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What are the Different Ayurvedic Psoriasis Treatments?

Maggie J. Hall
Maggie J. Hall

The different types of Ayurvedic psoriasis treatment can include dietary changes, detoxification processes, and topical preparations, in addition to skin care and lifestyle modifications. The ancient Hindu science and philosophy generally accepts autoimmune disorders and genetics as factors contributing to the skin aliment. Therapists, however, also believe the condition occurs when the body, mind, and soul reach a level of imbalance. Ayurvedic therapy usually attempts to correct these imbalances along with treating the associated symptoms of the condition. Some practitioners might incorporate Western medical treatments along with conventional Ayurvedic methodologies.

The philosophy of Ayurvedic therapy holds that the body contains three separate doshas, the kapha, the pitta, and the vata that normally regulate the body's systems harmoniously. External factors, including emotional, psychological, or physical stressors disrupt this normal balance, manifesting as physical illness. One of these external factors might involve eating the wrong foods. Ayurvedic psoriasis treatment often suggests that individuals avoid, or at least limit, their intake of acidic, salty, and spicy foods. Some of these food triggers include curds, fish, radishes, and sesame.

Many people use aloe vera gel to help relieve the discomfort of psoriasis.
Many people use aloe vera gel to help relieve the discomfort of psoriasis.

Treating psoriasis according to Ayurvedic methods also involves not eating certain foods during the same meal, for example, dairy products and fish. Natural cures for skin problems might also require individuals to undergo a detoxification process that eliminates toxins accumulated from consuming the wrong foods. This part of Ayurvedic psoriasis treatment might involve taking herbal tablet preparations that are believed to purify the blood and the liver, while enhancing normal skin development. Other herbal psoriasis treatments might involve taking tablets or preparations that therapists believe to boost natural immunity, in addition to restoring the balance of the doshas. Extreme detoxification may involve induced vomiting or enemas.

A natural scrub using besan is used in some Ayurvedic psoriasis treatments.
A natural scrub using besan is used in some Ayurvedic psoriasis treatments.

As the top layer of psoriasis lesions are typically extremely dehydrated, Ayurvedic psoriasis treatment generally includes the continuous application of herbal cream and oil preparations, designed to infuse and maintain moisture. These topical formulations also contain ingredients that reduce discomfort and irritation. Aloe vera, bee’s wax, and tea tree oil are some of the common ingredients used. Natural psoriasis treatments typically suggest methods of general skin care, and common suggestions involve avoidance of picking, peeling, or irritating lesions, and replacing conventional bathing soaps with besan flour or another type of natural scrub. Other suggestions involve avoiding cold water when bathing, patting, not rubbing the skin dry, and wearing breathable cotton fabrics.

Ayurvedic psoriasis treatment might also explore the possibility of external stressors as triggers that exacerbate the condition. Therapists might suggest exercise or meditation as a means of releasing internal pressure. Practitioners usually recommend eliminating alcohol consumption, smoking, and substance abuse, as these habits contribute to poor health and introduce toxins into the body. Ayurvedic therapists who combine ancient practices with Western medicine might prescribe coal tar preparations, topical steroids, and ultraviolet light treatments as part of therapy.

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    • Many people use aloe vera gel to help relieve the discomfort of psoriasis.
      By: cedrov
      Many people use aloe vera gel to help relieve the discomfort of psoriasis.
    • A natural scrub using besan is used in some Ayurvedic psoriasis treatments.
      By: fkruger
      A natural scrub using besan is used in some Ayurvedic psoriasis treatments.