Urticaria- Manifestation, Causes, Symptoms, and Ayurvedic Treatment

If you’ve observed red or skin-coloured lumps that develop and disappear fast, then they might probably not be just mosquito bites. Hives, also known as urticaria, might cause this skin rash. This can cause itching ranging from minor to severe, and around 20% of people might have been affected by it at some point in their life. Many people question if Ayurveda can cure urticaria or not. Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine, has been used for over 5000 years and provides a comprehensive approach for treating multiple kinds of diseases, including skin problems such as urticaria or Sheetapitta. Stay with us to see how Ayurveda can help manage and cure urticaria successfully.

Ayurvedic manifestation of Sheetapitta

In Ayurveda, urticaria is known as Sheetapitta, which is a condition caused by a Pitta imbalance exacerbated by cold and moist components. Urvikshaya, or eruptive, itchy, and red skin elevations, is an external manifestation of vitiated Pitta. These eruptions resemble the form of a sesame seed (tilalike), and they can vary in size and location. The symptoms may include a burning feeling (Daha), exacerbated Pitta, and discomfort. Sheetapitta is caused by an accumulation of ama (toxins) in the body, which exacerbates the doshic imbalance.

Signs and symptoms

In urticaria, symptoms can grow and become more severe. This is known as a flare, and the improvements in the symptoms are called remissions.

  • Red, itchy skin
  • Inflamed skin
  • Raised red welts
  • Pricking sensations
  • Twitching pain,
  • Fever
  • Lethargy
  • Burning sensations
  • Nausea (in severe conditions)

Causes

According to Ayurveda, urticaria (Sheetapitta) occurs mostly due to the aggravation of Kapha and Vata doshas. This imbalance can be caused by numerous reasons, including:

  • Dietary Factors: Consumption of incompatible foods (Viruddha Ahara) that include cold, greasy, and heavy foods can raise Kapha, which can further promote urticaria (Sheetapitta).
  • Environmental Factors: Environmental factors include exposure to cold weather, rapid temperature fluctuations, and allergies.
  • Lifestyle Factors: Lifestyle factors include irregular eating habits, insufficient sleep, and excessive stress levels.
  • Allergies: The allergies include pollen, dust mites, animal dander, bug bites, some medicines, and food allergies such as nuts, shellfish, and eggs that can contribute to urticaria.
  • Internal factors: Digestive disorders can cause the accumulation of ama (toxins) in the body, resulting in skin eruptions.

Diagnosing Urticaria in Ayurvedic Medicine

Urticaria therapy in Ayurvedic principles depends upon every individual’s prakriti (constitution), vikriti (present dosha imbalance), and the specific aspects of the skin eruptions. To determine the underlying cause of the urticaria, the vaidya examines the patient’s eating habits, lifestyle, and emotional condition. Pulse diagnosis (Nadi Pariksha) and tongue examination (Jihva Pariksha) are examined to get further information.

Ayurvedic Treatment of Sheetapitta

The Ayurvedic therapy for Sheetapitta takes a comprehensive approach, seeking to soothe the disturbed doshas, eliminate toxins, and restore balance.

  • Shodhana (Purification Therapies): Vamana (therapeutic emesis), Virechan (therapeutic purgation), and Basti (medicated enemas) are used to remove toxins and restore digestive function.
  • Shamana (Purgative Therapies): Oral herbs with cooling, anti-inflammatory, and anti-allergic characteristics are used to balance Pitta and relieve symptoms.
  • External therapies: External therapies such as Abhyanga (oil massage with medicinal oils) and Lepa (herbal pastes) can alleviate pain and inflammation.
  • Diet and Lifestyle: To prevent recurrences, it’s important to eat cool and easily digested meals, exercise regularly, get enough sleep, and avoid stress.

By treating the root cause and adopting a comprehensive approach, Ayurveda provides a promising way to manage Sheetapitta and improve overall skin health.

Ayurvedic Herbs Used for Urticaria Treatment

In Ayurveda, Urticaria (Sheetapitta) is treated extensively to address the body’s root imbalances. Here are some Ayurvedic herbs that will help fight against urticaria symptoms:

Neem (Azadirachta indica): Neem is a well-known Ayurvedic herb with potent anti-inflammatory and cleaning effects. Neem leaves or their supplements can help in blood purification and decrease inflammation caused by urticaria.

Curcuma longa (turmeric): Turmeric is commonly used in ayurvedic medicine for treating skin allergies and itching due to its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. For relief from urticaria symptoms, blend turmeric powder with warm milk or add it to your everyday routine.

Aloe Vera: Aloe vera gel has been praised for its soothing and cooling benefits on the skin. One can apply natural aloe vera gel directly to the afflicted regions and get relief from urticaria irritation and inflammation.

Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia): Manjistha is a plant used in Ayurveda to cleanse the blood and improve skin health. It may help cure urticaria by lowering inflammation and increasing detoxification.

Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia): Guduchi is an Ayurvedic plant that has immunomodulatory and anti-allergic effects. It can help to improve the immune system and reduce the hypersensitivity that might lead to urticaria.

Triphala: Triphala, is a combination of three fruits (amla, bibhitaki, and haritaki) and is very popular in Ayurveda for its cleansing and revitalizing effects. Intake of Triphala powder or pills could help with digestion and detoxification.

How Long Will It Take Ayurveda to Improve Urticaria?

Most patients who choose Ayurvedic treatment for newly formed urticaria (Sheetapitta) get a complete cure for it within four to six months. However, ongoing urticaria might take up to a year to treat properly. However, patients with autoimmune conditions may need long-term Ayurvedic treatment. Early therapy involves a thorough diagnosis and the identification of all root causes.

However, adopting proper lifestyle modifications (Dinacharya) and avoiding known aggravating eating habits (Ahara) are critical for preventing relapses. In simple terms, Ayurveda focuses on a comprehensive approach that includes herbal medicines, dietary changes, and lifestyle changes to restore balance and encourage recovery over the long run.

An Integrative Approach

While modern medicine focuses on symptom treatment and identifying triggers, Ayurveda targets the root cause of the problem by balancing doshas and detoxifying the body. Ayurveda involves herbal medicines and cleansing therapies, whereas contemporary medicine relies on drugs such as antihistamines and corticosteroids. Both techniques have distinct advantages, and incorporating them into a holistic management plan can be effective. The choice between contemporary medicine and Ayurveda is based on personal preferences, disease severity, and treatment response. However, an integrated strategy that incorporates the qualities of both can give a comprehensive view and potentially improve urticaria management.

Conclusion

Dealing with the itch and pain of urticaria can be stressful, but Ayurveda provides a detailed and comprehensive approach to treatment. By addressing the imbalances and adopting a supportive lifestyle, you can find relief and enhance your overall well-being. Remember that every person is unique, so what works for one person may not work for another. For personalized guidance, speak with a qualified Vaidya. With patience, determination, and the appropriate strategy, you can successfully control urticaria and live a healthier, itch-free lifestyle.