Psoriasis is a non-contagious skin condition characterized by accelerated skin cell production, leading to red, dry patches of thickened skin. This rapid buildup of skin cells results in dry flakes and scales. Commonly affected areas include the elbows, knees, and scalp.
Causes :
Psoriasis can be triggered by various factors, with heredity playing a significant role. If one parent has psoriasis, there is a 15% chance that their child may develop the condition. If both parents are affected, the likelihood increases to 60%. Other contributing factors include the consumption of certain foods together (such as fish and milk), trauma to the skin (like cuts, bruises, or burns), exposure to certain medications or skin irritants, excessive smoking and alcohol consumption, and mental stress or psychological trauma.
Symptoms
- Loose Silvery Scales: Flakes of skin that appear silvery and can easily come off.
- Itching or Burning Skin: Sensations of itching or burning in affected areas.
- Raised Pus-Filled Skin Bumps: Bumps on the skin filled with pus.
- Skin Redness Around Pustules: Redness surrounding areas with pustules.
- Restricted Joint Motion: Limited movement in joints affected by psoriasis.
- Emotional Distress: Psychological impact due to the appearance and discomfort of psoriasis.
- Skin Pain and Inflammation: Pain and inflammation in the affected skin areas.
- Skin Blisters: Fluid-filled blisters on the skin.
- Dry Skin Patches: Areas of skin that are dry and rough.
- Bleeding Skin Patches: Skin patches that may bleed due to cracking or irritation.
View Of Ayurveda
In Ayurveda, psoriasis is believed to result from an imbalance in the Vata and Kapha doshas. This imbalance affects the skin and leads to the accumulation of toxins, or ama, in deeper tissues such as rasa (nutrient plasma), rakta (blood), mansa (muscles), and lasika (lymphatic). The buildup of these toxins contaminates the deeper tissues, contributing to the development of psoriasis.
The primary goal of Ayurvedic treatment for psoriasis is to purify the blood and tissues. This involves cleansing the body of toxins and restoring digestive health to prevent further accumulation. Following this, nourishing herbs are used to strengthen and tone the tissues, promoting complete healing of the skin.
