All about Atopic Dermatitis and How Ayurveda Can Help You?

ABSTRACT

Atopic Dermatitis is a common pediatric disease, although it can affect an individual of any age group. The cause of it can be genetic or environmental or a combination of both. The symptoms include reddening of the skin, itchy or flaking skin, or even blisters. A medical practitioner can diagnose atopic dermatitis by looking at the affected area and knowing about family medical history, although sometimes a biopsy may be needed to diagnose. While modern medicine has a number of treatments to manage atopic dermatitis, Ayurveda uses pure and all-natural herbs and ancient remedies to treat the disease from within. The formulations are free from preservatives, additives or fillers, and are 100% vegetarian in nature. Various formulations work in harmony with each other to achieve a soft, supple and perfect skin, free from eczema. In this article we will look at Atopic Dermatitis in detail.

INTRODUCTION

Skin is the largest organ of our body. Soft and supple skin makes us feel good about ourselves. If there are any issues with our skin, we immediately want to make it right, not only for the looks of it, but also to make the discomfort go away as sometimes ailments can make it difficult to function. One such complex skin condition is atopic dermatitis. With a multitude of causes and limited available treatment, atopic dermatitis can really be a challenging hurdle to overcome. Also known as eczema, atopic dermatitis mainly affects children, although sometimes it can affect someone regardless of age.

CAUSES

The cause of atopic dermatitis is still under research. Genetics and environment both play a role in development of atopic dermatitis. If someone is genetically predisposed to this condition, there are certain environmental factors that can trigger and flare up the condition depending upon what the individual is exposed to. Exposure to pollution and toxins can quickly trigger eczema as can strong fragrances. When this happens, the body’s immune system attacks itself, causing a flare-up. These toxins are generally referred to as allergens, as atopic dermatitis causes something similar to an allergic reaction on the skin. Mental or physical stress, sweat, extreme temperatures, and unhealthy diet are also some factors that may trigger or flare-up atopic dermatitis.

Hence, some causes of Atopic Dermatitis are

• Genetic predisposition
• Environmental toxins
• Pollution and pollutants
• Mental stress
• Physical stress
• Sweat
• Extreme temperature
• Unhealthy diet

SYMPTOMS

In atopic dermatitis, an area or patch on the skin may become dry, flaky, red, inflamed, or even weep. The skin barrier is weakened which causes skin to lose moisture, which in turn causes dry skin. Dry skin can be itchy and when scratched, it causes more damage to the skin. Some symptoms of atopic dermatitis are

• Dry Skin
• Redness
• Rashes
• Itching
• Inflammation
• Weeping when scratched
• Blisters
• Crusting
• Thickening and hardening of skin
• Hyper pigmentation

Atopic dermatitis can happen anywhere on the body including the face, scalp, folds of skin, inside elbows, and behind the knees. It generally occurs where more friction is experienced, and it may present itself in a symmetrical manner in the body.

DIAGNOSIS

A certified professional can diagnose atopic dermatitis via history taking, inspection, and if required, a skin biopsy to examine and observe the rashes.

AYURVEDIC OVERVIEW

Eczema is referred to as “Kshudra Kushta” or “Vicharchika” in Ayurvedic philosophy. A disease which may cause discoloration of skin is known as Kushta. When there is an imbalance in the body, it manifests in the form of an illness or disease. There are three dynamic energies- Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. When these doshas are out of balance, it can cause ailments in the body including atopic dermatitis. There are some herbs in Ayurveda that are used in the treatment of dermatitis. For example, Neem is a miracle herb which has many healing properties such as anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and wound healing properties. It also helps to prevent infections. Turmeric is another powerful herb which helps with inflammation and is anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory in nature. Aloe Vera has soothing properties along with Vitamin E and essential minerals. There are a number of ancient and pure Ayurvedic herbs that can significantly improve dermatitis. The herbs can be used by themselves or they can be mixed with other herbs to create a healing formulation.

TREATMENT

Modern treatment for atopic dermatitis includes management of symptoms with the help of anti-inflammatory medication, topical moisturizers, topical or oral immuno-suppressant, topical or oral steroids, and if required, wet dressings. Modern medicine does not offer a cure for atopic dermatitis and hence the symptoms can be managed as such.  In Ayurveda, A formulation of herbs can be used to effectively manage and treat the symptoms. Essential herbs such as Manjistha, Amla, and the goodness of topical treatments including honey and Aloe Vera, Gandhak (sulphur) and a combination of various healing oils can prove powerful in the treatment of eczema. These all-natural remedies when used in the right combination provide a strong action which heals these skin issues and significantly improve quality of life.

HERBAL REMEDIES FOR ATOPIC DERMATITIS BY PLANET AYURVEDA

Planet Ayurveda manufactures its own products which are 100% natural, pure, and made with love. Planet Ayurveda is GMP certified, US-FDA registered and ISO 9001:2015 certified Ayurveda Company. Our products do not contain any additives, preservatives, or fillers, just the goodness of natural herbs loaded with healing properties. Planet Ayurveda offers an Atopic Dermatitis Care Pack which features capsules, tablets, oils, and a special honey shower gel to soothe eczema and restore confidence in you. The atopic dermatitis care pack includes

1. Gleaming skin, hair, nails formula
2. Navkarshik Churna
3. Gandhak Rasayan
4. Kustha Rakshas Tel
5. Royal Honey Shower Gel

Product Description

1. Gleaming Skin, Hair, Nails Formula

The Gleaming Skin, Hair, and Nails Formula by Planet Ayurveda is in the form of a capsule. Composed of Manjistha and Ghrit Kumari (Aloe Barbadensis) among other ingredients. Manjistha has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, and Ghrit Kumari (Aloe Vera) contains essential antioxidants and purifying minerals. Hence, as the name suggests, this product promotes healthy hair, skin, and nails. Persistent use of this formula can make a significant difference over time.

Dosage: One capsule is to be taken twice a day followed by warm water after meals.

2. Navkarshik Churna

The Navkarshik Churna by Planet Ayurveda comes in powder form and supports healthy skin and joints. It harnesses the power of Amla (Emblica Officinalis), Neem (Azadirachta Indica), Manjistha (Rubia Cordifolia), and Daruhaldi (Berberis Aristata), which also helps to promote overall health in a holistic manner. Amla is rich in antioxidants and Vitamin C, Manjistha has anti-microbial properties, and Daruhaldi contains wound-healing properties with anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties. Neem promotes wound-healing, fights skin infections, and stimulates collagen production, among other benefits.

Dosage: One teaspoon of the Navkarshik Churna should be taken with warm water twice a day after meals

3. Gandhak Rasayan

Gandhak Rasayan by Planet Ayurveda is in tablet form which contains purified sulfur. Sulphur is anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial in nature, and it supports a healthy skin. Regular consumption will show definitive results.

Dosage: Two tablets should be taken twice daily with warm water after meals.

4. Kustha Rakshas Tel

The Kustha Rakshas Tel by Planet Ayurveda is a miracle oil which contains purified mercury, purified sulfur, Lashun (Allium Sativum), Hartal (Orpiment), and Amaltas beej (Cassia Fistula) along with a number of other natural and potent ingredients all of which are useful in skin disorders and wound healing, and possess other essential properties used to treat atopic dermatitis. Lashun (Garlic) has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and it has a skin glow effect. It is also immunomodulatory and has a wound-healing action. Amaltas beej reduces Serum IgE levels and aids in skin problems.

Method of Application:  It has to be applied externally twice or thrice a day. Before application kindly wash the affected area.

5. Royal Honey Shower Gel

The Royal Honey Shower Gel by Planet Ayurveda should be used for bathing. It contains a multitude of powerful ingredients such as Vitamin E, Aloe Vera Extract, Tea Tree Extract and Glycerin along with Honey and other natural ingredients. Vitamin E is an antioxidant and it has skin moisturizing properties. Tea tree extract has anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects. Glycerin hydrates the skin, improves skin barrier function, accelerates wound-healing process and helps in relieving dry skin. The skin soothing property of the Royal Honey Shower Gel is invaluable.

Method of Application: Squeeze a small amount onto a wet body sponge or pouf. Work into a rich creamy lather and then rinse clean.

CONCLUSION

Atopic dermatitis can be a very persistent condition which does not go away easily. It causes discomfort in daily activities and sometimes can make it very difficult to function. While modern medicine has the means to manage individual symptoms, Ayurveda offers pure and natural remedies to tackle the condition. Various natural herbs work together to target the skin condition from inside and out. The tablets, capsules, and churna work from within to eliminate atopic dermatitis, while the Kustha Rakshas Tel can be used topically to provide relief. The Shower gel when used everyday can prove to be a boon in managing eczema. Along with using these remedies, do remember to not get the affected area wet very often, stay away from allergens, and keep an eye on your nutrition, and your physical and mental health!