Psoriasis Causes and Aetiology

• Genetic Factors: Family history of psoriasis increases the risk.
• Immune System: Autoimmune response that triggers rapid skin cell production.
• Environmental Factors: Exposure to triggers such as infections, skin injuries, and certain medications.
• Lifestyle Factors: Poor diet, stress, and unhealthy habits like smoking.

Psoriasis Symptoms and Signs

• Red Patches: Inflamed areas covered with silvery scales.
• Dry, Cracked Skin: May bleed.
• Itching and Burning: Affected areas can be itchy or painful.
• Thickened Nails: Pitting or ridges in the nails.
• Swollen Joints: Psoriatic arthritis can cause joint pain and swelling.

Diagnosis for Psoriasis

• Physical Examination: Dermatologist examines the skin.
• Medical History: Assessment of family history and symptoms.
• Skin Biopsy: Taking a small sample of skin for laboratory analysis.

Types of Psoriasis

Plaque Psoriasis

• Description: Plaque psoriasis is the most common form of psoriasis, affecting about 80-90% of people with the condition.
• Characteristics: This type is characterized by raised, red patches of skin covered with a silvery white buildup of dead skin cells, known as scale. The plaques can be itchy and painful, and they sometimes crack and bleed.
• Common Areas Affected: Scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back.
• Symptoms: Dry, cracked skin that may bleed, itching, burning, soreness around patches, and thickened, pitted, or ridged nails.

Guttate Psoriasis

• Description: Guttate psoriasis is the second most common type of psoriasis and often starts in childhood or young adulthood.
• Characteristics: This type presents as small, dot-like lesions. The lesions are usually not as thick as plaque psoriasis.
• Common Areas Affected: Trunk, arms, legs, and sometimes the scalp.
• Triggers: Often triggered by bacterial infections like strep throat.
• Symptoms: Small, red spots on the skin, often widespread, and sometimes accompanied by itching.

Inverse Psoriasis

• Description: Inverse psoriasis, also known as flexural psoriasis, appears in skin folds.
• Characteristics: This type is characterized by smooth, red lesions that are shiny and inflamed but do not have the typical scale seen in plaque psoriasis.
• Common Areas Affected: Armpits, under the breasts, groin, and around the genitals and buttocks.
• Triggers: Often aggravated by friction and sweating.
• Symptoms: Red, shiny lesions in skin folds, which can be very uncomfortable due to their location.

Pustular Psoriasis

• Description: Pustular psoriasis is a rare and severe form of psoriasis that causes white pustules (blisters of noninfectious pus) surrounded by red skin.
• Characteristics: This type can be localized, commonly on the hands and feet, or widespread.
• Common Areas Affected: Hands, feet, and sometimes widespread over the body.
• Symptoms: Red, tender skin with pus-filled blisters that can cause fever, chills, severe itching, and fatigue.

Erythrodermic Psoriasis

• Description: Erythrodermic psoriasis is a particularly severe form of psoriasis that affects most of the body surface.
• Characteristics: This type is characterized by widespread, fiery redness of the skin and the shedding of scales in sheets.
• Common Areas Affected: Covers large areas or even the entire body.
• Triggers: Severe sunburn, infections, certain medications, and discontinuing systemic psoriasis treatment.
• Symptoms: Severe redness and shedding of the skin, itching, burning, increased heart rate, and changes in body temperature regulation, which can lead to dangerous complications.

Prevention and Home Remedies for Psoriasis

• Maintain a Healthy Diet: Include anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Proper Skincare Routine: Moisturize regularly and use gentle, non-irritating products.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep the skin hydrated.
• Avoid Triggers: Identify and avoid factors that trigger flare-ups.
• Natural Remedies: Use ingredients like turmeric, neem, and aloe vera for their anti-inflammatory and healing properties.

Yoga for Skin Health

• Pranayama (Breathing Exercises): Improves oxygen supply and reduces stress.
• Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation): Enhances blood circulation and detoxification.
• Shavasana (Corpse Pose): Promotes relaxation and overall well-being.

Ayurvedic Treatment Options for Psoriasis

Panchakarma Therapy

A detoxification process to cleanse the body and balance the doshas.

• Vamana (Emesis Therapy): Induced vomiting to expel toxins.
• Virechana (Purgation Therapy): Cleansing the bowels using herbal laxatives.
• Basti (Medicated Enema): Administering herbal oils and decoctions through the rectum.
• Nasya (Nasal Administration): Clearing head channels by administering medicated oils through the nose.
• Raktamokshana (Bloodletting Therapy): Removing impure blood to improve circulation and reduce inflammation.

Abhyanga (Oil Massage)

Therapeutic full-body massage using warm herbal oils to improve skin health.

• Procedure: Application of warm herbal oil followed by a synchronized massage.
• Duration: Typically 60 to 90 minutes.

Benefits: Enhances circulation, nourishes the skin, and promotes detoxification.

Lepam (Herbal Paste Application)

Application of herbal pastes on the affected areas to reduce inflammation and promote healing.

• Procedure: Herbal paste is applied and left to dry before washing off.
• Duration: Varies based on the condition and severity.

Benefits: Reduces inflammation, soothes the skin, and accelerates healing.

Herbal Remedies

Use of Ayurvedic herbs to treat psoriasis.

• Neem (Azadirachta Indica): Antibacterial and antifungal properties.
• Turmeric (Curcuma Longa): Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
• Aloe Vera: Soothes and moisturizes the skin.
• Manjistha (Rubia Cordifolia): Purifies blood and promotes healthy skin.

Benefits: Natural healing, reduces inflammation, and improves skin health.

Diet and Lifestyle Modifications

Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of diet and lifestyle in managing psoriasis.

• Diet: Fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid processed foods, excessive sugar, and unhealthy fats.
• Lifestyle: Regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management techniques like yoga and meditation.

Benefits: Enhances overall health, supports skin healing, and prevents future psoriasis flare-ups.

Q:What are the Ayurvedic treatments for psoriasis?

A:Ayurvedic treatments for psoriasis include Panchakarma therapy, Abhyanga, Lepam, herbal remedies, and dietary and lifestyle modifications to detoxify the body, improve immunity, and promote healthy skin.

Q:How effective is Ayurveda in treating psoriasis?

A:Ayurveda is highly effective in treating psoriasis as it focuses on natural healing, detoxification, and balancing the body’s doshas, leading to long-lasting improvements in skin health.

Q:Can diet and lifestyle changes help with psoriasis?

A:Yes, diet and lifestyle changes are crucial in managing psoriasis. A healthy diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management can significantly improve skin health and prevent future flare-ups.

Q:What are some common Ayurvedic herbs used for psoriasis treatment?

A:Common Ayurvedic herbs for psoriasis treatment include Neem, Turmeric, Aloe Vera, and Manjistha, known for their anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and healing properties.

Q:How does Panchakarma therapy help in treating psoriasis?

A:Panchakarma therapy helps in treating psoriasis by detoxifying the body, balancing the doshas, and improving overall health, leading to clearer and healthier skin.