What Are Psoriasis Ayurvedic Treatments?

Question

I’ve been struggling with psoriasis for a few years, and while modern treatments help manage flare-ups, they don’t seem to offer lasting relief. I’m curious about psoriasis Ayurvedic treatments and how effective they are for long-term management of this condition.

My symptoms include red, scaly patches on my elbows, knees, and scalp that itch and sometimes crack. From what I’ve read, psoriasis is linked to an imbalance in the doshas, particularly Pitta and Vata. Does this mean that psoriasis Ayurvedic treatments focus on cooling Pitta and calming Vata?

I’ve heard about herbal remedies like neem, turmeric, and aloe vera being used to reduce inflammation and soothe the skin. Are these remedies applied directly to the affected areas, or should they be consumed internally as well? For example, does drinking neem juice or taking turmeric capsules help as much as applying these topically?

Another question I have is about detoxification. Many Ayurvedic articles mention Panchakarma therapies like Virechana (purgation) and Abhyanga (oil massage) as effective for managing psoriasis. Has anyone tried these therapies, and how long does it take to see results?

Lastly, does Ayurveda suggest specific dietary changes for psoriasis? I’ve read that spicy, oily, and acidic foods can worsen Pitta, so should I completely avoid these? Are there foods or drinks that actively help improve the condition?

If anyone has experience managing psoriasis Ayurvedic treatments, I’d love to hear about your journey. What worked for you, and how consistent do you need to be to see improvements?

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

In Ayurveda, psoriasis is often seen as a result of an imbalance in Pitta (which governs heat and inflammation) and Vata (which controls dryness and movement), and treatments typically focus on cooling Pitta and calming Vata. Ayurvedic remedies for psoriasis often include both internal and external approaches. Herbs like neem, turmeric, and aloe vera can help reduce inflammation and soothe the skin, and they are used both topically (as pastes or oils) and internally (as teas, powders, or capsules) to tackle the condition from multiple angles. Panchakarma therapies like Virechana (purgation) and Abhyanga (oil massage) are effective detoxifying treatments that can help cleanse the body and balance the doshas, but the results may take several weeks or even months, depending on the severity of the condition. Diet is also an essential part of managing psoriasis; it’s recommended to avoid spicy, oily, and acidic foods, which can aggravate Pitta. Instead, focus on cooling foods like cucumbers, melons, leafy greens, and whole grains, and stay hydrated with herbal teas such as coriander or fennel tea. Consistency in treatment and diet, along with a holistic approach, is key to seeing lasting improvements in psoriasis.

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