Dermatitis

Dermatitis is a general term for skin inflammation, encompassing conditions such as eczema, contact dermatitis, and seborrheic dermatitis. Redness, itching, rashes, and dry, flaky skin characterize these conditions.

Western medicine uses internal and external steroids, moisturizers, and antihistamines to balance the condition.

Ayurveda understands dermatitis primarily as a Pitta imbalance, but it can include all three doshas:

Pitta Dosha is responsible for heat and metabolism. When aggravated, it causes inflammation, redness, itching, and a burning sensation—standard features of eczema.

Vata Dosha controls all movement and dryness in the body. When aggravated, Vata leads to dryness, scaling, and skin cracking, often observed in dry forms of eczema.

Kapha Dosha governs moisture and stability, and an imbalance in Kapha can result in fluid retention, swelling, thickened skin, and oozing lesions—all symptoms typically seen in the weeping form of eczema.

Ayurveda associates skin imbalances with the accumulation of Ama (toxins) due to improper digestion, which weakens the digestive fire. Metabolic toxins are in the blood and tissues.

Treatments for Dermatitis

·     Detoxification (Panchakarma) and rejuvenation body therapies.

·     Herbal remedies include Guggulu, neem, triphala, turmeric, guduchi, pippali, and manjishta.

·     Ingestion of chyawanprash, which contains antioxidants and rejuvenating herbs, improves immunity and skin health.

·     Other vital considerations include developing a balanced food plan based on your constitution and avoiding processed, dry, light, and spicy foods while choosing warm, easily digestible options like steamed vegetables, soups, and whole grains.

·     Proper hydration is essential, with half your body weight in water or herbal teas.  Fresh coconut water and Aloe Vera juice are helpful for digestion and cooling actions. 

Lifestyle practices include stress management techniques such as meditation, pranayama practice, being in nature, and finding a realistic daily routine (Dinacharya), including regular meals, proper