Introduction
Eczema is a skin condition characterized by itchiness, flaking of the skin, inflammation of the dermal tissue, redness, and a mild burning sensation. It is also called atopic dermatitis.
As per Ayurvedic ideology, eczema is known as "Shudra Kushta" or “Vicharchika”. It occurs due to the vitiation of Pitta Dosha and Kapha Dosha.
Ayurvedic treatment for eczema not only focuses on eczema but also it focuses on the person as a whole. Personalized treatment is given to each individual which thoroughly depends on the constitution (Prakriti) of the patient.
Understanding Eczema and its Causes
Eczema is caused by a disturbed balance of the Pitta Dosha and Kapha Dosha in the body, which results in the accumulation of toxins (Ama) and impurities in the skin. The main reasons for eczema are as follows:
• Digestive Issues: According to Ayurveda, improper digestion plays a noteworthy role in eczema. When food is not properly digested, it generates toxins that accumulate in the body and contribute to eczema. This toxin accumulation, known as Ama, impairs the purity of the blood.
• Weakened Immune System: Weak immunity can make the body more susceptible to skin disorders, including eczema.
• Poor Dietary Habits and Lifestyle: Unhealthy dietary choices, such as irregular meal timings (Ahar Hetu) aggravates Pitta Dosha, and unhealthy lifestyle practices (Vihar Hetu), including alcohol consumption, smoking, and tobacco use, can exacerbate the Pitta Dosha and contribute to eczema.
• Stress and Anxiety: Mental well-being concerns like depression, anxiety, anger, stress, and negative emotions (Achara Hetu) can disturb the dosha balance, particularly the Vata Dosha, resulting in skin dryness and irritation.
• Excessive Heat in the Body: Pitta Dosha is associated with body heat, and an excessive Pitta can cause inflammation and skin irritation, leading to eczema.
• Environmental Aspects: Exposure to harsh chemicals or allergens in the environment can aggravate eczema symptoms in certain individuals.
By understanding these elements, Ayurvedic treatments aim to restore the balance of the doshas, detoxify the body, improve digestion, strengthen the immune system, and reduce stress levels. This all-around approach of Ayurveda addresses the root causes of eczema and promotes long-term healing and relief from symptoms.
Symptoms of Eczema
Eczema is a common skin condition that can lead to a variety of symptoms which are as follows:
• Dry and Itchy Skin: One of the main symptoms of eczema is dryness of the skin. The affected areas feel scaly, rough, scaly, or flaky. This dryness frequently leads to itching at extreme level, which can be persistent also.
• Redness and Inflammation: Patches of red, inflamed skin can be seen. The affected areas appear swollen, irritated, or sensitive to touch.
• Rash and Bumps: Eczema usually presents with a rash characterized by small bumps, known as papules. These papules can cluster together, forming raised patches on the skin.
• Thickened or Scaly Skin: Over the span of time, chronic eczema can lead to thickening or hardening of the affected area of the skin. The skin can look like a leathery texture or become scaly.
• Pain: It is a painful condition and can cause discomfort, ranging from mild irritation to soreness. Scratching the itchy skin can worsen the pain and lead to open sores or secondary infections.
Recognizing and managing eczema symptoms is essential for effective treatment. Early intervention can help prevent the worsening of symptoms, and reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups.
Benefits of Ayurvedic Treatment for Eczema
Eczema treatment in Ayurveda follows a holistic treatment approach to healing. The treatment has calming effects on the body, mind, and soul. The ayurvedic treatment uses natural components derived from plants, herbs, and minerals. Ayurveda helps in the detoxification of the body.
Moreover, Ayurvedic herbs have been used for centuries and have tremendous power to heal several skin diseases as they have anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, and skin-soothing properties and enhance skin health. In Addition, Ayurveda stops the recurrence of the disease by treating it from the root cause and gives benefits in the long term.
Ayurvedic treatments encourage stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga asana, and breathing exercises.
Ayurvedic Treatment Options for Eczema
Ayurvedic treatment for eczema generally involves a combination of Ayurvedic herbs and Panchakarma, along with dietary and lifestyle modifications.
Ayurvedic Herbs
Depending on the severity of eczema, Ayurvedic herbs can be taken in the form of powders, or tablets. Ayurvedic herbs have a soothing and calming effect on the skin. They can help soothe itching, irritation, and discomfort caused by eczema.
Some Ayurvedic herbs have antimicrobial and antifungal properties. They can help prevent or treat secondary infections due to eczema-related skin damage. They promote skin healing and regeneration. They can aid in repairing damaged skin, reducing scarring, and promoting healthy skin cell growth.
Panchakarma
Panchakarma is a detoxification and rejuvenation therapy in Ayurveda. It involves a series of cleansing procedures to remove toxins from the body. Panchakarma treatments like Vamana (emesis) and Virechana (purgation) are recommended by experts to cleanse the body and reduce the dosha imbalances associated with eczema.
For a personalized treatment plan, a person suffering from eczema should consult an Ayurvedic practitioner who examines the patient and prescribes the plan of treatment according to the individual constitution and severity of symptoms.
Ayurvedic Lifestyle Changes for Eczema Treatment
Ayurveda emphasizes detoxification and cleansing to eliminate toxins from the body. Ayurveda highlights the significance of a balanced diet and lifestyle for optimal health. Ayurvedic treatment strives to provide long-term relief and management of eczema by managing the imbalance of doshas in the body. It focuses on strengthening the immune system, boosting healthy digestion, and nourishing the skin.
Maintaining a proper sleeping pattern keeps a person away from stress and has immense benefits for radiant skin. Ayurvedic eczema treatment gives importance to practicing yoga asanas and meditation to stay active and fit. It increases blood circulation as well as improves overall health.
Ayurvedic Dietary Recommendations for Eczema Treatment
Ayurveda gives importance to diet for eczema recovery. Some of the dietary changes diet for atopic dermatitis (eczema) are as follows:
• Ayurveda stresses mindful eating habits to support digestion. Chew your food completely, and eat in a relaxed and calm environment.
• Eat foods with natural anti-inflammatory properties in your diet.
• Eczema is usually due to excess heat in the body, especially the Pitta dosha. To balance this, include cooling foods in your diet such as fresh fruits and fresh vegetables.
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day to maintain hydration and support healthy skin. Additionally, you can also drink herbal teas.
• Eating a clean diet will promote healing and will eliminate toxins from the body, so include spices from the kitchen in your diet.
Foods to avoid with eczema
• Excessive amounts of salty and sugary food products or drinks should be avoided.
• Avoid overeating.
• Spicy and acidic foods can aggravate Pitta dosha and contribute to inflammation. Limit or avoid foods that flare-ups eczema.
• Avoiding Stale food is highly recommended.
• Avoiding processed food along with alcohol and smoking is important.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, Ayurveda's emphasis on balancing the doshas, detoxifying the body, and strengthening the immune system contributes to its effectiveness in addressing eczema. Moreover, the natural and safe nature of Ayurvedic treatment makes it a preferred choice for many individuals. Overall, Ayurvedic treatment offers a thorough and individualized approach to eczema management, focusing on long-term relief and overall health.
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