Eczema

Nobody can deny the fact that eczema is uncomfortable and irritating. It often stems from a compromised immune system. It is a matter of distress to people who suffer from it. 

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a condition where patches of skin become inflamed and cracked. The other symptoms of the disease include itching, redness, roughness and sometimes the presence of blisters.  

Atopic dermatitis is prevalent in children, although adults can also get it. The disease is usually chronic and tends to flare periodically. No permanent cure has been found for eczema, but the symptoms can be relieved and outbreaks can be prevented with some self-care measures. The home remedies listed can help avoid harsh soaps, naturally moisturize the skin, and avoid the topical application of steroidal ointments.

What are the types of Eczema? 

Atopic Dermatitis: The exact cause of the disease is unknown but happens when the immune system is drastically affected in response to a triggering factor or due to any irritant. The condition is chronic and shows inflammatory changes in the skin. This condition starts to develop during childhood but can be seen in adulthood as well.

Irritant Dermatitis: When the skin comes in contact with any irritants like alkalis, detergent, or acids, the disease occurs. 

Stasis Dermatitis: This condition arises due to poor blood circulation in the lower extremities. As a result inflammatory changes occur in the skin.

Allergic Contact Dermatitis: This is an allergic condition that occurs due to any exposure to allergens that contact the skin. 

Scabies: Scabies occur due to mite infestation on the skin. This condition is highly contagious and causes red and itchy inflammatory changes in the affected area.

Lichen Simplex Chronicus: Due to constant itching, scratching or rubbing, the skin becomes thickened. The condition is localized to a particular area. 

Dyshidrotic Eczema: In this type of eczema, there are blisters over the skin, especially in areas of fingers, feet, palms and the hands.  

Seborrheic Dermatitis: In these seborrheic conditions, the skin shows changes like scaly red patches, mainly on the scalp, ears, brows, chest and back.

Nummular Eczema: The condition is very itchy and has round coin-shaped lesions that develop on your skin, and they are itchy. These lesions may become crusty.

Xerotic Eczema: The condition is common in winter and is marked by dry and itchy skin (due to lack of moisture), worsening over time.

The ideal way is to identify what is triggering the condition and avoid them. Although there is no permanent remedy, flare-ups can be prevented.   

What are the causes of Eczema?

The causes of Eczema may vary from person to person exhibiting various symptoms.

• Family history 
• Mutation in the filaggrin gene ; the involvement of genetic factors, is still not precise. But those who are suffering from the disease are more likely to pass it to their progenies. 
• Skin irritants: maybe any fabric, such as wool or synthetic clothes, allergy to detergents, perfumes, soaps, chlorine or any other chemical solvent.
• Temperature: extreme temperature situations lead to dryness of skin and worsen the situation.  
• Lack of moisturizing
• Animal dander in some cases
• Pollen, moulds, dust mites
• Incompatible food items may also be a cause of Eczema

What are the symptoms of Eczema?

It is essential to understand that the signs and symptoms of Eczema may differ from individual to individual.

• Intense itching
• Rashes or red bumps
• Cracked skin
• Itching and burning sensation on the rashes
• Crusting of the rashes
• Liquid oozing from the rashes
• Swelling in particular areas of rashes
• Clear liquid filled bumps

Ayurvedic treatment for Eczema

The strength of Ayurveda in diagnosing and treating an underlying cause is commendable. It not only offers proper diagnosis but also offers long sustainable results for the diseases. According to Ayurveda, the skin is one of the body’s vital areas where Pitta resides and is responsible for its colour, texture, temperature, lustre, and glow. Pitta is also in charge of our blood, liver, and digestion, all of which directly impact our skin.

Eczema is correlated to Vicharchika, which is a type of Kshudrakustha in Ayurveda. Ayurveda explains the characteristic symptoms like Kandu (itching), Srava (discharge), Pidaka (vesicles), and Shyava Varna (discolouration) for Vicharchika. The mainstay of treatment explained in Ayurveda for Vicharchika is Shodhana and Shamana therapies. Therefore, a permanent cure for Eczema in Ayurveda is possible with the help of treatments that will eliminate the Doshas, correct the Dhatus and bring them to normalcy.

Ayurvedic cure for Eczema include – 

Lepam : Fresh herbs are pounded into a fine paste and applied over the lesions. This helps to reduce the Eczema symptoms along with other medicines. Ayurvedic medicine for Eczema includes herbs like Manjishta, Khadira, Sariva, Aragwadha, Nimba, Mahanimba, Chandana, Karanja, Kutaja, Haridra, Daruharidra, Bakuchi etc. are being used. 

Parisheka: The treatment includes sprinkling the medicated liquids over the lesions. Mahatikataka kashayam, Pachatiktaka kashayam, Vasaguduchiyadi kashayam are helpful for the same. 

Shodhana: Shodhana therapies like Vamana and Virechana are recommended to the patient depending on the Doshic constitution and state of disease. The purificatory treatments are conducted with utmost care and the prerapratory treatment like Snehana (abhyantara and bahya) are carried out.

Eczema ayurvedic home remedies 

1. Coconut Oil

Applying coconut oil directly over the affected site is an effective ayurvedic remedy for Eczema. 

Coconut oil soothes the skin, reduces skin inflammations and irritations. The oil keeps the skin hydrated and controls further infections. It has the presence of lauric acid, which reduces the chances of infection. The oil is best to subside pain and discomfort caused due to Eczema.

2. Aloe vera 

Aloe vera gel should be scooped out from the fresh leaf and applied directly over the eczematic lesions. Aloe vera is best known for its soothing nature over the skin. The herb works well on hydrating the skin, controlling dryness, and acting as natural Ayurvedic cream for Eczema.  

3. Paste of Cassia Leaves (Golden shower tree)

The cassia leaves should be collected freshly and cleaned. Then the leaves are ground to a fine paste. Apply this fine paste over the Eczema patches or lesions. This is one of the best ayurvedic medicines for Eczema.

The plant is commonly available all over the country and helpful in treating inflammations related to skin disorders. It heals the lesions or wounds and prevents oozing discharge from the lesions.

Lifestyle Changes for Eczema Treatment

• Use mild soaps and moisturizers. A mild soap will not dry out the skin. Apply gentle moisturizer after a shower, which will keep the skin hydrated. This should be followed for both elder and younger individuals. 
• Altogether avoid taking hot water baths. Instead, take warm showers for a short time. This may prevent the skin from dryness. 
• Manage your Stress – Stress often triggers or worsens any skin disorders. Involve in activities that please the mind and body.
• Avoid excess oily and dry foods. Instead, include a healthy diet like green leafy vegetables and fresh fruits in the diet. 
• Sound sleep is essential to maintain good health. Rest the body sufficiently to calm the mind.