Addressing your teenager’s bad breath and itchy skin through the lens of Siddha-Ayurveda involves understanding both bodily imbalances and lifestyle factors. These symptoms suggest potential Pitta and Kapha imbalances, affecting digestive fire and skin health. Let’s tackle each concern in turn.
For bad breath, or “halitosis,” it often stems from an imbalance in digestion or oral hygiene. Incorporate Tridosha-balancing herbs like Triphala; have her take one teaspoon mixed with warm water before bed. Encourage her to rinse her mouth with warm water mixed with a pinch of turmeric and salt daily. Ensure she maintains proper oral hygiene: brush twice daily, floss, and, if possible, use tongue scraper. Also, drinking lukewarm water infused with holy basil leaves throughout the day can cleanse and balance stomach acids, reducing bad breath.
Itchy skin post-bath or massage might occur due to skin’s reaction to oils or water temperature, indicating heightened Pitta. Advise using cooling oils like coconut mixed with a few drops of neem oil for massages. This combination has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and calm the skin. Ensure bathing water is neither too hot nor too cold. After bathing, apply a paste made of chickpea flour (besan) and yogurt, leaving it on for 10 minutes a few times a week to exfoliate and cool the skin.
If symptoms persist or worsen despite these steps, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider. Consider completeness of diet, as both conditions can be exacerbated by nutrient deficiencies or excesses. Eliminate overly spicy, oily, or processed foods, and if needed, incorporate cooling, sattvic foods like cucumber, coconut, and leafy greens. Balancing doshas through diet and lifestyle changes can provide significant improvements, but persistent issues warrant professional attention.
