Nail psoriasis - #413

Hello Vanshika,Psoriasis, especially nail and scalp psoriasis, can be challenging to manage but can show improvement with consistent Ayurvedic treatment, dietary modifications, and lifestyle changes. For a 7-year-old, gentle, age-appropriate Ayurvedic therapies and a specific diet are key. Healing time varies, but noticeable improvement in symptoms may begin within 2-3 months, though longer adherence—potentially up to 6-12 months—is often necessary for sustained results. In Ayurveda, psoriasis is often linked to imbalances in Vata and Kapha doshas along with blood impurities (rakta dhatu), so treatment focuses on detoxification, diet, and herbal remedies like Gandhaka Rasayana, Khadira, and Turmeric. Dietary guidelines, such as avoiding sour, spicy, fried, and fermented foods, should be followed consistently, as these aggravate the symptoms. Warm, light foods that support digestion and herbs to purify the blood and soothe inflammation are beneficial. Psoriasis can indeed affect areas like the scalp and occasionally spread to the skin in the ears or even near the nose, as it may expand to sensitive skin areas. Regularly applying medicated oils like Jathyadi Taila and cleansing the affected areas can help manage these patches effectively.

Nail and scalp psoriasis can be real stubborn, and while I wish I could say there’s a quick fix, it’s not always the case. You’re dealing with a chronic condition so patience is key here. Ayurveda teaches us that healing is more like a marathon than a sprint, affected by a lot of factors - your dosha, lifestyle, stress levels, diet… the whole shebang.

For nail psoriasis, it could take several months before you notice significant improvements. We’re talking consistency here - with both diet and lifestyle changes. In terms of a diet, sticking to anti-inflammatory foods and reducing potential triggers can help. This means (ideally!!) avoiding processed foods, spicy stuff, or too much caffeine. Incorporate more fresh fruits, veggies, and whole grains into your diet. And yes, you ask how long… think long-term. You wanna aim for a nice life change instead of temporary.

Scalp psoriasis can sometimes be a bit quicker to show improvement, maybe a few weeks to several months, but again, everyone’s different! Massage a herbal oil like neem or coconut onto your scalp before washing it out, this can do wonders. Our focus is not just external but what’s happening with your internal digestion & stress too.

About psoriasis affecting the ear and nose… yep, it can. It’s not uncommon for it to extend past the scalp to areas like ears. It’s all interconnected, right? If you’re seeing symptoms like itchiness, redness or flaking there, it’s all part of the package. If it gets too severe or if it affects your hearing or breathing, definitely get a doc’s opinion.

Address stress through meditation or yoga as stress’s notorious for kicking psoriasis into high gear. It’s a whole-body approach, not just treating symptoms as they appear. Healing takes a bit of time, but it really is worth it at the end!