Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition characterized by patches of red, inflamed skin covered with silvery scales. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, causing rapid turnover of skin cells. This results in the buildup of skin cells on the surface of the skin, leading to the formation of thick, red patches with silvery scales.

Psoriasis can affect any part of the body, but commonly occurs on the elbows, knees, scalp, lower back, and nails. The severity of psoriasis can vary greatly from person to person, ranging from mild, with small, localized patches, to severe, with large areas of skin affected.

General Psoriasis Symptoms

  • Red patches of skin covered with thick, silvery-white scales (most common)
  • Dry, cracked skin that may bleed
  • Itching, burning, or soreness around affected areas
  • Thickened, pitted, or ridged nails
  • Stiff and swollen joints (may indicate psoriatic arthritis)
  • Low immunity
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Altered appetite and digestion
  • Altered bowel habits (constipation or diarrhoea)
  • Mental or emotional stress

Types of Psoriasis

There are several different types of psoriasis, each with unique characteristics:

  1. Plaque Psoriasis (Psoriasis Vulgaris)
    • Most common type (about 80–90% of cases)
    • Causes raised, red patches covered with silvery-white scales
    • Commonly appears on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back
  2. Guttate Psoriasis
    • Appears as small, drop-shaped sores
    • Often triggered by infections (like strep throat)
    • Common in children and young adults
  3. Inverse Psoriasis
    • Occurs in skin folds (under breasts, armpits, groin)
    • Appears as smooth, red, shiny lesions without scales
    • Often worsened by friction and sweating
  4. Pustular Psoriasis
    • Characterized by white pustules (blisters of non-infectious pus) surrounded by red skin
    • Can be localized (e.g., hands and feet) or generalized (more serious, requires immediate care)
  5. Erythrodermic Psoriasis
    • Rare and severe form
    • Causes widespread redness, scaling, and severe pain or itching
    • Can be life-threatening due to fluid loss and infection risk; medical emergency
  6. Nail Psoriasis
    • Affects fingernails and toenails
    • Causes pitting, discoloration, thickening, and potential separation from the nail bed
  7. Scalp Psoriasis
    • Can be a subtype of plaque psoriasis
    • Causes thick, crusted plaques on the scalp and may extend beyond the hairline

Ayurvedic herbs useful in Psoriasis:

  • Neem (Azadirachta indica): Neem is often referred to as “Sarva Roga Nivarini” in Ayurveda, meaning it can cure all ailments. Its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties make it useful in managing various skin conditions, including psoriasis.
  • Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of psoriasis when taken internally or applied topically.
  • Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis): Aloe vera has soothing and moisturizing properties that can help relieve itching and irritation associated with psoriasis.
  • Guggul (Commiphora mukul): Guggul is a resin obtained from the mukul myrrh tree and is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It helps to purify the blood and help in the management of psoriasis when taken internally.
  • Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia): Manjistha is a blood-purifying herb that is commonly used in Ayurvedic formulations for skin disorders. It helps in detoxification and supports healthy skin function.
  • Triphala: Triphala is a combination of three fruits: Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica), and Haritaki (Terminalia chebula). It is known for its detoxifying properties and helps in managing psoriasis by cleansing the body internally.
  • Bakuchi (Psoralea corylifolia): Bakuchi seeds are used in Ayurvedic preparations for skin disorders like psoriasis. They contain psoralen, a compound known for its photosensitizing properties, which is beneficial in psoriasis treatment.

Supplements:

Ghritas:

Tablets: