Ayurveda, a traditional Indian system of medicine, offers a holistic approach to treating psoriasis. By incorporating herbs, dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications, Ayurveda can help alleviate symptoms and improve overall health. Learn more about this natural healing method and how Ayurvedic treatment for psoriasis can be beneficial in this article.

Understanding Ayurvedic Treatment for Psoriasis

Ayurveda views psoriasis as a result of an imbalance in the body's doshas, or energies. By addressing this imbalance through herbs, diet, and lifestyle changes, Ayurveda can help reduce inflammation and improve skin health. The core principle of Ayurveda is that you must be healthy on the inside, to show health on the outside.

The Ayurveda approach to psoriasis involves a natural & holistic ideology. It has gained popularity in the Western world over recent years as sufferers look for a long-term management plan which is natural, and free of nasty side effects. Although there has been little research on this approach, it shows the basic principles of skin health to be effective time and time again. These include reducing inflammation, good nutrition, and a holistic approach to skincare.

The Ayurveda approach to psoriasis compromises:

·     Natural remedies - often using herbs

·     Detoxification treatments

·     A healthy diet

According to Ayurvedic theory, psoriasis is believed to be caused by an imbalance of the three doshas - Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. The doshas refer to three different types of energies that are present within the body and are responsible for its functioning. In Ayurveda, psoriasis is considered a Pitta imbalance disorder, where Pitta dosha becomes overactive and disrupts the natural balance of the body. This dosha plays a vital role in digestion, metabolism, and other biochemical processes, and its excess can cause inflammation and skin issues like psoriasis. To treat psoriasis based on Ayurvedic principles, the approach involves identifying the root cause of the Pitta imbalance and taking steps to restore balance.

Panchakarma is thought to be an effective treatment for psoriasis. Panchakarma is a holistic approach to wellness that originated in ancient India. Panchakarma involves a series of cleansing and detoxification treatments that aim to restore the body's natural balance and promote healing from within. It is a safe and natural treatment option that can be used in conjunction with other therapies and medications to improve the symptoms of psoriasis. Panchakarma treatments for psoriasis typically involve a combination of massage, herbal therapy, and other detoxification methods.

Ayurvedic Herbs for Psoriasis Treatment

Ayurveda offers a variety of herbs that can help alleviate psoriasis symptoms. Neem, for example, has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help reduce redness and itching. Turmeric, another popular Ayurvedic herb, has been shown to reduce inflammation and improve skin health. Turmeric can also help with hyperpigmentation, scars, and other skin damage. We recommend a teaspoon a day. This can be added as a spice while cooking, in your smoothie (Psoriasis Smoothie Recipe), or if you don’t like the taste, try a daily capsule.

There are several other herbs that are commonly used in Ayurvedic psoriasis treatment. One of the most popular is neem (Azadirachta indica), a bitter herb with antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. Neem is often used in creams and oils for psoriasis and is also available in supplement form.


Guggul (Commiphora mukul) is another herb that is traditionally used in Ayurvedic psoriasis treatment. It has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties and has been found to be effective in reducing scaling, redness, and itching in psoriasis patients.

Methi (Trigonella foenum-graecum) or fenugreek is a herb that is commonly used in Indian cuisine. It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and has been found to be effective in the treatment of numerous skin conditions, including psoriasis.

Ayurvedic Diet for Psoriasis

In addition to herbs, Ayurveda also emphasises the importance of diet in treating psoriasis. According to Ayurvedic principles, psoriasis is caused by an imbalance in the body's doshas, or energies. To rebalance these energies, an Ayurvedic diet for psoriasis typically includes foods that are cooling and anti-inflammatory, such as leafy greens, fruits, and vegetables. It's also important to avoid foods that are known to trigger inflammation or indigestion, such as processed foods, sugar, and alcohol. The approach also advises avoiding salty, sour, and acidic foods. Most Ayurvedic diets are vegetarian.

Ayurveda states to avoid ‘bad food combinations’. These include eating fruit with dairy e.g. strawberries & cream. Ayurveda recognises that foods have diverse properties and that their combination can either enhance or disturb the digestion. Some food combinations can create toxins in the body that can lead to several health issues. Other examples of these combinations include eating meat with dairy or honey with hot foods.

In Ayurveda, food is considered medicine, and it is believed that the right combination can promote health and longevity. Therefore, it is essential to be mindful of our food choices and avoid bad food combinations that can create imbalances and lead to health issues.

Another Ayurvedic diet principle is to eat more iron. Iron is one foundation of healthy skin. A deficiency can lead to aging, dryness and itchy skin. Our Skin Condition Support Supplements contain 79% of your recommended daily amount of iron. Ayurveda recommends eating iron-rich foods in a way that helps balance the doshas and promotes good health.

An Ayurvedic practitioner can help create a personalised diet plan based on your specific needs and dosha type.

Ayurvedic Lifestyle Changes for Psoriasis

Ayurveda also recommends lifestyle changes to help treat psoriasis naturally. This includes practicing stress-reducing techniques such as yoga and meditation, getting regular exercise, and getting enough sleep. One principle is to not take naps and to stick to a sleep schedule dictated by typical circadian rhythms. Ayurveda also emphasises the importance of maintaining a healthy digestive system, as poor digestion can contribute to psoriasis symptoms. This can be achieved through practices such as mindful eating, staying hydrated, and incorporating digestive-supporting herbs and spices into your diet. By making these lifestyle changes, you can support your body's natural healing process and alleviate symptoms of psoriasis.

Other Ayurvedic Principles

-       Ayurvedic practitioners recommend drinking warm water with lemon juice in the morning to help detoxify the body. This simple yet effective solution has been used for centuries to improve digestion, immune function, and overall health. Warm water helps to stimulate the digestive system and improve the flow of blood to the digestive tract, promoting healthy digestion. Lemon, on the other hand, is a rich source of Vitamin C and antioxidants, which help to boost the immune system and fight off free radicals that can damage the body at a cellular level.

-     Massages- Ayurvedic massage is performed by using warm oils and a combination of techniques such as kneading, tapping, and stroking. The oils used are specifically chosen based on the individual's dosha, or body type according to Ayurveda. These oils are believed to have therapeutic properties that can help balance the body and mind. One of the unique features of Ayurvedic massage is the use of marma points. Marma points are the junctions where bones, muscles, and nerves meet. They are believed to be the gateways to the body's energy flow, and massaging these points can help release blockages and promote healing.

- ‘Pranayama’ – Pranayama is an ancient practice that involves the regulation of breath through techniques such as deep breathing, retention of breath, and alternate nostril breathing. It has been used for thousands of years in yoga and meditation as a means of controlling the mind and improving overall health.

- Eliminate stress- To combat stress, Ayurvedic practitioners recommend following an appropriate diet and lifestyle that corresponds to your unique constitution. This includes eating nourishing foods, engaging in regular exercise, getting plenty of rest, and practicing mindfulness techniques such as meditation and Yoga.

- Avoid Alcohol-In Ayurveda, alcohol is generally considered to be a toxin and is not recommended for regular consumption. However, it is not completely prohibited. Ayurvedic practitioners recommend avoiding hard liquors or cheap alcohol that are high in impurities and can be harmful to the body. Ayurveda also suggests consuming alcohol with food to help mitigate its negative effects and to avoid excessive consumption.

·-      Avoid harsh, chemical-laden products- One of the key principles of Ayurveda is the use of natural, plant-based remedies to promote health and prevent disease. The use of organic and natural products in Ayurveda is particularly important because these products are free from harmful chemicals and toxins that can negatively impact health. Many conventional products contain synthetic ingredients that can cause allergic reactions, hormonal imbalances, and other health problems over time.

·-      Do not use water that is too hot or too cold- According to Ayurveda, it is important to use water that is neither too hot nor too cold. Water has a significant impact on our body, and using it judiciously is key to maintaining balance and promoting overall health. Using water that is too hot can cause damage to the skin and disrupt the delicate balance of the body's internal systems. It can lead to dehydration, as well as cause inflammation and redness, particularly in individuals with sensitive skin. On the other hand, using water that is too cold can shock the body, causing a constriction of blood vessels and a decrease in circulation. This can lead to reduced immunity, as well as cause muscle cramps and stiffness, particularly in individuals with already compromised circulation.

There is no scientific evidence to support the Ayurvedic principles to treat psoriasis. However, given they are all-natural methods, based on solid principles, they are definitely worth a try!

Consult with an Ayurvedic Practitioner

While Ayurveda can be a helpful natural treatment for psoriasis, it’s important to consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner before starting any new treatment plan. They can help you determine the best herbs, diet, and lifestyle changes for your specific needs and health history. They can also monitor your progress and make adjustments to your treatment plan as needed. It’s important to work with a qualified practitioner to ensure safe and effective treatment.