Atopic Dermatitis Safest Management with Ayurveda And Herbal Medicine

Abstract

Atopic dermatitis is the most prevalent form of eczema. It is an inflammatory skin disorder characterized by recurring eczematous lesions, itchy and inflamed skin. It causes the skin to become dry, flaky, and rough. The condition often comes and goes, with symptoms flaring up at certain times and then getting better. Atopic dermatitis affects about 15-20% of children and 1-3% of adults globally. It often starts in childhood and while many kids see their symptoms improve or even go away as they grow up. There is no specific test to diagnose atopic dermatitis. But diagnosis can be made by reviewing symptoms and performing physical exams. Family history plays a significant role in atopic dermatitis. This condition tends to run in the family. If one or both parents have atopic dermatitis or other allergic conditions, there’s a higher chance their children might develop it too. The course of the condition can vary from person to person. Let’s have a Look!

Introduction

Eczema is an umbrella term for skin conditions characterized by inflammation, redness, itching and dryness. There are seven different types of eczema, including atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, neurodermatitis, nummular eczema, seborrheic dermatitis and stasis dermatitis. Atopic dermatitis is the most common form of eczema. In individuals with atopic dermatitis, the immune system becomes overly active, although the exact reason for this is not yet fully understood. Atopic dermatitis often occurs alongside two other allergic conditions, that is asthma and hay fever. Individuals with asthma or hay fever, or those with a family history of these conditions are at higher risk of developing atopic dermatitis.

Causes And Common Triggers of Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis can be influenced by various environmental and internal factors. Some common triggers for atopic dermatitis are as follow

1. Allergens

• Pollen
• Dust mites
• Pet dander

2. Irritants

• Soap and detergents
• Perfumes, shampoo and some lotions
• Cleaning product that contain chemicals

3. Weather Condition

• Cold and dry weather
• Humid weather

4. Emotional factors

• Stress
• Anxiety

5. Infections

• Viral infections
• Bacterial infections
• Fungal infections

6. Fabric and clothing

• Rough fabric
• Tight clothing

7. Allergies

• Food allergy

8. Sweat

• Sweating after physical activity can cause flare-ups of atopic dermatitis.

Common Areas Affected By Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis can affect any part of the body. The area involved often depends on age and the severity of the condition. Commonly affected area include

1. In infants and young children

• Face
• Scalp
• Arms and legs

2. In older children and adults

• Elbows and knee
• Hand and feet
• Neck and face
• Upper chest and upper back

Symptoms of Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis often starts in early childhood, typically within the first six months of life. Symptoms can be mild or severe, they are as follow

1. Persistent itchy skin is a hallmark symptom of atopic dermatitis.
2. Affected area appears red and inflamed.
3. Skin becomes dry and rough with scaly patches.
4. Due to repeated scratching, skin may become thick.
5. Rash may appear on various parts of the body, including the elbow, face, knees and hands.
6. Blisters on the affected area can be seen in severe cases.
7. Discoloration on the area of skin affected by long-term eczema.
8. Cracks can appear on skin, it can also cause bleeding.
9. Skin becomes more sensitive to irritants.

Understanding Skin Itching in Atopic Dermatitis

Itching is a hallmark of atopic dermatitis. The constant itching can significantly affect the quality of life. This can cause frustration, discomfort and difficulty in quality of life. So it is important to understand the causes, patterns and managements of itching. Intense itching or pruritus is one of the most prominent symptoms of atopic dermatitis. In people with atopic dermatitis the protective barrier of skin is often weak, which makes skin more vulnerable to irritants. When the immune system overreacts due to some triggers, it releases histamines, which cause the sensation of itching. Due to this people scratch the affected area to get temporary relief. But scratching can worsen the condition by increasing the risk of infection. It can also cause skin damage and discolouration. For many people with atopic dermatitis, the itching tends to get worse at night, making it hard to sleep. To manage itching in atopic dermatitis, many tropical steroids, moisturisers and oral medications are given to reduce inflammation and soothe the skin.

The Emotional and Psychological Effect of Atopic Dermatitis

Living with atopic dermatitis can take a toll on both physical and mental health. It can cause stress and anxiety in some people. The continuous itching and flare-ups can lead to frustration and embarrassment. Night time itching and scratching can interfere with sleep. The visible effect on the skin can lead to negative body image, thus affecting self-confidence.

Diagnosis

It is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination and tests to rule out other conditions. They include

• Medical history review, including family history.
• Physical exam is conducted to assess Skin Condition.
• Diagnostic criteria such as Hanifin and Rajka criteria are used to diagnose atopic dermatitis. These criteria focus on itchy skin, eczema and history of other allergic skin conditions.
• Patch testing for allergens.
• Blood test to check IgE levels.
• Skin biopsy in cases of unclear diagnosis.

Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis

Managing atopic dermatitis involves a combination of medications, skincare routines and lifestyle changes aimed at reducing symptoms. They are as follow

• Topical corticosteroids to reduce swellings and redness
• Regular use of thick moisturisers
• Oral or topical antihistamines
• Immunosuppressive drugs
• Immunosuppressive drugs
• Antibiotics
• Avoid triggers
• Stress management
• Follow proper diet

Ayurvedic Concept

In ayurveda, “Kushtha” refers to a group of skin disorders. Maha kushtha and Kshudra kushtha are further classified within kushtha. According to the ayurvedic classical text, all types of kushtha involve the participation of the three doshas (vata, pitta and kapha). The type of kushtha is determined by the dominance of doshas (body humors). Mainly seven factors are vitiated in this condition, they are three doshas (vata, pitta, kapha) and four Dushyas (factors affected by doshas), Twak (skin), Mamsa (muscle tissue), Shonita (blood) and Laseeka (lymph or plasma). Among the 11 types of kshudra kushtha, charamdala (Type of skin disease) closely resembles atopic dermatitis, characterized by itching, reddish discoloration, peeling, dryness and the formation of papules.

Pathogenesis of Atopic Dermatitis

The pathogenesis of charamdala (atopic dermatitis) involves a combination of immune dysfunction, environmental triggers and an imbalance in doshas (body humors). In the case of charamdala (atopic dermatitis), Agni mandya (weak digestion) leads to formation of ama (toxin). Then amma (toxin) accumulates in Twak (skin), rakta (blood), mamsa (muscles), and lasika (lymph). This causes dryness and itching due to vitiated vata, inflammation due to vitiated pitta and scaling due to vitiated kapha. This ama (toxin) further obstructs srotas (channel) and blocks the flow of vital fluids through the channel, particularly the Rasa (lymph) and Rakta (blood). Accumulation of ama (toxins) in skin aggravates inflammation and itching. The presence of Ama (toxin), along with the chronic imbalance in Agni (body fire), leads to a cycle of repeated flare-ups. The condition becomes chronic as Ama (toxin) continues to accumulate and Agni (digestive fire) remains weak, hindering proper detoxification and healing.

Management of Atopic Dermatitis As Per Ayurveda

Ayurvedic treatments aim to improve digestion, eliminate toxins, and restore balance to the body’s energies (doshas) to help soothe symptoms and prevent flare-ups in conditions like Charmadala (atopic dermatitis). By focusing on strengthening the Agni (digestive fire) and clearing out Ama (harmful toxins), Ayurveda seeks to support long-term healing and skin health. Some steps to manage this condition includes

1. Balancing Agni

• Dietary modification: warm and easily digestible food.
• Herbs like Ginger (Zingiber officinale) and Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) are commonly used to improve digestion and prevent the formation of Ama(toxin).

2. Topical Treatment

• Herbal oil such as Neem oil, coconut oil and sesame oil can be applied regularly to reduce itching.

3. Panchkarma

• Virechana (purgation): Helps eliminate toxins from the body.
• Abhyanga (oil massage): Helps soothe the skin, reduce dryness, and balance the doshas.
• Swedana (steam therapy): Opens up the pores, promoting detoxification through sweating.

Herbal Remedies For Atopic Dermatitis by Planet Ayurveda

Planet Ayurveda provides top-quality herbal solutions, like the Atopic Dermatitis Care Pack, specially formulated to support the natural healing of atopic dermatitis. These remedies are made from carefully selected Ayurvedic herbs, following the time-honored principles of Ayurveda. They are free from chemicals, additives, and preservatives, ensuring a completely natural, vegetarian, and 100% pure product.

1. Gleaming Skin, Hair, Nails Formula
2. Gandhak Rasayan
3. Navkarshik Churna
4. Kustha Rakshas Tel
5. Royal Honey Shower Gel

Product Description

1. Gleaming Skin, Hair, Nails Formula

These capsules contain a mix of beneficial herbs like Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia), Sariva (Hemidesmus indicus), and Ghrit Kumari (Aloe vera). Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia) and other herbs that helps in removing toxins from the bloodstream, which are often linked to skin conditions like atopic dermatitis. Aloe vera is renowned for its ability to soothe and hydrate the skin. All of these herbs work together to support the health of your skin, nails, and hair. The formula is also known for its detoxifying properties, helping to remove toxins from the body and promote overall wellness.

Dosage: 1 capsule, twice daily with warm water after meal.

2. Gandhak Rasayan

Gandhak Rasayan comes in tablet form and contains purified sulfur. Taking it regularly helps promote healthy, glowing skin. It is known for its anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifying properties. These qualities may help soothe irritated skin, reduce itching, and manage the inflammation associated with atopic dermatitis.

Dosage: 2 tablets, twice daily with warm water after meal.

3. Navkarshik Churna

It is a popular Ayurvedic herbal formulation known for its detoxifying, purifying, and rejuvenating properties. This is a powerful combination of herbs that promote healthy blood circulation. It includes Amla (Emblica officinalis), Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), Bahera (Terminalia bellerica), Neem (Azadirachta indica), Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia) and several other herbs.

Dosage: 1 tsp, twice daily with warm water after a meal.

4. Kustha Rakshas Tel

This ayurvedic blend contains ingredients like Parada (Purified Mercury) for rejuvenation and healing, Gandhak (Purified Sulphur) for its antimicrobial properties, and Kutha (Dolomiaea costus) for skin detoxification and wound healing. Saptaparna (Alstonia scholaris) and Chitrakmool (Plumbago zeylanica) help with skin issues and digestion. Lashun (Allium sativum) and Bakuchi Beej (Psoralea corylifolia) aid in wound healing and skin rejuvenation. Amaltas (Cassia fistula) Beej and Tamra Bhasma reduce inflammation, balancing the skin’s health.

Dosage: 3ml, twice daily for local application.

5. Royal Honey Shower Gel

Royal Honey Shower Gel is a soothing formula designed to hydrate and nourish the skin, especially beneficial for conditions like atopic dermatitis. It combines the healing properties of Honey, Vitamin E, and Aloe Vera extract (Aloe barbadensis) with the antimicrobial benefits of Tea Tree Extract (Melaleuca alternifolia). The gel also contains Glycerin for moisture retention. It has other ingredients also that provide additional hydration, UV protection, and skin barrier support, making it a gentle and effective choice for sensitive skin.

Usage: Use for bathing

Conclusion

In this article we concluded about Atopic dermatitis and its ayurvedic aspect. Atopic dermatitis is a chronic skin condition that requires careful management to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. In this article we discussed its causes, symptoms, the areas that get affected commonly by atopic dermatitis, its emotional and psychological effect on individuals, its diagnosis, management and its ayurvedic concept including herbal remedy to manage atopic dermatitis.