🌿 Ayurvedic Approach to Eczema (Vicharchika)

In Ayurveda, eczema is often classified as Vicharchika, a type of Kustha (skin disorder), typically caused by an imbalance in the Pitta and Kapha doshas. The goal is to restore doshic balance, eliminate toxins (ama), and strengthen agni(digestive fire).

🧘 Step-by-Step Ayurvedic Treatment Plan

1. 🧼 Detoxification (Panchakarma Therapy)

A certified Ayurvedic practitioner may recommend Panchakarma to eliminate deep-seated toxins:

• Snehana: Internal oleation with medicated ghee

• Abhyanga: Full-body oil massage with herbal oils

• Swedana: Steam therapy to open pores and release toxins

• Virechana: Therapeutic purgation to cleanse Pitta

• Raktamokshana: Bloodletting (rarely used today, but historically part of eczema care)

These therapies must be done under supervision.

2. 🌿 Herbal Remedies

Internal Herbs:

• Triphala: Gentle detoxifier and digestive regulator

• Neem (Azadirachta indica): Antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, blood purifier

• Manjishtha (Rubia cordifolia): Excellent for skin detox and blood cleansing

• Turmeric: Anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating

• Indian Sarsaparilla: Supports liver and skin health

Nervous System Support:

• Ashwagandha: Reduces stress-related flare-ups

• Brahmi: Calms the mind and supports emotional balance

• Kava Kava: Used for anxiety and skin-related stress triggers

3. 🧴 Topical Applications

• Neem paste: Apply to affected areas to reduce itching and inflammation

• Manjishtha + Haridra paste: Soothes redness and dryness

• Aloe vera gel: Cooling and healing for inflamed skin

• Turmeric + sandalwood paste: Antiseptic and calming

Always patch test before applying and consult a practitioner for formulations.

4. 🥗 Diet & Nutrition

Ayurveda emphasizes a Pitta-pacifying diet for eczema:

• Eat warm, cooked, and mildly spiced foods

• Avoid sour, spicy, fermented, and oily foods

• Favor bitter and astringent vegetables (e.g., spinach, bottle gourd)

• Include foods rich in zinc, vitamin A, and essential fatty acids

• Drink licorice tea, aloe vera juice, and coriander water

Avoid:

• Dairy (especially curd and cheese)

• Refined sugar and processed foods

• Nightshades (tomato, eggplant, potato)

• Excess salt and sour foods

5. 🧘 Lifestyle & Stress Management

Stress is a major trigger for eczema. Ayurveda recommends:

• Daily meditation and pranayama (especially alternate nostril breathing)

• Oil massage (abhyanga) with cooling oils like coconut or neem

• Regular sleep and tech-free evenings

• Gentle yoga to calm the nervous system

🧭 Final Tips

• Always consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner before starting herbs or therapies

• Track your symptoms, triggers, and emotional patterns

• Healing takes time—be patient and consistent

• Combine Ayurvedic care with gentle dermatological support if needed