown that males have high incidence of this disease as compared to females. It has been found that prevalence of psoriasis is 2.8% in India. In USA prevalence of psoriasis has been estimated around 4.6% where as in Canada it is 4.7%.

Psoriasis Ayurvedic treatment comprises use of herbs for the treatment of psoriasis. These are  the herbs-  Neem (Azadirachta indica), Amla (Emblica officinalis), Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), Bahera (Terminalia bellerica), Giloy (Tinopsora cordifolia), Katuki (Picrorrhiza kurroa), Ghrit kumari (Aloe barbadensis) and Manjishta (Rubia cordifolia)  which help in  blood purification, healing of tissues, removal of toxins and maintain the good immunity. All these qualities of herbs are quite effective in the treatment of psoriasis.

PSORIASIS

Psoriasis is a skin disease in which changes occur in the life cycle of skin cells. In this condition there is rapid building up of cells on the surface of skin. These extra skin cells develop the dry, thick, silvery scales, dry and red patches which are painful sometimes.

SYMPTOMS OF PSORIASIS

• Red patches on skin covered with silvery scales.
• Small scaling spots are seen in the case of children.
• Bleeding in the dry and cracked skin.
• Burning, soreness and itching in the skin.
• Ridged, pitted and thickened nails.
• Swelling and stiffness in joints.

LET'S SEE THE CAUSE OF PSORIASIS

Major cause of psoriasis is rapid production of the skin cells by immune system. In our body there is type of white blood cells called as T lymphocytes which normally detect and fight against the foreign agents like bacteria or viruses. Whereas in the case of psoriasis, T cells attack healthy skin cells by mistake as like wound healing or fight against an infection. So it leads to the excessive growth of skin cells.

OTHER CAUSES THAT MAY TRIGGER PSORIASIS

• Streptococcus throat and skin infections.
• Stress
• Smoking
• Cold weather may also be the cause of Psoriasis.
• Alcohol consumption
• Certain medications like lithium which is used for bipolar disorder, antimalarial drugs and medicines for high blood pressure.

CAUSE OF PSORIASIS IN AYURVEDA

In Ayurveda, there are three energies – vata, pitta and kapha which are important to maintain a healthy body. Imbalance of any these energies result in various health complications. Psoriasis is mainly due to imbalance of vata and kapha doshas. Due to imbalance of vata and kapha there is production of toxins, these toxins get accumulated in the deep tissues like rakta (blood), rasa (nutrient plasma), mansa (muscles) and lasika (lymphatic).

PSORIASIS TREATMENT IN AYURVEDA

Planet Ayurveda offers the Psoriasis care pack to manage the psoriasis problem. This herbal pack contains the six herbal products which are discussed in detail below:-

PSORIASIS CARE PACK

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

1. Neem Capsules

Psoriasis treatment in Ayurveda has the neem capsules. These capsules are prepared from the pure extract of Neem (Azadirachta indica). Neem has great medicinal importance from ancient times to resolve various skin ailments.

Benefits –

• It helps in blood purification.
• It helps to maintain the good immunity.
• It acts as detoxifier and antiseptic.

Dosage – One capsules two times in a day with plain water after meals.

2. Navkarshik Churna

Navkarshik churna is the wonderful blend of various herbs which are quite beneficial for the treatment of psoriasis.

Ingredients –

• Amla (Emblica officinalis)
• Haritaki (Terminalia chebula)
• Bahera (Terminalia bellerica)
• Vacha (Acorus calamus)
• Neem (Azadirachta indica)
• Manjishta (Rubia cordifolia)
• Katuki (Picrorrhiza kurrao)
• Giloy (Tinopsora cordifolia)
• Daruhaldi (Berberis aristata)

Benefits – Psoriasis treatment in Ayurveda helps to provide relief in the symptoms associated with the problem like patches, rashes and cracked skin . Navkarshik churna consists various herbs which have blood purification properties and help to clear the red patches and rashes in the psoriasis.

Dosage – One teaspoonful, twice a day after meals with plain water.

3. Kaishore Guggul

Kaishore guggul is the combination of 11 herbs which are quite beneficial to provide the relief in the problem of psoriasis. This herbal formulation is available in the form of tablets.

Ingredients –

• Amalaki (Emblica officinalis),
• Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica),
• Haritaki (Terminalia chebula),
• Guggul (Commniphora mukul),
• Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia),
• Ginger (Zingiber officinale),
• Black pepper (Piper nigrum),
• Long pepper (Piper longum),
• Vidanga (Embelia ribes),
• Red Physic nut (Baliospermum montanum)
• Indian jalap (Ipomoea turpethum).

Benefits – This herbal product is safe and effective for the psoriasis treatment in Ayurveda. It helps to provide relief in the symptoms associated with psoriasis like the dry, thick, silvery scales and red patches. Herbs used in the formulation of Kaishore guggul, help in blood purification, removal of toxins from body and maintain a healthy skin.

Dosage – 2 tablets, two times in a day with plain water.

4. Radiant Skin Hair Nails Capsules

Ayurvedic treatment for the psoriasis by the Planet Ayurveda offers the radiant skin hair nails capsules which are quite beneficial and many patients are benefitted with this herbal product.

Ingredients –

• Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia)
• Pitta papda (Fumaria officinalis)
• Chirayta (Swetia chiretta)
• Ghrit kumari (Aloe barbadensis)

Benefits – This herbal product is the combination of various herbs which help to remove the toxins from body and help to maintain a healthy skin. Thus radiant skin hair nails capsules are good for the treatment of psoriasis.

Dosage – One capsules two times a day with plain water after meals.

5. Green Tea Algae Aloe Vera Gel Scrub

This herbal product is used as bathing soap. Green tea algae aloe vera gel scrub provides the relief in the skin problem which occurs in the psoriasis. It helps to removes the impurities for skin and makes skin healthy and clear. This product is prepared by the combination of various herbs which is given below-

• Giloy (Tinopsora cordifolia)
• Gulab (Rose centifolia)
• Neem (Azadirachta indica)
• Mulethi ( Glycirrhiza glaabra)

Benefits – Green tea algae aloe vera gel scrub is a complete natural product for the external use and free from any side effects. This herbal product is helpful to manage the problem of psoriasis.

How to Use – Massage gently on affected part while bathing.

6. Radiant Skin Lotion

This herbal product is good for the local use in the psoriasis. It is completely safe product and free from any side effects.

How to Use – Massage gently on affected areas.