What Is the English Name of Kushta Roga? - #11806

Caroline

I recently came across the term Kushta Roga in Ayurveda, and I understand that it refers to skin diseases. But I want to know—what is the English name of Kushta Roga, and what are its different types? From what I’ve read, Kushta Roga is a broad term in Ayurveda that includes various skin disorders, infections, and chronic skin conditions. Some sources say that it mainly refers to leprosy, while others say it includes diseases like eczema, psoriasis, and fungal infections. Does Kushta Roga always mean leprosy, or does it refer to all types of skin problems? Ayurveda classifies Kushta Roga into Maha Kushta (major skin diseases) and Kshudra Kushta (minor skin diseases). I read that Maha Kushta includes chronic and severe skin disorders, while Kshudra Kushta includes milder conditions like rashes and pigmentation. What are some examples of each category? I also read that Kushta Roga is caused by an imbalance in the Tridoshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha). Some Ayurvedic texts mention that Pitta dosha is responsible for inflammatory skin conditions, while Kapha dosha leads to oily and clogged skin disorders. What are the best Ayurvedic remedies for balancing doshas to cure Kushta Roga? Another thing I want to understand is the Ayurvedic treatment for Kushta Roga. Some people recommend Neem, Turmeric, and Aloe Vera for treating skin problems. Are there any specific herbs, Panchakarma therapies, or diet changes recommended for managing Kushta Roga naturally? Lastly, does Kushta Roga have any connection with gut health and digestion? Some sources say that skin diseases are linked to Ama (toxins) in the body, and detoxification can help cure them. What are the best Ayurvedic detox remedies for treating skin disorders from within? If anyone has experience or knowledge about Kushta Roga in Ayurveda, please share your insights! I’d love to know the best Ayurvedic treatments for chronic and mild skin conditions.

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Dr Sujal Patil

Experience of 14 years in clinical and research field of Ayurveda. I am a Science based evidence based Ayurveda practitioner and incorporate accurate diet regimen and minimal medication in my practice with faster results sans no side effects.

179 days ago

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Kushta Roga in Ayurveda: Meaning, Types & Treatment
1. English Name of Kushta Roga

Kushta Roga is a broad Ayurvedic term for skin diseases.
It does not refer only to leprosy but includes conditions like eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, vitiligo, fungal infections, and chronic skin disorders.
2. Types of Kushta Roga in Ayurveda

(A) Maha Kushta (Major Skin Diseases – Deep & Chronic)
These affect deeper tissues and are difficult to cure. Examples:

Kushtha (Leprosy) – Mycobacterial infection
Kitibha (Psoriasis) – Dry, scaly skin with redness
Shvitra (Vitiligo) – Loss of skin pigmentation
Vicharchika (Eczema) – Itchy, inflamed skin
(B) Kshudra Kushta (Minor Skin Diseases – Superficial & Mild)
Less severe and affect only the upper layers of the skin. Examples:

Dadru (Ringworm) – Fungal infection with circular patches
Pama (Scabies) – Itchy, red rashes due to mites
Vyanga (Hyperpigmentation) – Dark patches on the skin
Shatadhauta (Acne) – Pimple outbreaks
3. Ayurvedic Cause: Tridosha Imbalance

Vata imbalance → Dry, cracked, scaly skin diseases (Psoriasis, eczema).
Pitta imbalance → Inflammatory, red, burning conditions (Urticaria, acne).
Kapha imbalance → Oily, sticky, fungal skin issues (Ringworm, dermatitis).
Ama (Toxins) → Poor digestion creates toxins, leading to skin disorders.
✅ Best Ayurvedic Remedies for Balancing Doshas:

Vata skin issues → Use Sesame oil, Ghee, Ashwagandha.
Pitta skin issues → Use Neem, Sandalwood, Aloe Vera, Cooling herbs.
Kapha skin issues → Use Turmeric, Manjistha, Triphala.
4. Best Ayurvedic Treatments for Kushta Roga

(A) Herbs for Skin Healing:

Neem (Nimba) – Anti-inflammatory, clears toxins.
Manjistha – Blood purifier, good for eczema & acne.
Turmeric (Haridra) – Antiseptic, reduces redness.
Aloe Vera (Kumari) – Soothes and hydrates skin.
(B) Panchakarma Therapies: (For chronic conditions)

Vamana (Therapeutic Emesis) – Removes excess Kapha.
Virechana (Purgation Therapy) – Detoxes Pitta-based skin diseases.
Raktamokshana (Bloodletting) – Purifies blood for skin health.
(C) Ayurvedic Diet for Skin Health:
✅ Recommended:

Fresh fruits, leafy greens, nuts, seeds.
Warm water with Triphala for gut cleansing.
Herbal teas (Neem, Turmeric, Ginger).
❌ Avoid:

Fried, oily, and spicy foods.
Dairy, processed foods, and excessive sugar.
Alcohol, smoking, and stress.
5. Connection Between Gut Health & Skin Diseases

Poor digestion (Mandagni) → Toxin buildup (Ama) → Kushta Roga.
Detoxification and liver cleansing are key to curing skin problems.
✅ Best Ayurvedic Detox Remedies:

Triphala Powder – Cleanses gut and improves digestion.
Amla (Indian Gooseberry) – High in Vitamin C, purifies blood.
Guggulu – Removes toxins and reduces inflammation.
Panchakarma Detox – Flushes out toxins from the body.

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Dr. Ayush Varma

Graduating with an MD in Ayurvedic Medicine from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in 2008, he brings over 15 years of expertise in integrative healthcare. Specializing in complex chronic conditions, including autoimmune disorders, metabolic syndromes, and digestive health, he uses a patient-centered approach that focuses on root causes. Certified in Panchakarma Therapy and Rasayana (rejuvenation), he is known for combining traditional Ayurvedic practices with modern diagnostics. Actively involved in research, he has contributed to studies on Ayurveda’s role in managing diabetes, stress, and immunity. A sought-after speaker at wellness conferences, he practices at a reputable Ayurvedic wellness center, dedicated to advancing Ayurveda’s role in holistic health and preventive care.

66 days ago

4.95

You've dug deep into Ayurveda, that's for sure! So, about Kushta Roga—it's a pretty broad term in Ayurveda for skin diseases. While historically, yes, it often referred to leprosy, it's not just that. Over time it has come to cover a range of skin issues, from chronic conditions like eczema, psoriasis, to infections and even something like fungal infections. 

Now, regarding the classifications you've mentioned: Maha Kushta are those nasty, chronic types—leprosy falls under this for example, but also severe psoriasis. Kshudra Kushta, on the other hand, takes in milder skin issues like rashes or pigmentation changes. Not everything is straightforward, modern interpretations vary a bit based on how people understand those ancient texts.

Tridosha imbalances, yeah, they're the culprits most of the time. Pitta imbalance does indeed lead to inflamed, hot conditions, while Kapha might cause that oily, sticky feeling. For balancing these doshas, Neem and Turmeric are classic go-tos—anti-inflammatory and cooling! Aloe Vera, of course, is soothing and moisturizing. 

Herbal aids don't stop there, though! Guduchi and Manjistha are great for purifying blood and balancing Pitta. As for Panchakarma, therapies like Virechana (purification) and Raktamokshana (bloodletting) could be useful, but best under a practitioner's eye.

Let's not forget the gut, because, yes, Ama, those pesky toxins, play a big role. In Ayurveda, we say poor digestion can bring a range of issues, including skin troubles. Following a lighter, easier-to-digest diet like khichari can support detox. Triphala, a powerful triplet of herbs, is often used to ignite Agni (digestive fire) and clear Ama.

When treating Kushta Roga naturally, also look into regular warm baths with Neem leaves—classic advice. Keep your meals sattvic—simple, nutritious, no extremes—remember, what we eat shows up on our skin. And hydration, so important, keep that water flowin'!

Essentially, Ayurveda likes to see everything in a full circle, it's not just about surface solutions. Find that balance, nurture your gut, smash those toxins, and skin should start reflecting the goodness.

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