Frequently Asked Questions & Answers about Psoriasis What is psoriasis? It is a chronic skin disease characterized by dry skin and raised, rough, red areas on the skin covered with fine silvery scales. Erythematous, well defined dry scaly papules and plaques ranges from pin head to palm sized. Whether Psoriasis is mentioned in Ayurveda? Yes. Kiṭibha of Ayurvedic literature is compared and accepted with Psoriasis of Modern Medical diagnosis. As per Ayurveda what are the causes Psoriasis? • Intake of mutually contradictory food like fish and milk, intake of unctuous and heavy drinks • Suppression of natural urges like vomiting, sleep, thirst etc. • Physical exercise in excess heat climate or after taking heavy meal. • Intake of cold water immediately after exposing to scorching sun; • Intake of uncooked food and food before the previous meal is digested • Violation of laws of Panchakarma (5 purification procedures) • Excess intake of foods fresh grains, curd, fish, salt and soar substances • Excess intake of black gram, radish, pastry, sesame seeds, milk, jaggery • Sexual act in the state of indigestion; day sleep, performing sinful acts etc. are the causes. These aetiological factors can also be considered as triggering factors/ preventive measures and to be avoided in the course of treatment. As per conventional system of medicine what are the causes of psoriasis? The exact causes of psoriasis are not known. Genetic factors, immune response etc is responsible for psoriasis. Who can get psoriasis? Is there any age or sex discrimination? Psoriasis affects people of all age group. However, the adult population is most affected. People with a family history of psoriasis are at an increased risk. Male and female groups are equally suffered. Peak age groups are 15 to 40 and 50 and 60 years. Is Psoriasis a contagious disease? No, Psoriasis is not a contagious disease. Whether psoriasis triggers in different seasons? Seasonal changes play a vital role in psoriasis outbreaks. The extra sunlight during summer improves the health and decreases the symptoms while the cold and dry air of winter triggers. What are the treatment options for psoriasis in Ayurveda and Panchakarma? Based on involvement and range of vitiation of body humours Ayurvedic treatment can be planned with various range of external applications, internal Ayurveda medications, Panchakarma Therapies like Snehana (Oleation), Vamana, Virechana, Basti, Raktamokshana. Leech therapy is also indicated in certain group of patients. Does psoriasis have a permanent cure? In conventional system of medicine there is no known permanent cure for psoriasis. Even through in Ayurveda also permanent cure may or may not be achieved. It depends on many factors. But comparatively more symptomatic relief and increased relapsing time can be achieved through Ayurved and Panchakarma therapies.Non relapsing cases through Ayurveda are also observed. Are there any dietary restrictions for Psoriasis? Normal diet is indicated in all types of skin diseases. Sour, salty, heat producing items like pepper etc.; curd, milk, jaggery, sesame seeds, black gram are contraindicated; alcoholic drinks are to be avoided; old rice barley, green gram, bitter vegetables are wholesome.