eczema

Eczema, also known as dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition characterized by inflammation, redness, itching, and dryness of the skin. It may also involve oozing, crusting, or thickened skin in severe cases. It is a non-contagious condition and can occur at any age.

Types of Eczema

1. Atopic Dermatitis

Common in children; dry, itchy, and inflamed skin, often seen on the face, elbows, and knees. It may flare up periodically.

Associated conditions: Allergies, hay fever, asthma.

2. Contact Dermatitis

Localized reaction to irritants (e.g., soaps, detergents) or allergens (e.g., nickel, cosmetics). Causes redness, burning, or blistering.

Types:

• Irritant contact dermatitis.
• Allergic contact dermatitis.

3. Dyshidrotic Eczema

Small, itchy, fluid-filled blisters on the hands and feet, often worsened by stress or exposure to water.

4. Nummular Eczema

Coin-shaped spots of dry, scaly, itchy skin, often triggered by dry weather or skin injury.

5. Seborrheic Dermatitis

Scaly patches, redness, and dandruff, commonly seen on the scalp, face, or chest. Often linked to oily skin or yeast overgrowth.

6. Stasis Dermatitis

Occurs on the lower legs due to poor circulation, leading to swelling, redness, and skin discoloration.

7. Neuro-dermatitis

Thick, scaly patches of skin caused by repetitive scratching, often triggered by stress.

Causes of Eczema

1. Genetic Factors

A family history of eczema, asthma, or allergies increases susceptibility.

2. Environmental Triggers

• Allergens (pollen, pet dander)
• Irritants (soaps, perfumes, chemicals).
• Weather changes (cold, dry air).

3. Immune Dysfunction

An overactive immune response to irritants or allergens.

4. Stress:

Emotional or physical stress can trigger or worsen eczema.

5. Lifestyle Factors:

Poor skin care, frequent exposure to water, or excessive use of cosmetics.

Symptoms of Eczema

Primary Symptoms

Itchy, red, and inflamed skin.

Dryness, cracking, or scaling.

Blisters or oozing in severe cases.

Thickened or leathery skin due to chronic scratching.

Associated Symptoms

Discoloration, sensitivity, or irritation from scratching.

In Ayurveda, eczema is referred to as Vicharchika, a type of Kushtha (skin disease). It results from an imbalance of the three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—with Pitta and Kapha being predominantly involved.

• Pitta: Causes redness, inflammation, and burning.
• Kapha: Leads to itching, oozing, and thickening of the skin.
• Vata: Contributes to dryness and scaling.

Causative Factors in Ayurveda

• Consuming incompatible foods (Viruddha Ahara), such as milk with fish.
• Excessive intake of spicy, oily, or fried foods.
• Stress, poor digestion (Agni imbalance), and toxin accumulation (Ama).
• Seasonal changes (Ritucharya) and improper lifestyle (Dinacharya).

Ayurvedic Treatment for Eczema

Internal Treatments

Herbal Remedies

Neem (Azadirachta indica)

Blood purifier and anti-inflammatory.

Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia)

Detoxifies blood and reduces itching.

Khadira (Acacia catechu)

Treats skin conditions and allergies.

Rasayana Therapy

Strengthens immunity and rejuvenates skin.

Panchakarma Detoxification

Includes therapies like Virechana (purgation) and Raktamokshana (bloodletting).

External Applications

• Herbal Pastes: Application of neem and turmeric
• Medicated Oils: Coconut oil infused with Karanja or Neem
• Bathing Therapies: Warm water baths with Triphala or Manjistha.

Dietary Guidelines

• Avoid spicy, sour, and oily foods.
• Include cooling and detoxifying foods like buttermilk, leafy greens, and fruits.
• Drink herbal teas like coriander or fennel seed water.