What Are Ayurvedic Treatments for Eczema? Causes, Treatment & Healing

Eczema, also known as Vicharchika in Ayurveda, is a chronic skin disorder that causes itching, redness, dryness, inflammation, and sometimes oozing of the skin. This skin condition can be highly uncomfortable and may impact the quality of life for many. While modern medicine offers various ointments and steroid-based treatments to manage eczema symptoms, Ayurveda goes a step further by addressing the root cause using natural remedies, herbs, diet, and lifestyle changes.

In this blog, we will explore:

What is Eczema in Ayurveda?

In Ayurveda, eczema is known as “Vicharchika”, and it is considered a type of Kushtha (skin disorder). Ayurveda believes that the body functions with a balance of three doshas – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. When this balance is disturbed due to poor diet, lifestyle, or mental health, it leads to diseases.

Eczema is mainly caused by the imbalance of all three doshas, especially Pitta and Kapha.

According to Ayurvedic texts:

• Vata causes dryness and itching.

• Pitta causes redness, inflammation, and a burning sensation.

• Kapha leads to oozing and thickening of the skin.
  

Ayurvedic treatment focuses on restoring doshic balance using internal and external therapies.

Causes of Eczema in Ayurveda

Ayurveda identifies several factors that may lead to eczema or Vicharchika. These include:

1. Poor Digestion (Agnimandya)

Weak digestive fire causes the accumulation of Ama (toxins) in the body, which gets deposited in the skin and causes eczema.

2. Imbalanced Diet

Consuming incompatible foods such as fish with milk, too much spicy or oily food, or processed items may aggravate doshas.

3. Stress and Mental Factors

Long-term stress and suppressed emotions disturb Vata and Pitta, which can result in skin disorders.

4. Environmental Triggers

Exposure to allergens, pollution, and harsh chemicals may worsen eczema symptoms.

5. Improper Daily Routine

Irregular sleeping habits, lack of exercise, and poor hygiene can trigger skin issues.

Common Symptoms of Eczema (Vicharchika)

The Ayurvedic symptoms of eczema include:

• Itching (Kandu)

• Redness (Raga)

• Oozing or fluid discharge (Srava)

• Dryness and flakiness (Rukshta)

• Skin discoloration (Vaivarnyata)

• Burning sensation (Daha)

• Thickened or scaly skin
  

These symptoms can appear on hands, legs, face, or any part of the body and may flare up periodically.

Ayurvedic Treatment for Eczema: Holistic & Natural

Ayurvedic Eczema Treatment: The Three-Fold Approach

Ayurveda follows a three-dimensional healing process to manage eczema:

1. Shodhana (Cleansing Therapy):
   This is a detoxification process that eliminates toxins and purifies the body from within.

2. Shamana (Palliative Therapy):
   This step focuses on balancing the aggravated doshas using herbs, oils, and dietary adjustments.

3. Nidana Parivarjana (Avoiding the Cause):
   The most important step — identifying and avoiding the triggers such as certain foods, lifestyle habits, or environmental factors that worsen eczema.

Let’s understand these Ayurvedic treatments in detail.

1. Panchakarma Therapy – The Detoxification Treatment

Panchakarma is Ayurveda’s most powerful detoxification therapy. It consists of five cleansing procedures that help expel deep-seated toxins and restore dosha balance. It’s often considered the first step in treating chronic eczema.

A. Virechana (Purgation Therapy)

• Best suited when Pitta dosha is dominant.

• It purifies the liver, gall bladder, and intestines.

• Helps remove accumulated toxins and reduces skin inflammation.
  

B. Raktamokshana (Bloodletting Therapy)

• Focuses on purifying the blood.

• Can be done through leech therapy or controlled extraction using syringes.

• Extremely beneficial for itchy, red, or oozing eczema.
  

C. Abhyanga (Ayurvedic Oil Massage)

• Uses warm herbal oils to pacify Vata dosha and improve circulation.

• Moisturizes dry and scaly skin while relaxing the mind.
  

D. Swedana (Herbal Steam Therapy)

• Induces sweating to remove toxins through skin pores.

• Helps soften dry patches and reduce stiffness.
  

E. Basti (Medicated Enema Therapy)

• A cleansing procedure to pacify Vata dosha and improve gut health.

• A healthy digestive system is essential to prevent toxin formation (ama).
  

⚠️ Note: Panchakarma therapies must be performed under expert Ayurvedic supervision only.

2. Herbal Ayurvedic Medicines for Eczema

Ayurvedic herbs play a central role in eczema treatment. They purify the blood, boost immunity, and reduce inflammation naturally. These herbs are available in the form of powders (churna), decoctions (kwath), oils (taila), or tablets.

A. Neem (Azadirachta Indica)

• Known as the Queen of Skin Remedies.

• Acts as a natural blood purifier and anti-inflammatory agent.

• Reduces itching, irritation, and bacterial infection.

• Used as paste, oil, or capsules.
  

B. Manjistha (Rubia Cordifolia)

• Excellent herb for blood and lymphatic purification.

• Helps detoxify skin tissues and supports healing.

• Commonly used in decoction or powder form.
  

C. Haridra (Turmeric)

• Powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant herb.

• Balances Pitta dosha and prevents flare-ups.

• Can be used both internally (with milk) and externally (as paste).
  

D. Khadira (Acacia Catechu)

• Beneficial for oozing and wet eczema.

• Helps dry wounds and purify the blood.

• Used in decoctions or herbal formulations.
  

E. Aloe Vera (Kumari)

• Soothes itching, redness, and burning sensation.

• Hydrates dry skin naturally and promotes cell regeneration.

• Best used as fresh gel or natural moisturizer.
  

F. Triphala

• A combination of Haritaki, Bibhitaki, and Amalaki.

• Promotes digestion and detoxification.

• Prevents toxin accumulation that can worsen eczema symptoms.

3. Ayurvedic Oils for Eczema

Topical oils are an important part of eczema care in Ayurveda. They help reduce dryness, itching, and flakiness while nourishing the skin.

Best Ayurvedic Oils for Eczema:

• Nalpamaradi Thailam: Ideal for oozing, red, or inflamed eczema.

• Karanja Oil: Possesses antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.

• Jatyadi Oil: Helps heal wounds and restore damaged skin.

• Mahamarichyadi Oil: Effective in treating fungal or chronic eczema.
  

Usage Tip: Gently massage the affected areas with warm oil twice a day to relieve itching and improve skin texture.

4. Ayurvedic Home Remedies for Eczema

If you want natural relief at home, these simple Ayurvedic remedies can help soothe your skin and prevent flare-ups.

1. Neem Leaves Bath

• Boil a handful of neem leaves in water.

• Use this water for bathing to reduce itching, redness, and infection.
  

2. Turmeric and Milk Paste

• Mix 1 tsp turmeric with warm milk to form a paste.

• Apply it on eczema patches to reduce inflammation and bacteria.
  

3. Aloe Vera Gel Application

• Apply fresh aloe vera gel on affected skin daily.

• Soothes burning, hydrates dry skin, and prevents cracks.
  

4. Sandalwood Paste

• Mix sandalwood powder with rose water and apply.

• Has cooling and antiseptic properties — perfect for Pitta-type eczema.
  

5. Oatmeal Soak (Ayurvedic Style)

• Mix oats with rose water and apply as a mild scrub.

• Gently exfoliates and soothes irritated, inflamed skin.

5. Ayurvedic Diet for Eczema (Ahara Therapy)

Ayurveda emphasizes that “food is medicine.” A proper diet helps balance doshas, strengthen digestion (Agni), and minimize eczema symptoms.

Foods to Avoid:

• Spicy, oily, and fried foods

• Sour items like curd, vinegar, and fermented foods

• Seafood and red meat

• Excess salt and sugar

• Alcohol, cold beverages, and junk food
  

Foods to Include:

• Fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables

• Whole grains like rice, barley, and wheat

• Amla (Indian Gooseberry) for natural vitamin C

• Spices like cumin, coriander, fennel, and turmeric

• Buttermilk (thin and diluted) to improve digestion

• Cow’s ghee for skin nourishment and lubrication

Hydration Tip: Drink lukewarm water throughout the day to flush out toxins and support skin detox.

Lifestyle Changes for Long-Term Relief

To manage eczema successfully, lifestyle changes are equally important.

• Practice regular yoga and meditation to manage stress.

• Follow a daily routine (Dinacharya) and sleep cycle.

• Avoid scratching or using chemical-based soaps.

• Wear cotton and breathable clothes.

• Keep skin moisturized with herbal oils.

• Avoid excessive sun exposure.
  

Modern Medicine vs Ayurveda: Which is Better?

Ayurveda may take longer but offers natural and sustainable healing for eczema without harsh chemicals.

FAQs on Ayurvedic Treatment for Eczema

1. Is Ayurveda effective in curing eczema permanently?
Ayurveda aims to treat the root cause of eczema by balancing the doshas and purifying the body. While results vary, many patients experience long-term relief with consistent treatment, lifestyle changes, and diet control.

2. Can I apply coconut oil on eczema as per Ayurveda?
Yes, coconut oil is recommended in Ayurveda for its cooling and moisturizing properties. It helps reduce dryness and itching. For better results, you can mix it with turmeric or neem oil.

3. Are there any side effects of Ayurvedic medicines for eczema?
Most Ayurvedic medicines are made from natural herbs and are safe when taken under professional guidance. However, self-medication can lead to side effects, so always consult an Ayurvedic practitioner.

4. How long does Ayurvedic treatment take to show results in eczema?
Results depend on the severity of eczema and your body constitution. Some people see improvement in 2–4 weeks, while others may take 2–3 months. Consistency with herbs, diet, and lifestyle is essential.

5. What foods should I avoid during Ayurvedic treatment for eczema?
Avoid spicy, sour, fermented, and processed foods. Stay away from dairy like curd and cheese, fried snacks, sugar, and junk food. These aggravate Pitta and Kapha dosha and worsen eczema symptoms.

Final Thoughts: Healing Eczema Naturally Through Ayurveda

Eczema can be emotionally and physically draining, but Ayurveda provides a natural, safe, and effective solution by treating the root cause instead of just suppressing symptoms. Whether through detox therapies like Panchakarma, herbal formulations, or changes in diet and lifestyle, Ayurvedic treatment restores balance to the body and supports healthy skin from within.

If you’re dealing with eczema, consider consulting an experienced Ayurvedic practitioner and adopting this ancient wisdom for long-term skin health.