What Is Psoriasis? Ayurvedic Perspective on Causes and Symptoms
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by red, inflamed patches on the skin, often covered with silvery-white scales. These patches may appear on the elbows, knees, scalp, lower back, or other parts of the body. In some cases, psoriasis can also affect the nails and joints, leading to discomfort and stiffness.
While modern medicine often manages psoriasis with topical creams and immune-modulating drugs, Ayurveda takes a deeper approach. It looks at the condition as an imbalance within the body and offers time-tested ways to bring it back into harmony. Let’s explore what psoriasis means in Ayurveda, its root causes, and how symptoms are understood through this traditional lens.
Psoriasis in Ayurveda
In Ayurveda, psoriasis is closely related to a condition called Kitibha, which is one of the types of Kushta (skin disorders). Kitibha is described as a condition involving dry, scaly, rough patches of skin with discoloration. This matches many of the visible symptoms of psoriasis in modern understanding.
According to Ayurvedic texts, the imbalance of Vata and Kapha doshas plays a major role in the development of skin diseases like psoriasis. Vata is responsible for dryness and roughness, while Kapha contributes to the thick, sticky quality of the scales. In some cases, Pitta (linked with heat and inflammation) is also involved, especially when the skin becomes red, itchy, or inflamed.
Causes of Psoriasis in Ayurveda
Ayurveda teaches that skin health is deeply connected to digestion, lifestyle, and the state of the mind. Psoriasis, being a deep-rooted disorder, is believed to develop due to improper diet, poor digestion, and accumulation of toxins (called Ama) in the body.
Some common Ayurvedic causes include:
Incompatible food combinations (like milk with salty or sour foods)
Heavy, oily, or processed foods that are difficult to digest
Irregular eating habits, late-night meals, or skipping meals
Suppression of natural urges, such as sneezing or bowel movements
Stress, anger, or anxiety, which disturb the mind-body balance
Excessive use of chemical-based skincare products
When digestion is weak, toxins build up in the body and circulate in the bloodstream. These toxins eventually lodge in the deeper tissues, including the skin, leading to conditions like psoriasis.
Symptoms of Psoriasis from the Ayurvedic Viewpoint
The symptoms of psoriasis are not limited to just the skin’s surface. Ayurveda recognizes that a disorder like Kitibha affects both the physical and energetic layers of the body.
Key symptoms include:
Thick, scaly skin patches that may crack and bleed
Dryness and roughness in the affected areas
Itching, burning, or stinging sensation
Discoloration of the skin – reddish, brown, or silvery-white
Involvement of the scalp or nails (brittle or pitted nails)
Joint pain or stiffness in some individuals
These symptoms are often aggravated during seasonal changes, especially in cold and dry weather, when Vata dosha tends to increase naturally.
The Ayurvedic Approach
Rather than just treating symptoms on the surface, Ayurveda focuses on balancing the doshas, improving digestion, and cleansing the body from within. A personalized approach is essential, as each individual’s constitution and condition may vary.
An Ayurvedic Treatment For Psoriasis of Skin typically includes:
Internal herbs to detoxify the blood and reduce inflammation
Panchakarma therapies such as Virechana (purgation) and Raktamokshana (bloodletting) to eliminate toxins
Medicinal oils and pastes applied externally to soften and soothe the skin
Dietary guidance to avoid triggers and promote better digestion
Stress-reducing practices like meditation, pranayama, and yoga
Final Words
Psoriasis is a complex condition that goes beyond the surface of the skin. Ayurveda provides a holistic view, treating it not just as a skin disorder but as a reflection of deeper imbalances in the body and mind. Through internal purification, herbal support, and a balanced lifestyle, the Ayurvedic Treatment For Psoriasis of Skin offers hope for long-term relief and healthier skin from within.
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