Dyshidrosis – Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment

Dyshidrosis, also known as pompholyx or dyshidrotic eczema, is a skin condition which causes small, fluid-filled vesicles on the palms and soles. These blisters, which can cause intense itching, usually dry up in 3 weeks, leaving behind painful fissures. Female sex, stress, a history of seasonal allergies, exposure to metal salts, and frequent exposure to water, are risk factors for this condition.

The Ayurvedic treatment of dyshidrosis is aimed at treating the rash and reducing itching and pain. Medicines like Arogya-Vardhini, Gandhak-Rasayan, Maha-Manjishthadi-Qadha, Saarivasav, Panch-Tikta-Ghrut-Guggulu, Manjishtha (Rubia cordifolia), Saariva (Hemidesmus indicus), Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), Nimba (Azadirachta indica), Haridra (Curcuma longa), Takla (Clerodendron phomodis), Karanj (Pongamia pinnata), Khadeer (Acacia catechu), Vidang (Embilia ribes) and Bhrungraj (Eclipta alba) are given orally to treat the blisters and the itching.

Panch-Tikta-Ghrut-Guggulu, Kaishor-Guggulu, Vat-Gajankush-Ras and Maha-Vat-Vidhwans-Ras are used to control the pain. Patients who do not respond to this treatment can be given other medicines like Kutki (Picrorrhiza kurroa), Patol (Tricosanthe dioica), Patha (Cissampelos pareira), Musta (Cyperus rotundus) and Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia). Medicines like Mandukparni (Centella asiatica), Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis) and Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi) are used to reduce stress.

Medicines like Panch-Tikta-Ghrut, Yashtimadhuk-Ghrut, Shatadhout-Ghrut and an equal mixture of ghee and honey are used for local application on the affected parts. An ointment containing Manjishtha, Saariva, Haridra, Daruharidra (Berberis aristata), Nimba, Chandan (Santalum album), Usheer (Vetiveria zizanioidis) and Mandukparni can also be used for this purpose. These medicines help to treat the rash, reduce itching and pain, and heal the fissures.

The rash of dyshidrosis usually clears up in 3 to 4 weeks. Ayurvedic medicines can be used both to treat the disease and to prevent its recurrence. Affected individuals should learn to manage stress, avoid aggravating factors, limit skin exposure to water, and use moisturizers after washing the hands and feet.