Psoriasis is more than a skin condition — it is a reflection of imbalance within the body. The red, scaly patches, itching, and discomfort often come hand in hand with emotional distress, making daily life challenging.
Ayurveda, the ancient science of life, approaches psoriasis not by masking symptoms, but by addressing the root cause and restoring harmony in the body.
Ayurvedic Principles of Management
Ayurvedic care for psoriasis focuses on three pillars:
- Cleansing the body of accumulated toxins
- Balancing the doshas
- Strengthening digestion and immunity to prevent recurrence
1. Panchakarma Therapies
Specialised detoxification therapies help eliminate deep-seated toxins and purify the blood
These treatments are tailored after assessing the patient’s constitution (Prakriti) and disease stage.
2. Internal Medicines
Herbs and formulations that detoxify, reduce inflammation, and restore skin health are selected according to dosha dominance
External Applications
Medicated oils and herbal pastes are applied to reduce scaling, soften the skin, and relieve itching
Regular gentle massage improves circulation and skin texture.
Diet & Lifestyle for Psoriasis
Ayurveda emphasises the importance of food and daily habits in healing skin disorders.
Avoid:
Incompatible food combinations (Viruddha Ahara) like milk with fish, curd with night meals
Oily, fried, fermented, and junk food
Excess sour and salty foodsIncompatible food combinations (Viruddha Ahara) like milk with fish, curd with night meals
Include:
Fresh green leafy vegetables
Bitter-tasting herbs like neem leaves, methi
Whole grains like barley and old rice
Warm water for drinking to aid digestion
Mind–Skin Connection
Psoriasis often flares up with emotional stress. Ayurveda sees mind and body as deeply connected, so calming the mind is part of healing the skin. Daily practices like abhyanga (self-oil massage), shirodhara, and mindfulness help in reducing stress-related flare-ups.
Conclusion
Psoriasis may be a long-term condition, but with the holistic approach of Ayurveda, many find lasting relief and improved skin health. By cleansing the body, balancing the doshas, and following mindful dietary and lifestyle habits, it is possible to bring the skin — and life — back into harmony.
