Eczema types – How does Ayurveda treat different forms of eczema?

Question

For the past several years, I’ve struggled with eczema, and it never seems to go away completely. Some days, my skin is just a little dry, but other times, I get red, inflamed patches that itch like crazy. I’ve noticed that my symptoms change depending on the weather, stress levels, and even my diet.

When I saw a dermatologist, they told me there are different eczema types, but they mostly prescribed steroid creams that only provide temporary relief. I don’t want to rely on steroids forever, so I started researching Ayurveda to see if there’s a way to treat eczema naturally. I read that Ayurveda doesn’t just look at eczema as a skin problem but as a sign of internal imbalances—possibly related to Pitta, Vata, or Kapha doshas.

Can Ayurveda explain the different eczema types and what causes them? Is dry, flaky eczema a sign of excess Vata, while red, inflamed eczema is more of a Pitta issue? What about oozing or thickened skin—does that mean there’s a Kapha imbalance?

Also, are there Ayurvedic herbs or remedies that can heal eczema at the root? I’ve heard about Neem, Turmeric, and Aloe Vera, but I don’t know if they work for all eczema types or if certain ones are better for specific symptoms. Should I also be making dietary changes to prevent flare-ups?

I’d love to hear from anyone who has successfully treated eczema using Ayurveda. What worked for you, and how long did it take to see results?

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

Eczema in Ayurveda is considered as "Vicharchika," a manifestation of underlying dosha imbalances. Dry, flaky eczema is linked to Vata dosha, causing roughness and intense itching, while red, inflamed eczema is due to excess Pitta, leading to burning sensations. Thickened, oozing skin points to a Kapha imbalance, resulting in heaviness and sluggish healing. Healing eczema naturally requires internal detoxification (Shodhana) and external soothing therapies. Neem, Manjishtha, and Turmeric purify the blood and reduce inflammation, while Aloe Vera and Coconut oil calm irritated skin. Gandhak Rasayana and Khadirarishta are beneficial for chronic cases. A Pitta-pacifying diet, avoiding spicy, sour, and processed foods, is crucial to prevent flare-ups. Hydrating with warm herbal teas like Yashtimadhu (Licorice) helps soothe aggravated Vata. Regular abhyanga (oil massage) with medicated oils like Mahamarichyadi Taila can provide relief. Panchakarma therapies like Virechana (purification through herbal purgation) can address deep-rooted imbalances for long-term healing. Ayurveda works gradually, but with consistent dietary and lifestyle changes, visible improvements can be seen in a few months.

Dr Sujal Patil · Answer

Ayurveda views eczema (Vicharchika) as a disorder caused by internal imbalances, particularly in the Vata, Pitta, or Kapha doshas. Each type of eczema has different characteristics—Vata-type eczema leads to dry, flaky, and cracked skin due to excess dryness in the body. Pitta-type eczema presents as red, inflamed, and burning rashes, often aggravated by heat, spicy foods, and stress. Kapha-type eczema is characterized by thick, oozing, or swollen skin, worsened by damp conditions and sluggish digestion. Identifying the dominant dosha imbalance helps in selecting the right Ayurvedic remedies for long-term healing.

To address eczema at its root, Ayurveda emphasizes blood purification and detoxification. Herbs like Neem, Manjistha, and Turmeric are highly effective in cleansing the blood and reducing inflammation. Aloe Vera is soothing and cooling, making it beneficial for Pitta-related eczema. Applying coconut oil, turmeric paste, or neem oil can help reduce irritation, while Triphala and Guduchi support internal detoxification. For dry, Vata-type eczema, nourishing oils like Sesame oil and Ghee restore moisture and improve skin health.

Diet plays a crucial role in managing eczema. Ayurveda recommends avoiding dairy, sugar, fried, and processed foods, as they can aggravate inflammation and toxin buildup. Instead, incorporating bitter, cooling, and detoxifying foods like leafy greens, pomegranates, turmeric-spiced meals, and healthy fats (ghee, avocados) can support skin healing. Drinking herbal teas like Brahmi or Ashwagandha helps manage stress, which is a common eczema trigger. Hydration and proper digestion are key to preventing toxin accumulation that worsens skin conditions.

In addition to diet and herbs, Ayurvedic therapies like Abhyanga (self-massage with medicated oils) and Panchakarma detox can help restore balance. Regular oil massage with coconut or sesame oil soothes dry skin and prevents flare-ups. Practicing stress management through yoga, meditation, and deep breathing also plays a crucial role in preventing eczema relapses. Since Ayurveda focuses on treating the root cause, results take time, but they provide sustainable relief without the side effects of steroids. Have you noticed any specific triggers, such as weather, foods, or stress, that worsen your eczema? Identifying them can help create a more personalized Ayurvedic approach.

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