Psoriasis vs. Eczema: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Ayurveda Treatment
Introduction :
Psoriasis and eczema are two common chronic skin conditions that cause irritation, redness, and discomfort. While they share similarities, their underlying causes, symptoms, and treatment approaches vary significantly. Modern medicine often manages these conditions with topical treatments and immunosuppressants, but Ayurveda offers a holistic approach through detoxification, herbal remedies, dietary regulation, and lifestyle modifications.
Comparison Chart: Psoriasis vs. Eczema :
| Feature | Psoriasis | Eczema |
|---|---|---|
| Cause | Autoimmune disorder; immune system overactivity leads to rapid skin cell turnover. | Overactive immune response triggered by allergens, irritants, or genetic factors. |
| Triggers | Stress, infections, cold weather, smoking, alcohol, skin injuries, and medications like beta-blockers. | Allergens (dust, pollen), harsh soaps, detergents, climate changes, stress, and food sensitivities (dairy, gluten). |
| Symptoms | Thick, silvery scales; dry, red patches; severe itching, burning sensation, cracking, and bleeding. | Red, inflamed, intensely itchy skin; blisters; crusting or oozing; skin thickening over time. |
| Affected Areas | Scalp, elbows, knees, lower back, nails; may also affect joints (psoriatic arthritis). | Face, neck, hands, inner elbows, behind the knees, feet; can spread to entire body in severe cases. |
| Diagnosis | Physical examination, biopsy, dermoscopy, blood tests to check for inflammatory markers. | Physical examination, patch testing for allergens, skin biopsy in severe cases. |
Ayurveda Perspective on Psoriasis vs Eczema :
Dosha Involvement:
- Psoriasis: Primarily a Vata-Kapha disorder with imbalances in Pitta causing inflammation.
- Eczema: A Pitta-Kapha disorder where heat (Pitta) and dampness (Kapha) lead to skin irritation and inflammation.
Ayurveda Treatment Approach :
| Ayurvedic Aspect | Psoriasis Treatment | Eczema Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Detoxification (Shodhana) | Panchakarma therapy (Vamana, Virechana, Raktamokshana, Takra Dhara). | Virechana (purgation therapy), Lepana (medicinal pastes), Sarvanga Dhara (herbal oil pouring). |
| Herbal Remedies | Neem (Azadirachta indica) – blood purifier, Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia) – detoxifier, Aloe Vera – skin healing. | Haridra (Turmeric) – anti-inflammatory, Khadira (Acacia catechu) – detoxifier, Triphala – gut health, Coconut oil – skin soother. |
| Dietary Recommendations | Avoid spicy, fried, fermented, and processed foods. Include fresh vegetables, fruits, ghee, and whole grains. Drink warm water to aid digestion. | Avoid dairy, excessive salt, fermented foods, and sour foods. Consume cooling foods like cucumber, pomegranate, and bitter vegetables. |
| External Applications | Herbal oil massage with Mahamarichyadi Taila, Psorolin oil, or coconut oil. Herbal pastes made from turmeric and neem. Medicated baths with triphala and neem water. | Moisturizing with coconut oil, sesame oil, or ghee. Aloe vera gel application. Herbal pastes of turmeric, sandalwood, and neem. eg dermosap ointment |
| Lifestyle Changes | Manage stress through yoga, meditation, and pranayama. Regular exercise to balance metabolism. Proper sleep routine to reduce inflammation. | Keep skin hydrated, wear soft cotton clothes, avoid extreme weather conditions, maintain good hygiene, and follow a stress-free routine. |
Additional Ayurvedic Therapies for Psoriasis and Eczema :
- Takra Dhara (Buttermilk Therapy): Helps reduce scalp psoriasis and calms the nervous system.
- Abhyanga (Oil Massage): Using medicated oils like Karanja and Neemb oil to nourish skin and reduce dryness.
- Raktamokshana (Blood letting Therapy): Used in severe cases of psoriasis to remove toxins from the blood.
- Shirodhara (Medicated Oil Pouring on Forehead): Reduces stress, balances hormones, and calms the mind.
Conclusion :
Both psoriasis and eczema require a comprehensive approach for effective management. Ayurveda focuses on balancing doshas, detoxification, herbal treatment, and dietary and lifestyle modifications. Since skin diseases are often linked to digestion and immunity, gut health and stress management play crucial roles in long-term relief. we at ayusannivani ayurveda clinics provides authentic ayurevda treatment for psoriasis and eczema treatment.
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