Sticky Icon
Widget Toggle

Ayurveda Treatment for Psoriasis

Psoriasis

Overview

Psoriasis, known as “Kitibha Kushtha” in Ayurveda, is a chronic autoimmune skin disease caused by rapid skin cell turnover that forms red, inflamed patches or silvery scales. These patches appear mainly on the scalp, knees, elbows, lower back, and other locations on the body. 

According to Ayurveda, the main cause of psoriasis is the disturbance of Vata and Kapha in the body. In some cases, Pitta imbalance is seen to cause inflammation and accumulation of toxins in Rasa and Rakta Dhatus. This condition takes place when impaired Agni causes the accumulation of Ama, thus triggering inflammatory responses and the immune system’s attack on healthy cells. Ayurveda views this as a complex interplay of physiological, environmental, and lifestyle factors that compromise the body’s natural healing intelligence. Psoriasis can evolve into psoriatic arthritis, causing significant joint inflammation and potential long-term mobility challenges. It may affect any skin area, but mostly affects regions with extensor surfaces, such as the scalp, nails.

Conventional management usually means symptomatic management using various steroids, immunosuppressants, and biologicals, which have a potential side effect profile and do not target the root cause of the disease. The disease progression calls for comprehensive management. Apollo AyurVAID adopts an integrated, individual, and protocol-driven approach (Precision Ayurveda), addressing psoriasis’s root causes rather than treating only its symptoms.

Our in-depth health assessment exposes the fundamental root cause of the condition. Based on the assessment, a specially trained team of Ayurveda physicians will design an individualized protocol to reduce dependence on long-term drugs, prevent disease progression, strengthen immunity for life, and provide tailored therapies based on the individual’s needs.

Ayurveda offers the most promising comprehensive skin psoriasis treatment for this aggressive autoimmune condition. Psoriasis treatment in Ayurveda minimizes or prevents the use of pharmacological drugs for a long period and helps prevent the disease from progressing. 

Ayurveda scope

Who Can Benefit and Who May Not: Ayurveda Treatment Scope in Psoriasis

Who Benefits from Ayurveda Treatment?

  • Mild to moderate psoriasis patients are concerned with inflammation
  • Those experiencing recurrent flare-ups despite the conventional mode of treatment
  • Patients interested in preventing further disease progression and improving skin health
  • Patients taking pharmacological agents and desiring to be less dependent on them
  • People having comorbid conditions, including metabolic syndrome, obesity, or pain in joints
  • Patients looking for whole-person management through internal cleansing and strengthening their immune system
  • Patients in remission who want lifestyle changes to maintain health
  • Those with chronic recurrent psoriasis are interested in extensive management
  • Individuals looking for detoxification, to strengthen their immune system
  • Patients willing to undergo Panchakarma for systematic cleaning of the body and reduction of attacks

Who May Not Benefit from Ayurveda Treatment?

Ayurveda works towards root cause reversal in psoriasis patients, but sometimes may cater only to symptom management, such as the following: 

  • Severe erythrodermic or pustular psoriasis patients require immediate medical intervention. 
  • Unstable psoriasis patients with acute symptom deterioration. 
  • Very weak patients who cannot tolerate any Panchakarma procedures. 
  • Patients with active infections or fever. 
  • Pregnant women (certain treatments may have contraindications)

Key benefits

What Psoriasis Patients Can Expect from AyurVAID's Approach

Psoriasis can co-exist with comorbidities like cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, and psychological disorders. Conventional treatment options include immunosuppressants, biologicals, topical treatments, phototherapy, systemic preparations, and lifestyle and dietary changes. However, prolonged use can cause skin thinning and rebound effects, while systemic agents can cause organ toxicity. These interventions focus on symptoms rather than etiology. Ayurveda has a significant role in the comprehensive management of psoriasis. Psoriasis treatment in Ayurveda will yield the following unique benefits: 

  1. Symptomatic Relief and Healing
    It reduces inflammation, scaling, and skin patches
    Helps reduce the itch
    Pacify aggravated doshas and restore skin health
  2. Holistic Root Cause Management
    Looks into underlying causes such as digestive imbalances
    Eliminates accumulated toxins (Ama)
    Reestablishes normal immune function
    Enhances metabolism
  3. Long-Term Health Plan
    Preventing the recurrence of the disease through personalized diet and lifestyle changes
    Gradually phases out drug dependence
    Manages comorbidities like metabolic disorders and possible joint complications
    Offers wholesome development of the mind and body

Causes

Causative Factors (Nidanas) and Pathogenesis (Samprapti) of Psoriasis

According to Ayurveda, psoriasis follows a complex pathogenesis characterized by dosha imbalance, dhatu vaigunya, and srotas dushti. The samprapti (pathogenesis) of psoriasis can be outlined as follows: 

Nidana Sevana (Causative Factors/Possible Triggers): Imbalance of doshas and vitiation of dhatus is inherent for any disease. Consumption of incompatible, salty, sour, and fermented foods in excess, and Psychological stress with disturbances. Seasonal variations and faulty lifestyle habits trigger imbalances in the doshas, especially Pitta and Kapha.

Dosha Dushti (Tridosha Imbalance): Impairment of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha causes dhatu impairment. 

Dhatu Vaigunya (Tissue Derangement): mainly affects these three dhatus: Rasa, Rakta, and Mamsa. 

Agni Dushti & Ama Formation (Digestive Fire Impairment and Toxin Accumulation): With the disturbed metabolic path, digestion becomes compromised, and toxic material (ama) accumulates. Ama travels in the body and deposits into the skin layers.

Srotas Dushti (Disruption of Channels): Impairing the channels of Rasa-Dhatu, Rakta-Dhatu, and Mamsa-Dhatu. Due to this series of events, chronic inflammation develops, causing scaling and thickening of the skin.

Twak Adhishtana and Roopa Avastha (Symptom Manifestation at Skin Level): Scaly patches appear with redness and itching, with increased dryness over the skin. 

Upadrava (Complication): The chronicity of the disease is marked by an increase in scales and fissuring with secondary infection.

Symptoms

Symptoms (Rupa) of Psoriasis

Pathogenesis

Patients highly rate our Clinical Care, Outcomes, and Service

Patients expressed high satisfaction with their Psoriasis treatment, highlighting significant improvements in their conditions Book an Appointment

AyurVAID’s Approach

AyurVAID's 4-Step Approach to Determine Root Cause and Create Individualized Treatment Plan

  1. Whole-Person Health Assessment

A detailed investigatory assessment is done on the presenting complaint, health history, and possible underlying causes – Nidana Panchaka and clinical routes of disease – according to Ashta Sthana Pariksha (8-fold examination), Dasha Vidha Pariksha (10 factors), and Srota Pariksha. Appropriate blood tests (CBC, ESR, CRP, liver function) and dermatological assessments (PASI Score, BSA) for complete evaluation are also done. 

  1. Disease Tree

The entire disease tree, from the root cause to signs and symptoms, is drawn out from the causative factors, the imbalanced doshas, the subsystems involved, and the progression. This maps the unique pathway of the disease in each individual. 

  1. Personalized Protocol-Based Care Plan

The personalized protocol-based end-to-end treatment plan for improving skin condition, decreasing inflammation, and reversing the pathogenesis of the disease is developed based on individual disease trees and corresponding assessments. The plan includes classical Ayurveda medicines, therapies, detoxification treatments, personal dietary recommendations, and lifestyle modifications. It keeps close track of all dermatological parameters and other health factors to ensure the healing of the skin and the accompanying inflammation. 

  1. Disease Monitoring and Outcome Tracking

The assessment of skin lesions, the progression of disease, and the quality of life implications is done by standardized scales such as the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI), Body Surface Area (BSA), and Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI).

Treatment Plan

AyurVAID's Protocol-Driven Treatment for Psoriasis (Precision Ayurveda)

With a discerning focus on symptom control to limit disease progression, alleviate discomfort, and augment life quality, Apollo AyurVAID has embarked on Precision Ayurveda, which is said to be protocol-driven. Psoriasis treatment in Ayurveda considers the patient holistically. It seeks to balance the doshas, eliminate toxins, restore skin functions, and build general vitality. In other words, the exact treatment and duration will depend on the different degrees of severity of the respective condition.

Reducing Inflammation / Scaling

Poorvakarma Stage

Objectives: The Poorvakarma stage is primarily concerned with setting in motion a therapeutic process, treating the digestive strength, and initiating the detoxification process. Acute symptoms, such as itching and scaling, are handled, inflammation due to metabolic toxins (Ama) is reduced, and the digestive fire (Agni) is stimulated.

Duration: ~ 7-10 days

Therapies:

Internal Medicines: Medicines are prescribed based on the dosha disturbance to kindle the fire inside, improve digestion, and remove ama, which provides instant relief. 

External Therapies: Lepa (applying herbal paste), Parisheka (pouring medicated decoctions),  are used to decrease local inflammation, scaling, and itching.

Reversal of Pathogenesis

Panchakarma Therapies

Objectives: To thoroughly detoxify the body, get rid of toxins that have accumulated in the body channels and tissues, and balance the doshas. 

Duration: ~ 14-21 days

For Pitta-Vata Predominant: 

Virechana (purgation): This therapy helps expel excess Pitta and toxins from the liver and bloodstream. Snehapana (internal oleation) is first performed to loosen toxins. 

Rakta Mokshana (blood purification): In cases of acute aggravation with excessive toxins in the blood, blood purification therapies are imposed to remove toxins. 

Takra Dhara (pouring of medicated buttermilk ): Dhara soothes the nervous system, preventing further flare-ups by reducing the stress and calming the mind. 

For Kapha-Vata Predominant: 

Vamana (emesis): It eliminates excess Kapha. 

Nasya (nasal instillation of medicines):  Especially beneficial for scalp psoriasis or psoriasis with facial involvement.

External Therapies: Abhyanga (oil therapy), Kashaya Dhara (herbal decoction bath), and Lepana (application of medicated pastes) are done for both types of patients to enhance skin health and ease symptomatology.

Diet: An Appropriate diet will be prescribed by the physician.

Nourishing Therapies

Objectives: To enhance immunity, nourish the skin, and prevent recurrence. 

Duration: ~ 3-6 months

Rasayana Therapy: Rejuvenative medicines and blood purifiers are prescribed to enhance immunity, improve skin health, and prevent recurrence.

External Applications: Application of medicated oils (taila) and other topical preparations provides continuous skin nourishment.

Lifestyle Changes: Dietary changes such as avoiding trigger foods, stress management through pranayama and yoga, light exercise, and following seasonal regimens (Ritucharya) to maintain skin health and prevent flare-ups are recommended. These measures can be taken at home (on an OP basis).

In more advanced or resistant psoriasis, the above approach is tailored more carefully for the maintenance, slowing disease progression, and more intensive interventions during flares.

NOTE: The duration of treatment is variable and may be prolonged or shortened based on disease severity, body surface affected, or comorbidity involved.

Outcomes Delivered

AyurVAID adopts a precise, protocol-driven approach to ensure effective treatment and sustainable recovery. The following baseline values are recorded:

Disease Standard Scales: International scales like PASI (Psoriasis Area and Severity Index), BSA (Body Surface Area), and DLQI (Dermatology Life Quality Index) are used to assess severity and impact on quality of life.

Biomarkers: To assess inflammation and the degree of change in the skin.

Patient-Reported Outcomes: To objectively monitor improvement of symptoms and quality of life while maintaining transparency and minimizing bias.

Key Performance Highlights for Psoriasis Treatment at AyurVAID

Data based on 44 patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) collected across AyurVAID centers. This data is representative; individual outcomes may vary. Measured using standardized symptom scales and validated patient-reported assessments.

Scientific Publications

Case Studies

Scientific Publications

  1. Treatment Strategies Against Psoriasis: Principles, Perspectives, and Practices;
    Ramanunny AK et al, 2020: This review highlights the importance of novel, non-toxic drug delivery systems in psoriasis care, while emphasizing the role of traditional Indian medicine systems like Ayurveda in offering effective alternatives.

  1. Indian Traditional Treatments for Psoriasis: A Critical Appraisal of Available Evidence;
    Dayanand ND et al., 2023: The paper critically evaluates Indian traditional treatment systems (Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, Homeopathy) for psoriasis, showing positive clinical evidence and scope for integrative approaches.

  1. Role of Haratala Shodhana in the Therapeutic Efficacy of Rasamanikya with Guduchi Ghana;
    Parekh DN et al., 2021: A double-blind randomized trial showed that properly purified Rasamanikya, used with Guduchi Ghana, significantly alleviates symptoms in psoriasis patients, with high safety and efficacy.

  1. Ayurvedic Compound Drugs in Assessing Quality of Life in Eka Kushtha (Psoriasis);
    Mehta CS et al., 2011: Ayurvedic formulations including Medhya Rasayana and topical applications like Dhatryadhyo Lepa improved the quality of life and clinical condition in psoriasis patients.

  1. Comparative Effect of Navayasa Rasayana Leha and Medhya Rasayana Tablet with Dhatryadhyo Lepa in Ekkakushta (Psoriasis); 
    Mehta CS et al., 2013: This comparative clinical trial concluded that both Navayasa Rasayana and Medhya Rasayana, when combined with Dhatryadhyo Lepa, offer therapeutic value in chronic psoriasis cases.

  2. Supercritical Fluid Extracted Fatty Acids from Withania somnifera Seeds;
    Balkrishna A et al., 2020: Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) seed extracts demonstrated powerful anti-inflammatory properties, healing psoriasis-like lesions and reducing cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-6.

  1. Wrightia antidysenterica Linn. as a Therapeutic Emetic Agent in Psoriasis Management;
    Bhattacharyya N et al., 2016: This study evaluated Wrightia antidysenterica seeds as a therapeutic emetic (Vamana Karma), reporting promising outcomes for detoxification in psoriasis treatment.

  1. Samyak Snigdha Lakshana of Shodhananga Snehapana with Mahatikthakam Ghritam in Psoriasis; Ramteke R et al., 2011: A clinical trial assessed internal oleation (Snehapana) with Mahatikthakam Ghritam, confirming its effectiveness in achieving Samyak Snigdha Lakshana and supporting Shodhana therapy in psoriasis.

  2. Modulation of Psoriatic-like Skin Inflammation by Divya-Kayakalp-Vati and Oil; Balkrishna A et al., 2021: Divya-Kayakalp-Vati and Kayakalp Oil reduced inflammatory markers and improved psoriasis symptoms in clinical models, highlighting their potential as Ayurvedic anti-inflammatory agents.

  3. Clinical Efficacy of Shodhana Karma and Shamana Karma in Mandala Kushtha (Psoriasis); Mangal G et al., 2012: This research affirms that a combination of Shodhana (detoxifying) and Shamana (pacifying) treatments significantly reduces psoriasis symptoms and recurrence.

Hear from our patients!

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

References

How long does Ayurveda treatment take to show results for psoriasis?
Results from Ayurveda treatment can vary, and the duration of skin psoriasis treatment can range from 14 to 21 days. AyurVAID's protocols aim to restore skin texture and reduce itching.
Can I continue my conventional medications while undergoing Ayurveda treatment?
: An integrative approach to psoriasis management should be opted for after seeking advice from both system experts. Patients may benefit from reducing dependency on steroids through psoriasis natural treatment, Ayurveda.
Can Ayurveda cure psoriasis?
Psoriasis cure in Ayurveda depends on the disease's chronicity, the patient’s condition, and comorbidity, etc, factors. While Ayurveda aims for root cause reversal in psoriasis, the scope might be restricted to periodic cleansing and dietary, lifestyle changes to manage symptoms in some severe cases. AyurVAID's approach focuses on controlling symptoms and preventing disease progression.
What dietary restrictions should I follow during treatment?
Dietary restrictions in skin psoriasis treatment​ in Ayurveda emphasize avoiding incompatible food combinations, sour, spicy, fermented, and processed foods. A balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods is recommended, along with avoiding trigger foods like red meat and dairy.
How often do I need to visit the clinic during the treatment course?
The frequency of clinic visits depends on disease severity, the patient’s condition, and comorbidities. The duration of intensive Panchakarma therapies can be 14-21 days.
Which dosha has psoriasis?
Ayurveda attributes psoriasis primarily to an imbalance involving Vata and Kapha doshas, with Pitta vitiation leading to inflammation. The vitiation of tridosha (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) is considered a primary cause due to factors like incompatible food intake.
What organ is responsible for psoriasis?
According to Ayurveda, psoriasis arises from a complex interplay of factors, including the vitiation of tridoshas, weakened digestion leading to toxin accumulation (Ama), and obstruction of channels affecting skin tissues (Rasa and Rakta dhatus). While not attributing it to a single organ, it highlights digestive imbalances (Agni Mandya) as a key factor.
What is the Sanskrit name for psoriasis?
The Sanskrit name for psoriasis mentioned in the sources is "Kitibha Kushtha". It is also referred to as "Eka Kushtha" in the context of a clinical trial.

References

Kadukkattil Ramanunny, A., Wadhwa, S., Singh, S. K., Sharma, D. S., Khursheed, R., & Awasthi, A. (2020). Treatment strategies against psoriasis: Principle, perspectives and practices. Current Drug Delivery, 17(1), 1–161. link
Jalawadi, A. R., Naik, S. S., & Lohar, S. S. (2023). Ayurvedic management of psoriasis (Kitibha) – A case report. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences, 8(6), 228–232. link
H, M. M., Kori, V. K., & Patel, K. R. (2024). Ayurvedic management of Kitibha Kushta. AYUSHDHARA, 11(4), 1623. link
Bangi, H., & Patil, A. (2024). Efficient management of Kitibha Kushta with Virechana therapy: A case report. International Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Pharmacy, 15(6), 184. link
Agrawal, S., Patel, K. V., & Sharma, S. K. (2014). Efficacy of Ayurvedic therapies on psoriasis: A review on researches conducted at Gujarat Ayurved University, Jamnagar. International Journal of Ayurveda and Pharma Research, 2, 1–5. link
Trojacka, E., Schwartz, R. A., & Czajkowski, R. (2015). Influence of exogenous and endogenous factors on the course of psoriasis. Polski Merkuriusz Lekarski, 38(225), 169–173. link
Ko, S., & van Voorhees, A. S. (2015). Lifestyle changes for treating psoriasis. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2015(7), CD011972. link
Ismail, A., & Hamed, D. E. (2023). Erectile dysfunction and metabolic syndrome components in obese men with psoriasis: Response to a 12-week randomized controlled lifestyle modification program. Irish Journal of Medical Science, 193, 523–529. link
Higgins, E. (2000). Alcohol, smoking and psoriasis. Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 25(6), 396–400. link
Nelson, P. A., Chew-Graham, C. A., Griffiths, C. E. M., & Cordingley, L. (2014). ‘In someone’s clinic but not in mine’ – Clinicians’ views of supporting lifestyle behaviour change in patients with psoriasis. British Journal of Dermatology, 171(6), 1366–1374. link

Did the information meet your needs?

As we work hard to improve our services, your feedback is important to us. Please take a moment to help us serve you better.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, Ayurvedic practitioner, or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.

Stay Connected to Health and Wellness

Subscribe to our hospital newsletter for the latest health tips, updates on services, patient stories, and community events. Sign up today and stay informed!

Homepage B RCB

Please fill out the form below to Request a call back

Patient details

Select Preferred Center

Content Details

We update our articles as new material becomes available, and our specialists keep a close eye on the health and wellness industry.

Medically reviewed by
Dr. Shashidhara Gopalakrishna
Written by
Dr Shobitha Madhur

Share this article on

Medically Reviewed

Last updated on:

Do you have concerns with the content?

Report Problem

Ayurveda Doctors for Psoriasis

Related Blogs

We’d Love to Hear from You!

Feedback form(disease page)

Can we help?

Something wrong with our medical content?
 
Report Problem form

Hours of Operation:
8am – 8pm (Mon-Sat)
8am – 5pm (Sun)

Follow Apollo AyurVAID hospitals

Popular Searches: DiseasesTreatmentsDoctorsHospitalsWhole person careRefer a patientInsurance