Ayurvedic Treatment for Eczema: Eczema, also known as Atopic Dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition characterized by red, itchy, and inflamed skin. It can be uncomfortable and even painful, causing distress to those who suffer from it. While there are many conventional treatments for eczema, they often come with side effects and only provide temporary relief. Ayurveda, an ancient Indian healing system, offers a natural approach to Ayurvedic treatment for eczema that focuses on addressing the root cause of the condition. According to Ayurvedic principles, eczema (known as Vicharchika) is primarily caused by imbalances in the doshas and the accumulation of toxins (ama) in the body.
Adyant Ayurveda is a top Ayurvedic Hospital in Bangalore that offers effective Ayurvedic treatments for a range of health conditions, including eczema. Their team of highly qualified Ayurvedic doctors provides personalized treatment plans that are tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
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Types of Eczema
| Types of Eczema | Explanation |
| Atopic Dermatitis | This is also called Eczema in Babies, often starting in childhood and associated with allergies and asthma and commonly characterized by dry, itchy skin |
| Contact Dermatitis | When the skin comes into contact with irritants or allergens it shows symptoms like redness, itching, and swelling. |
| Dyshidrotic Eczema | Causes small, itchy blisters on the hand and feet. Often triggered by stress and allergies or moist environments |
| Nummular Eczema | Appears as circular, coin-shaped patches on the skin, often associated with dry skin, and can be triggered by irritation or insect bites. |
| Seborrheic Dermatitis | Commonly affects oily areas like the scalp and face, leading to red, scaly patches. It can occur in infants (cradle cap) and adults |
| Neurodermatitis | Characterized by thick, scaly patches on the skin that develop from repeated scratching or rubbing. |
| Stasis Dermatitis | This develops when fluid builds up in the lower legs, usually due to poor circulation. It results in swelling, redness, and itching. |
| Seborrheic Eczema | Related to oily skin: Common in areas with more oil glands, like the scalp, face, and upper back, leading to flaky, greasy patches. |
Ayurvedic Treatment for Eczema: Symptoms of Eczema
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that can cause a range of symptoms. It is very necessary to know the Symptoms of Eczema before Ayurvedic treatment for Eczema. The symptoms are listed below:
- Dry, itchy skin: Intense itching is one of the most common and bothersome symptoms of eczema. The itching can be severe and lead to scratching, which can further irritate and damage the skin.
- Red, inflamed skin: Eczema can cause the skin to become red, swollen, and inflamed, particularly during flare-ups.
- Rashes: Eczema often presents as rashes or patches of irritated skin that can vary in size, shape, and appearance.
- Scaly or crusty patches: In some cases, eczema can cause the skin to develop scaly or crusty patches, which may be particularly noticeable on the hands, feet, or scalp.
- Oozing or weeping: When eczema is severe, the inflamed skin may ooze or weep a clear or yellowish fluid, which can crust over and form scabs.
- Thickened, leathery skin: Chronic or untreated eczema can make the skin thickened and leathery, particularly in areas that are frequently scratched or rubbed.
- Skin discoloration: Eczema can cause the affected skin to become discolored, appearing darker or lighter than the surrounding skin.
- Cracked or blistered skin: In some cases, eczema can cause the skin to crack or develop small, fluid-filled blisters.
- Sleep disturbances: The intense itching associated with eczema can disrupt sleep, leading to fatigue and irritability.
The symptoms of eczema can vary from person to person and may also depend on the specific type of eczema, the age of the individual, and the severity of the condition. Additionally, eczema is often associated with other conditions, such as allergies, asthma, and hay fever.
What is Eczema According to Ayurveda? /Causes of Eczema according to Ayurveda/ Eczema Ayurveda Dosha
According to Ayurveda, eczema is a type of Kushtha, a broad term used to describe various skin diseases or disorders. Ayurvedic texts classify eczema under the category of Kshudra Kushtha, which refers to minor or less severe forms of skin diseases.
In Ayurvedic principles, eczema is believed to be caused by an imbalance of the three doshas (biological energies) – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha – along with the accumulation of toxins (Ama) in the body. The specific dosha imbalance and the underlying cause may vary depending on the individual’s constitution (Prakriti) and the type of eczema.
Dosha Imbalances:
- Vata Imbalance: Excess Vata can lead to dry, rough, and cracked skin, causing intense itching.
- Pitta Imbalance: Aggravated Pitta can result in inflammation, redness, and burning sensations in the skin.
- Kapha Imbalance: Excess Kapha can cause thickening of the skin, oozing, and chronic recurrence of symptoms.
- Accumulation of Ama (Toxins):
- Impaired digestion (Agni) leads to the production of ama, which can accumulate in the body’s tissues, including the skin.
- When ama mixes with sweat and sebum on the skin, it can clog pores and lead to inflammation.
- Dietary Factors:
- Consumption of incompatible food combinations (Viruddhahara)
- Excessive intake of spicy, sour, salty, and fermented foods
- Overconsumption of dairy products, especially for Kapha types
- Lifestyle Factors:
- Irregular eating habits
- Lack of proper sleep
- Excessive exposure to environmental pollutants
- Chronic stress and emotional imbalances
- Genetic Predisposition:
- Ayurveda recognizes that some individuals may have a genetic tendency towards skin conditions like eczema.
- Weakened Immune System:
- In Ayurveda, this is often related to depleted Ojas (vital essence), which can make the skin more susceptible to irritants and allergens.
- Environmental Factors:
- Exposure to extreme weather conditions, particularly cold and dry environments that aggravate Vata
- Contact with irritants or allergens in the environment
- Suppression of Natural Urges:
- Ayurveda believes that suppressing natural urges like sweating can lead to the accumulation of toxins in the body.
- Improper Skincare:
- Use of harsh soaps or excessive bathing, which can strip the skin of its natural oils
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Ayurvedic Treatment for Eczema: Ayurvedic view
Ayurvedic Treatment for Eczema includes balancing the doshas. In the Ayurvedic view eczema is 3 types which are listed below:
Vata type: When Vata dosha is predominant, eczema may present with dry, rough, and cracked skin, along with excessive itching and burning sensations.
Pitta type: If Pitta dosha is aggravated, eczema may manifest as red, inflamed, and oozing skin lesions, accompanied by heat, burning, and irritation.
Kapha type: An imbalance in Kapha dosha can lead to thick, sticky, and oozing eczema lesions, often with excessive itching and a tendency for the condition to recur.
Additionally, Ayurveda considers factors like improper digestion (Agni dushti), accumulation of toxins (Ama), stress, and improper lifestyle choices as contributing factors to the development of eczema.
The approach for Ayurvedic treatment for Eczema in Ayurveda aims to address the root cause of the imbalance, eliminate toxins, and restore the balance of the doshas through a combination of dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, herbal remedies, and specialized therapies like Panchakarma (detoxification and rejuvenation treatments).
Role of Panchakarma in Ayurvedic Treatment for Eczema
Panchakarma plays an important role in the Ayurvedic Treatment for Eczema (Kushtha or Kitibha in Ayurveda). Here’s how Panchakarma treatment can help in treating eczema:
- Detoxification (Shodhana)
- Procedures like Vamana (therapeutic vomiting) and Virechana (purgation) help eliminate toxins (ama) and imbalanced doshas that contribute to eczema. These are the Best Ayurveda therapies for eczema
- Basti (medicated enemas) helps in cleansing the gastrointestinal tract and rectifying Vata dosha imbalance, which is a common factor in eczema.
- Purification (Shodhana)
- Raktamokshana (bloodletting) helps in purifying the blood and removing toxins that can aggravate skin conditions like eczema.
- Nasya (nasal administration of medicated oils/herbal preparations) helps in purifying the head and neck region, which is important in certain types of eczema.
- Oleation (Snehana) and Sudation (Swedana)
- Abhyanga (oil massage) and Swedana therapies help in reducing dryness, itching, and inflammation associated with eczema.
- They also help in softening and eliminating toxins from the body, which can contribute to eczema flare-ups.
- Rejuvenation (Rasayana): Rasayana therapies, such as Basti and Nasya with rejuvenating herbal formulations, help in improving overall health, enhancing immunity, and promoting skin health.
- Stress Reduction: Therapies like Shirodhara (pouring of warm medicated oil on the forehead) and Dhara (pouring of medicated liquids) help in reducing stress and promoting relaxation, which can be beneficial in managing eczema flare-ups.
Read More: Panchakarma Treatment
Ayurvedic Diagnosis Process for Eczema. How Adyant Ayurveda Diagnoses Eczema?
In Ayurveda, the diagnosis of eczema (Vicharchika) and determination of dosha imbalances involves a comprehensive assessment process known as Rogi-Roga Pareeksha. This process includes several steps:
1. Trividha Pareeksha (Three-fold Examination)
a) Darshana (Observation)
- Visual examination of the skin lesions
- Observation of the patient’s body type, movements, and general appearance
b) Sparshana (Palpation)
- Touching the affected areas to assess texture, temperature, and sensitivity
- Checking for dryness, oiliness, or roughness of the skin
c) Prashna (Questioning)
- Detailed history-taking, including:
- Onset and progression of symptoms
- Family history of skin conditions
- Dietary habits and lifestyle factors
- Emotional state and stress levels
2. Ashtasthana Pareeksha (Eight-fold Examination)
A. Nadi (Pulse Diagnosis)
- Assessing the pulse to determine dominant dosha and any imbalances
B. Mootra (Urine Examination)
- Checking color, odor, and consistency of urine
C. Mala (Stool Examination)
- Assessing bowel habits and stool characteristics
D. Jihva (Tongue Examination)
- Observing tongue color, coating, and texture
E. Shabda (Voice and Speech Analysis)
- Noting any changes in voice quality or speech patterns
F. Sparsha (Skin and Body Temperature)
- Assessing overall body temperature and skin texture
G. Drik (Eye Examination)
- Observing eye color, luster, and any abnormalities
H. Akriti (Overall Appearance)
- Evaluating body build, posture, and general appearance
3. Dosha Assessment
Based on the above examinations, the practitioner determines which dosha(s) are imbalanced:
- Vata dominance: Dry, rough, cracked skin with intense itching
- Pitta dominance: Red, inflamed skin with burning sensations
- Kapha dominance: Thick, oily skin with oozing and persistent itching
4. Samprapti (Pathogenesis) Analysis
The practitioner analyzes how the disease has progressed:
- Identifying the root cause (Nidana)
- Understanding the path of disease development (Samprapti)
- Assessing which dhatus (tissues) are affected
5. Complementary Diagnostic Methods
- Prakriti Assessment: Determining the patient’s natural constitution
- Vikriti Assessment: Evaluating the current state of imbalance
- Agni Assessment: Checking the strength of digestive fire
- Ama Assessment: Identifying signs of toxin accumulation
6. Modern Diagnostic Tools
While not traditional to Ayurveda, many practitioners may also use:
- Skin prick tests for allergies
- Blood tests to rule out other conditions
- Skin scrapings or biopsies if needed
Conclusion of Diagnosis
After completing these assessments, the Ayurvedic practitioner will:
- Confirm the diagnosis of eczema (Vicharchika)
- Determine the predominant dosha imbalance
- Identify any underlying causes or contributing factors
- Assess the stage and severity of the condition
This comprehensive diagnosis forms the basis for creating a personalized treatment plan that addresses both the symptoms and root causes of eczema according to Ayurvedic principles.
Best Ayurvedic Treatment for Eczema
In Ayurveda, for Ayurvedic treatment for Eczema, It is necessary to balance the Pitta dosha, which is responsible for regulating metabolism and digestion. When Pitta is out of balance, it can cause inflammation in the body, including the skin, leading to eczema.
The approach for Ayurvedic treatment for eczema involves identifying the root cause of the condition and addressing it through dietary and lifestyle changes, herbal remedies, and various Ayurvedic treatments.
Dietary and Lifestyle Changes
Dietary and lifestyle changes play a crucial role in the Ayurvedic treatment of eczema. Patients are advised to avoid foods that aggravate the Pitta dosha, such as spicy and sour foods, alcohol, and caffeine. Instead, they are encouraged to eat a diet that is rich in cooling and nourishing foods, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats.
Lifestyle changes that can help manage eczema include practicing stress-reducing techniques like yoga and meditation, avoiding hot showers or baths, wearing loose, comfortable clothing, and avoiding exposure to harsh chemicals and irritants.
Herbal Remedies for Ayurvedic Treatment for Eczema
- Neem (Azadirachta indica): Renowned for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties, neem is widely used in the form of pastes, oils, or decoctions to alleviate eczema symptoms.
- Manjishtha (Rubia Cordifolia): This herb has potent blood-purifying and detoxifying properties, making it useful in treating eczema associated with toxin accumulation.
- Haridra (Curcuma longa): Commonly known as turmeric, Haridra is rich in curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, helping to reduce inflammation and itching. It also has Anti-allergic properties which help to recover
- Guduchi (Tinospora Cordifolia): This herb is known for its immune-modulating and anti-allergic properties, making it beneficial in managing eczema triggered by allergies.
- Aloe Vera (Kumari): The gel from the aloe vera plant is cooling and soothing, providing relief from itching and inflammation in eczema.
- Khadiradi Vati: This is used for skin disorders and can help reduce itching and inflammation.
Read Also: Ayurvedic Skin Care Treatment
Ayurvedic Treatments for Eczema
In addition to dietary and lifestyle changes and herbal remedies, Ayurvedic treatments can also be used to treat eczema. At Adyant Ayurveda, patients receive personalized Ayurvedic treatment plans that are tailored to their individual needs. The treatment process begins with an in-depth consultation with one of the clinic’s experienced Ayurvedic doctors, who will take the time to understand the patient’s medical history, lifestyle, and unique constitution.
Based on this information, the doctor will develop a personalized treatment plan that may include dietary and lifestyle changes, herbal remedies, and various Ayurvedic treatments.
Adyant Ayurveda offers a range of Panchakarma treatments in Bangalore that are designed to promote health and well-being.
Panchakarma, a series of Ayurvedic detoxification treatments, may be recommended to remove toxins (Ama) from the body. Therapies like Virechana (purgation) and Vamana (emesis) can help in eliminating accumulated toxins, which may be contributing to eczema.
- Abhyanga is a full-body massage that uses warm herbal oils to promote relaxation, improve circulation, and nourish the skin. This treatment can help soothe inflamed skin and reduce the symptoms of eczema.
- Shirodhara is a calming therapy that involves pouring warm herbal oil over the forehead in a continuous stream. This treatment can help reduce stress and promote relaxation, which can benefit patients with eczema.
- Nasya treatment involves the administration of herbal oil or powder into the nostrils. This treatment can help improve respiratory health and reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, which can benefit patients with eczema.
- Lepa (Herbal Pastes): Medicated pastes made from herbs like neem, haridra, and Manjishtha are applied topically to the affected areas to provide relief from itching, inflammation, and dryness.
Overall, Adyant Ayurveda provides patients with effective Ayurvedic treatments for eczema and a range of other health conditions. Their Best Ayurvedic Doctor for Skin in Bangalore and therapists offer personalized care and support to help patients achieve optimal health and well-being.
Read Also: Virechana Treatment
Effectiveness of Ayurvedic Treatments for Eczema
While large-scale clinical trials comparing Ayurvedic treatments to conventional treatments for eczema are limited, several studies have shown promising results for Ayurvedic approaches:
- Herbal Formulations:
- A 2013 study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that an Ayurvedic herbal formulation containing Wrightia Tinctoria reduced eczema symptoms by 50-75% in 86% of participants after 28 days of treatment.
- Panchakarma Therapy:
- A case series published in the International Journal of Ayurveda Research in 2011 reported that 82% of eczema patients showed significant improvement after undergoing Virechana (purgation therapy) followed by internal medications.
Conclusion
Eczema can be a frustrating and uncomfortable condition that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. However, Adyant Ayurveda, Bangalore, India offers a range of effective Ayurvedic treatments for Eczema that can help alleviate the symptoms of eczema and improve overall health and well-being. Adyant Ayurveda, the best Ayurvedic clinic in Bangalore, provides personalized and effective treatment for eczema and other health conditions.
Our team of experienced Ayurvedic doctors and therapists offers a range of treatments that are tailored to each patient’s unique needs, including Panchakarma, Abhyanga, Shirodhara, and Nasya. These treatments can help reduce inflammation, detoxify the body, and promote relaxation, all of which can be beneficial for patients with eczema.
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