Eczema (ખરજવુ)

Ayurvedic View of Eczema (Vicharchika)

Eczema, known in Ayurveda as Vicharchika, is a chronic skin disorder that falls under the group of Kushta (skin diseases). According to Ayurveda, Vicharchika occurs when there is a disturbance in the balance of the three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Although all doshas play a role, Vata and Kapha are the main contributors, while Pitta often adds inflammation and burning.

Eczema begins when improper diet, lifestyle habits, stress, or environmental triggers weaken digestion (Agni). Poor digestion leads to the formation of metabolic toxins called Ama. These toxins circulate in the bloodstream and accumulate in the skin, disturbing its normal functioning. Over time, this causes inflammation, dryness, itching, and thickened patches.

Role of Doshas in Eczema

• Vata causes dryness, roughness, flaking, and cracks.

• Pitta creates redness, heat, burning, and inflammation.

• Kapha contributes to oozing, heaviness, thick skin, and persistent itching.

When these doshas accumulate in the Rasa and Rakta dhatus (skin and blood tissues), they block microchannels (Srotas), weakening the skin’s immunity. This leads to flare-ups that come and go, often triggered by certain foods, climate, or emotional stress.

Ayurveda views eczema as a deep-rooted systemic disorder, not only a surface skin issue. Hence, treatment focuses on balancing doshas, removing toxins, cooling inflammation, strengthening digestion, and restoring skin immunity. Herbs like Neem, Turmeric, Manjistha, Guduchi, Haridra, Khadira and soothing external applications like coconut oil, ghee-based ointments, medicated oils, and herbal pastes play a major role. In chronic cases, Panchakarma—such as Virechan (detox), Raktamokshan (blood purification), or Takra Dhara—may be recommended.

Symptoms of Eczema (Vicharchika)

Eczema symptoms vary depending on the dosha dominance, but common signs include:

1. Intense Itching

The most prominent symptom, often worse at night or when sweating increases.

2. Dryness and Flaking

Vata imbalance causes dry, rough patches and cracked skin.

3. Redness and Inflammation

Pitta dominance leads to warmth, redness, swelling, and burning sensations.

4. Oozing or Discharge

Kapha imbalance may cause sticky discharge, blisters, or moist patches.

5. Thickened or Darkened Skin

Due to chronic scratching and repeated flare-ups.

6. Rashes Appearing in Cycles

Eczema often comes and goes, worsening with triggers like stress, winter, spicy foods, or chemical exposure.

7. Sensitivity to Heat or Allergens

Heat, synthetic clothes, perfumes, or harsh soaps may irritate the skin.

8. Cracks, Pain, and Secondary Infection

When Vata is severe, skin may crack and become painful. In some cases, infection can develop due to open wounds.

Prevention of Eczema: Ayurvedic Guidelines

Ayurveda emphasizes prevention by balancing doshas, improving digestion, and strengthening skin immunity.

1. Maintain Strong Digestion (Agni)

Good digestion prevents toxin formation.

• Eat fresh, warm, home-cooked meals.

• Avoid heavy, oily, stale, fermented foods.

• Do not overeat or eat at irregular times.

• Sip warm water throughout the day.

2. Follow a Dosha-Balancing Diet

Avoid foods that worsen eczema:

• Spicy, sour, fried, fermented foods

• Excess salt

• Red chili, pickles, vinegar

• Dairy-heavy foods (especially curd at night)

• Seafood with milk

• Junk foods, carbonated drinks, packaged snacks

Include cooling and healing foods:

• Ghee, coconut oil, fresh fruits

• Amla, cucumber, leafy greens

• Moong dal, whole grains

• Warm herbal teas (coriander, cumin, fennel)

3. Manage Stress

Stress increases Vata and Pitta, triggering flare-ups.
Ayurveda recommends:

• Meditation

• Yoga (especially cooling asanas)

• Pranayama: Sheetali, Sheetkari, Nadi Shodhana

• Regular sleep and relaxation routines

4. Maintain Skin Hygiene

• Use mild, herbal soaps (neem, sandal, aloe).

• Avoid hot showers; use lukewarm water.

• Apply coconut oil or medicated ghee to soothe the skin.

• Avoid harsh chemicals, perfumes, and synthetic lotions.

5. Keep the Skin Moisturized Naturally

Dry skin worsens eczema.

• Use coconut oil, sesame oil, or herbal ointments.

• Avoid petroleum-based products that block pores.

6. Avoid Triggers

Identify and avoid personal triggers such as:

• Dust, chemicals, detergents

• Synthetic fabrics

• Excess sweating

• Heat exposure

• Emotional stress

• Seasonal changes

7. Wear Comfortable Clothing

• Choose loose, cotton, breathable clothes.

• Avoid wool, nylon, and tight-fitting clothes.

8. Strengthen Immunity

A strong immune system reduces flare-ups.

• Daily intake of Turmeric, Guduchi, Amla

• Proper sleep

• Regular physical activity

9. Regular Detoxification

Seasonal Ayurvedic detox helps remove ama (toxins):

• Simple home detox

• Herbal decoctions

• Panchakarma under guidance

Conclusion

Ayurveda sees eczema as a disorder involving both internal imbalance and external irritation. By improving digestion, balancing doshas, purifying the blood, and adopting healthy lifestyle habits, Ayurveda provides long-term relief and prevents frequent flare-ups. This holistic approach not only heals the skin but also promotes overall physical and emotional well-being.