How Ayurveda is Helping in Atopic Dermatitis Naturally?

Abstract

Atopic dermatitis (AD), also known as atopic eczema, is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition that significantly impacts the quality of life for millions worldwide. Characterized by intense itching, dry skin, and recurring eczematous lesions, AD often presents in childhood but may persist or even develop in adulthood. While the precise etiology is multifactorial, it is largely attributed to genetic predispositions, immune system dysregulation, environmental triggers, and defects in the skin barrier. With its relapsing-remitting course, atopic dermatitis requires ongoing management strategies, including topical treatments, lifestyle modifications, and in severe cases, systemic therapies. This article explores the causes, clinical features, and current approaches to managing this prevalent dermatological condition in the modern medicinal system as well as traditional Indian ayurvedic system of medicine.

Introduction

Atopic dermatitis is a common skin disorder affecting individuals across various age groups, though it most frequently manifests during infancy and early childhood. It is a type of eczema distinguished by chronic inflammation, skin barrier dysfunction, and a strong association with other atopic conditions such as asthma, allergic rhinitis, and food allergies. The condition poses both physical and psychological burdens due to persistent itching, sleep disturbances, visible lesions, and potential social stigma. Although non-contagious, its recurrent nature and unpredictable flare-ups make it a particularly distressing disease for patients and their caregivers. Globally, the prevalence of AD has been rising, particularly in urbanized regions, likely due to changing environmental and lifestyle factors. It is estimated that up to 20% of children and 3% of adults are affected, making it a significant public health concern. Despite the growing understanding of its pathogenesis, AD remains a complex disorder. Effective management requires a comprehensive approach tailored to the individual, encompassing education, skin care routines, avoidance of triggers, and appropriate medical interventions.

Causes

• Genetic Predisposition: Family history of eczema, asthma, or allergic rhinitis increases risk.
• Immune System Dysfunction: Overactive immune response to harmless substances causes inflammation.
• Skin Barrier Defect: Mutations in the filaggrin gene lead to a weakened skin barrier, allowing moisture loss and entry of irritants/allergens.
• Environmental Triggers: Dust mites, pollen, pet dander, mold, or pollution can trigger flare-ups.
• Irritants: Soaps, detergents, shampoos, perfumes, and wool clothing can aggravate symptoms.
• Allergens: Foods (e.g., eggs, milk, peanuts), pollen, or dust can worsen symptoms in some individuals.
• Climate and Weather: Cold, dry weather or excessive heat and sweating can irritate the skin.
• Microbial Infections: Bacterial (e.g., Staphylococcus aureus), viral, or fungal infections may trigger or worsen eczema.
• Stress: Psychological stress can provoke or exacerbate symptoms.
• Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations during pregnancy or menstruation can affect skin sensitivity.

Signs and Symptoms

• Itching (Pruritus): Most common symptom, often intense, especially at night.
• Dry Skin: Skin appears rough, flaky, or scaly; easily irritated and cracked.
• Red or Brownish-Gray Patches: Commonly found on hands, feet, ankles, wrists, neck, upper chest. In children: face, scalp, and the creases of elbows and knees.
• Thickened, Cracked, or Scaly Skin: Due to chronic scratching or rubbing; can lead to lichenification (thick, leathery skin).
• Small, Raised Bumps: May leak fluid and crust over when scratched; more common in acute flare-ups.
• Swelling and Inflammation: From scratching and irritation; skin may feel warm and tender.
• Skin Sensitivity: Easily reacts to soaps, detergents, or allergens; increased susceptibility to irritants.
• Darkening of Skin Around the Eyes: Known as “allergic shiners.”
• Raw, Sensitive Skin: Especially where scratching is frequent.
• Increased Risk of Skin Infections: Due to breaks in the skin barrier.

Management

• Topical Corticosteroids
• Topical Calcineurin Inhibitors
• Topical PDE4 Inhibitors
• Systemic Corticosteroids
• Systemic Immunosuppressants
• Biologics (Monoclonal Antibodies)
• Antihistamines
• Antibiotics (Topical/Systemic)
• Moisturizers and Emollient
• Phototherapy (UV Light Therapy)

Ayurvedic Aspect and Management of Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic Dermatitis is very closely related with Vicharchika, a disease classified under kshudra kushta (minor skin disorders), which involves kandu (itching), pidaka (oozing or pustules), raji (discoloration or hickening). It is tridoshaja condition, however pitta and kapha dosha are predominant and vata aggravates dryness and fissuring of the skin. Rasa (nutritive fluids) and rakta dhatu (blood) are affected in this condition. Causes behind the occurrence of the disease involve consumption of incompatible foods (e.g., fish with milk), Excess intake of sour, salty, spicy, or fermented foods, stress and anxiety, irregular sleeping habits and excessive exposure to allergens or irritants.

Management

Shodhana (Purification Therapies)

• Vamana (emesis) for Kapha-dominant cases,
• Virechana (purgation) for Pitta-dominant cases,
• Raktamokshana (bloodletting) for chronic and stubborn lesions.

Shamana (Pacification Therapies)

Herbal formulations such as Arogyavardhini Vati, Khadirarishta, Manjisthadi kwath, Khadirarisht, Gandhaka Rasayana etc.

External applications: Neem oil, Karanj oil, Kusthaadi taila, Lepa with pamahar lepa, turmeric, manjistha, or yashtimadhu

Diet and Lifestyle

• Avoid dairy with sour or salty foods
• Avoid nightshades (tomatoes, brinjal), shellfish, and preserved meats
• Use cooling, non-irritating clothing and skin care products
• Regular oil massages with medicated oils like Eladi taila

Herbal Remedies for Atopic Dermatitis by Planet Ayurveda

Planet Ayurveda is a renowned herbal healthcare brand dedicated to promoting the wisdom of Ayurveda through 100% natural and authentic products. Founded by Dr. Vikram Chauhan, MD (Ayurveda), the company focuses on holistic healing by offering a wide range of herbal supplements and formulations, all manufactured in strict adherence to ancient Ayurvedic principles. With a strong emphasis on quality, Planet Ayurveda ensures its products are free from chemicals, preservatives, and artificial additives, making them safe and effective for long-term use. It serves people globally, offering personalized consultations and natural remedies for various chronic and lifestyle disorders. For individuals suffering from skin conditions like Atopic Dermatitis, Planet Ayurveda provides a specialized herbal formulation known as the Atopic Dermatitis Care Pack, aimed at detoxifying the body, balancing the doshas, and nourishing the skin from within.

1. Gleaming Skin Hair Nails Formula
2. Navkarshik Churna
3. Gandhak Rasayan
4. Kustha Rakshas Tel
5. Royal Honey Shower Gel

Product Description

1. Gleaming Skin Hair Nails Formula

Gleaming Skin, Hair, Nails Formula by Planet Ayurveda is a carefully crafted herbal supplement that helps manage Atopic Dermatitis. This formulation includes four powerful ingredients: Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia), known for its blood-purifying and anti-inflammatory properties, helps clear toxins that trigger skin flare-ups; Pit Papda (Fumaria officinalis) supports skin health, reducing internal heat and allergic responses associated with eczema. Chirata (Swertia chirata), a bitter herb, helps manage immune-related skin disorders by flushing out metabolic waste. Ghrit Kumari (Aloe barbadensis) is highly valued for its cooling, soothing, and hydrating effects on irritated or inflamed skin. Together, these herbs work synergistically to calm the immune system, purify the blood, and reduce dryness, itching, and redness — all key symptoms of Atopic Dermatitis. This natural approach offers a gentle yet effective way to manage the condition without harsh side effects.

Dosage : 1 capsule twice daily with warm water after meals

2. Navkarshik Churna

Planet Ayurveda’s Navkarshik Churna is an Ayurvedic herbal formulation designed to support skin health, particularly in conditions like atopic dermatitis. This churna combines several potent herbs known for their detoxifying, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties. Amla (Emblica officinalis) is rich in vitamin C, it acts as a powerful antioxidant, supporting immune function and skin rejuvenation, haritaki (Terminalia chebula) is known for its detoxifying effects, it aids in cleansing the digestive system, which indirectly benefit skin health, bahera (Terminalia bellerica) helps in balancing the body’s internal systems, promoting overall skin health, vacha (Acorus calamus) possesses anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce skin inflammation associated with atopic dermatitis, neem (Azadirachta indica) is known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, it helps in purifying the blood and preventing skin infections, katuki (Picrorhiza kurroa) acts as a liver tonic, aiding in detoxification processes that can improve skin conditions, manjistha (Rubia cordifolia) is a blood purifier, it helps in clearing toxins from the body, promoting clear skin, giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) boosts the immune system, helping the body combat skin-related issues effectively, daruhaldi (Berberis aristata) has antimicrobial properties, assisting in the treatment of skin infections and inflammation. Together, these herbs work synergistically to purify the blood, reduce inflammation, and boost the immune system, addressing the underlying causes of atopic dermatitis.

Dosage : 1 tsp. full twice daily with warm water after meals

3. Gandhak Rasayan

Gandhak Rasayan from Planet Ayurveda is a powerful Ayurvedic formulation designed to support the treatment of skin conditions like Atopic Dermatitis. The primary ingredient is Shuddha Gandhak (purified sulfur), which has antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. These qualities help in reducing the inflammation, redness, and itching commonly associated with Atopic Dermatitis. Additionally, Shuddha Gandhak acts as a natural blood purifier, detoxifying the body and reducing the internal factors that aggravate skin conditions. By promoting the healing of damaged skin and balancing the doshas, Gandhak Rasayan helps restore skin health and prevent future flare-ups. This natural remedy supports long-term relief and is free from harsh chemicals, making it a must choice for Atopic dermatitis.

Dosage : 2 tablets twice daily with warm water after meals

4. Kustha Rakshas Tel

Planet Ayurveda’s Kustha Rakshas Tel is an Ayurvedic herbal oil formulated to manage skin conditions including atopic dermatitis. It combines potent herbs and minerals known for their anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and skin-healing properties such as kushta (Saussurea lappa) that enhances skin texture and promotes healing, chitrakmool (Plumbago zeylanica) detoxifies the body and supports digestion, saptaparna (Alstonia scholaris) exhibits wound-healing properties, bakuchi (Psoralea corylifolia) reduces pigmentation and inflammation. Whereas, gandhak (Purified Sulphur) has antibacterial and antifungal effects, rasona (Allium sativum) possesses antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties and aragwadha (Cassia fistula) with its anti-inflammatory and soothing actions is helpful in managing symptoms of the condition. All these herbal properties are beneficial in managing atopic dermatitis optimally.

How to use : 3 ml twice daily for local application.

5. Royal Honey Shower Gel

Planet Ayurveda’s Royal Honey Shower Gel is an Ayurvedic formulation designed to support skin health, especially beneficial for the condition of atopic dermatitis. It combines natural ingredients known for their soothing and moisturizing properties. It is composed of honey that acts as a natural humectant, drawing moisture into the skin and providing anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits, which help soothe irritated skin, aloe vera extract known for its cooling and anti-inflammatory properties, it helps to calm inflamed skin and promote healing, vitamin E protects the skin from oxidative stress and supports skin barrier function and tea tree extract has antimicrobial properties, assisting in preventing skin infections associated with dermatitis. Regular use of this shower gel helps maintain skin hydration, reduce irritation, and support overall skin health, making it a suitable choice for individuals with atopic dermatitis.

How to use : Use for bathing.

Conclusion

Ayurveda is emerging as a natural and holistic solution for managing Atopic Dermatitis, offering long-term relief by addressing the root imbalances in the body. Unlike conventional treatments that often focus on symptom control, Ayurvedic care works to balance the doshas, detoxify the system, and support skin healing from within. Herbal remedies, lifestyle adjustments, and personalized therapies form the core of this approach. The inclusion of specialized herbal formulations like the Atopic Dermatitis Care Pack by Planet Ayurveda further enhances the effectiveness of Ayurvedic treatment for Atopic Dermatitis. With ingredients known for their skin-soothing, blood-purifying, and anti-inflammatory properties, this pack supports the body’s natural healing process without harmful side effects. As awareness grows, more individuals are turning to Ayurveda for safe, effective, and sustainable skin health solutions. Combining ancient wisdom with modern needs, Ayurveda continues to offer hope and healing for those struggling with chronic skin conditions namely Atopic Dermatitis.