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In the ancient science of Ayurveda, skin diseases are meticulously described, categorized, and treated based on a deep understanding of the body's doshas and the balance of its elemental forces. Here, we delve deep into the realm of Ayurveda, exploring the primary skin diseases, their root causes, and the effective treatments as prescribed by this age-old healing practice.

All the skin diseases in Ayurveda are explained under the heading of KUSHTA. The causes for the skin disease, pre symptoms, and symptoms according to dosha predominance are mentioned in detail.

Skin in Ayurveda

In the ancient texts of Ayurveda, Sushruta, one of the eminent scholars, has explained the formation of Skin from the time of conception.

Sushruta has explained in detail the anatomy of the skin, its thickness, different layers, and the diseases with their signs and symptoms that arise in different layers. It has also explained the various treatments for skin diseases as well.

“How a layer of cream is formed when the boiled milk cooled, in a similar way Rasa, Raktha and other dathus; churned by their respective biological fire (Agni) forms the Skin. From the process of the conception of Shukra (sperm) and Shonita (ovum) itself, all the parts of the human body develop, and simultaneously by the function of the specific transformative process of dhatus (dhatwagni paaka) the skin is formed.”

Skin & Mahaboothas
Any change visible on the Skin anatomically or physiologically has a direct relationship with the Mahaboothas. And that’s a true fact. Because an Ayurvedic practitioner always analyses and understands Skin diseases based on the variation in the different Mahaboothas. Any medicines applied towards that particular Mahabootha result in a change in the physiology or anatomy of the Skin itself.

Skin Diseases in Ayurveda: Their Causes and Treatment

Understanding the Ayurvedic Perspective on Skin Diseases

The foundation of Ayurveda revolves around the concept of the three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Skin diseases, or ‘Twak Vikaras’, manifest due to the imbalances in these three doshas.

1. Vata Dominant Skin Diseases: Dry, rough, and cold skin conditions arise from a Vata imbalance. Examples include eczema and psoriasis.
2. Pitta Dominant Skin Diseases: These manifest as inflamed, hot, and reddened skin, such as acne, rashes, and rosacea.
3. Kapha Dominant Skin Diseases: Resulting from excess oil and moisture, Kapha skin conditions appear swollen and clammy, like fungal infections and warts.

Causes of Skin Diseases According to Ayurveda

• Dietary Misalignment: Consuming excessive spicy, sour, or stale foods can disturb the dosha balance.
• Environmental Factors: Overexposure to sun, cold, or wind can lead to certain skin conditions.
• Lifestyle Mismanagement: Lack of hygiene, irregular sleep patterns, and stress can precipitate skin issues.
• Genetic Dispositions: Hereditary factors can predispose individuals to specific skin ailments.

Skin Layers according to Ayurveda

Though skin is divided into external (epidermis) and internal (dermis), it has very minute and thin structural layers. Acharya Charaka has mentioned six layers and Sushruta has considered seven layers. The diseases related to different layers of the skin are also detailed by Acharyas. All these seven layers in combination form the physical appearance of skin.

1^st Skin layer: Avabhasini:

This is the uppermost and thinnest layer of the skin. This determines the luster of the skin. It’s also known as Udakadhara because it holds or does the Dharana of lasika, rakta, etc..substances. It has a thickness of 1/18 of rice grain. Diseases like Sidma, Padmakantaka, etc… are related to this layer.

2^nd Skin layer: Lohita:

This layer called is Lohita, also known as Asrukdhara because it predominantly consists of blood vessels and Rakta dhatu. Charaka has named it as Asrug dhara twak. It has a thickness of 1/16 of rice grain. Diseases like Tilakalaka, Nyacccha, Vyanga, etc…are related to this layer.

3^rd Skin layer: Shweta:

This layer looks white in color. It has a thickness of 1/12 of rice grain. Diseases like Charmadala, Ajagallika, Mashaka, etc…are related to this layer.

4^th Skin layer: Tamra:

This layer has a copper color and thickness of 1/8 of rice grain. Diseases like different types of Kilasa, kusta are related to this layer.

5^th  Skin layer: Vedini:

This layer has plenty of nerves which is responsible for the perception of sensation. It has a thickness of 1/5 of rice grain. Diseases like Kushta and Visarpa…are related to this layer.

6^th Skin layer: Rohini:

This is the sixth layer. It gives nourishment to the skin and consists of blood vessels, lasika, and vata Nadi’s. It has the thickness of a rice grain. Diseases like Granthi, Apachi, Arbuda, Shleepada, Galaganda, etc… are related to this layer.

7^th  Skin layer: Mamsadhara

This is the last and innermost layer adhering to the muscles. It has double the thickness of rice grain. Diseases like Bhagandhara, Vidrudi, Arshas, etc…are related to this layer.

All the measurements are applicable only to the place that is predominant with muscle tissues and not in the forehead, little finger, etc….

Skin Diseases in Ayurveda, we have to understand that skin problems not only involve external skin but also it is related to the whole body. The food we take and the production of Rasa dhatu along with other internal functions of the body should be observed during the treatment of any skin disease.

The skin has three layers epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis

The epidermis, the outermost layer of skin, provides a waterproof barrier and creates our skin tone.

The epidermis contains 5 layers. From bottom to top the layers are named:

• Stratum basale
• Stratum spinosum
• Stratum granulosum
• Stratum licidum
• Stratum corneum

The dermis, beneath the epidermis, contains tough connective tissue, hair follicles, and sweat glands.

The deeper subcutaneous tissue (hypodermis) is made of fat and connective tissue.

Holistic Treatment Approaches in Ayurveda

1. Dietary Recommendations

• For Vata Dominant Skin Diseases: Consume warm, moist, and grounding foods like soups and stews. Avoid cold and dry foods.
• For Pitta Dominant Skin Diseases: Favor cool, sweet, and bitter foods. Reduce spicy and sour intake.
• For Kapha Dominant Skin Diseases: Opt for light, warm, and spicy foods. Steer clear from oily and heavy dishes.

2. Herbal Remedies

• Aloe Vera: Excellent for cooling and healing the skin, especially for Pitta conditions.
• Neem: Known for its antimicrobial properties, it’s a go-to for most skin diseases.
• Turmeric: Its anti-inflammatory properties aid in treating various skin conditions.

3. Panchakarma Treatments

This cleansing and detoxifying procedure purifies the body, treating the root cause of skin diseases. It includes therapies like:

• Virechana: A purgation therapy to clear Pitta-related skin issues.
• Vamana: Therapeutic vomiting to cleanse Kapha-related skin conditions.

4. Topical Treatments

• Coconut Oil: Balances Vata by moisturizing dry skin.
• Sandalwood Paste: Cools and calms inflamed Pitta skin.
• Triphala: A balanced herbal formula that aids all skin types.

5. Lifestyle Adjustments

Regularizing sleep, adopting a balanced routine, practicing meditation, and ensuring personal hygiene can prevent and mitigate skin diseases.

Conclusion

Ayurveda offers a comprehensive, holistic approach to skin diseases, focusing not just on the symptoms but the root causes. By understanding the interplay of doshas, dietary choices, environmental factors, and lifestyle, one can effectively navigate the vast arena of skin diseases in Ayurveda and find suitable treatments. Embracing the wisdom of Ayurveda ensures skin health that’s more than just skin deep.

FAQ on Skin Diseases and Ayurveda

1. What are the primary doshas associated with skin diseases in Ayurveda?
   • The three primary doshas are Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Imbalances in these doshas lead to various skin diseases.
2. How does Ayurveda categorize skin diseases based on doshas?
   • Vata dominant conditions are dry and rough, Pitta conditions are inflamed and reddened, while Kapha conditions are characterized by excessive moisture and oiliness.
3. Which foods can exacerbate skin conditions according to Ayurveda?
   • Spicy, sour, stale, or improperly combined foods can disrupt dosha balance, leading to skin issues.
4. Can environmental factors contribute to skin diseases in Ayurveda’s perspective?
   • Yes, factors like overexposure to sun, wind, or extreme cold can lead to skin conditions due to dosha imbalances.
5. What are some Ayurvedic remedies for skin conditions?
   • Aloe Vera, Neem, and Turmeric are prominent Ayurvedic herbs known for their skin-healing properties. Other ayurvedic treatments depend on dosha predominance.
6. How does Ayurveda use Panchakarma for skin conditions?
   • Panchakarma is a detoxifying treatment that addresses the root cause of skin issues. Specific therapies like Virechana and Vamana are employed based on the dominant dosha of the condition.
7. Can lifestyle changes aid in the prevention of skin diseases in Ayurveda?
   • Absolutely. Regular sleep, stress management, personal hygiene, and a balanced routine are essential in preventing and managing skin issues.
8. What topical treatments are recommended in Ayurveda for skin conditions?
   • Depending on the dosha imbalance, treatments like Coconut Oil, Sandalwood Paste, and Triphala can be beneficial.
9. How long does it typically take to see improvements in skin conditions using Ayurvedic treatments?
   • While some may observe changes in a few weeks, Ayurveda emphasizes long-term balance and holistic health, so sustained treatment over months might be necessary.
10. Can Ayurvedic treatments be combined with modern dermatological treatments?
    • Yes, but it’s essential to consult both an Ayurvedic practitioner and a dermatologist to ensure compatibility and effectiveness.

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