Originating in India thousands of years ago, Ayurvedic medicinal treatments are classified as complementary and alternative medicine, or CAM, in the United States. While complementary medicines accompany conventional medical treatment, alternative medicine replaces it. Ayurvedic treatments are generally viewed as an option when standard treatments have been found unsatisfactory. Ayurvedic principles are designed to resist physical maladies by unifying an individual’s body, mind and spirit, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM).
Agencies such NCCAM have very little information regarding scientific research pertaining to Ayurvedic treatments, including those used for itching. Ayurvedic treatments for itching and other maladies should be used with care and the inclusion of physician consultation. Use of these and other alternative treatments should be discontinued in the event of any negative side effects. This article is not intended to replace conventional medical practices.
Definition of Itching
Itching or pruritus is an urge to scratch an irritated or uncomfortable sensation of the skin. Itching can be the result of an allergic reaction to food or seasonal occurrences like molds or pollen. Itching is also a symptom commonly associated with chronic conditions like eczema and psoriasis. Stress can also cause itching in individuals. The occurrence of itching can be widespread, affecting numerous areas of the body, or it can be localized to one specific area.
What is Ayurveda?
The term Ayurveda is a combination of the Sanskrit words ayus meaning life or lifespan and veda, which means knowledge. Sustaining a healthy and well-balanced life is the cornerstone principle of Ayurveda. Ayurveda is divided into two categories: the traditional and Maharishi. Positive emotions, cheerful outlook, and elevated consciousness through meditation are essential components of Maharishi ayurveda. Both forms of Ayurveda rely on the use of herbal treatments to balance and heal the dosha or body energy. Energy balance can be negatively effected by poor diet, stress and an individual’s environment. Ayurvedic medicinal treatments can be used for preventive healthcare management.
Non-medicinal Treatment for Itching
Because itching is such a common condition, many treatments are casual and non-medical. Sufferers of chronic skin ailments find some relief from cool water or ice packs. Cool showers can offer a brief respite from some cases of generalized head-to-toe itching. However, these methods only offer temporary help. They are recognized and accepted as home remedies in western traditional medicine.
Karen Flam, Executive Director of the Aromatherapy Alliance, has made use of Ayurveda and suggests that non-herbal Ayurvedic treatments that offer temporary relief of itching are plain yogurt, goat's milk and ghee, which is a clarified butter used in Indian cooking.
Popular Ayurveda Ingredients
Dashang Lepa is an Ayurvedic treatment in the form of 10 powdered herbs. It relieves itching associated with psoriasis, rash and dermatitis, according to Ayurvedic-Medicines.org . Neem oil is believed to be an effective treatment for itching and swelling due to sprains or arthritis. Neem powder is often used by Ayurvedic practitioners who believe it to be a cure for skin infections. Marichaida Taila is an Ayurvedic oil used for the treatment of skin infections and itching. Gandhak is commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine to promote skin health. Other uses include the treatment of erectile dysfunction, ringworm, scabies, abscesses and furuncles. Apamarga is a plant used to treat coughing, piles, itching and abdominal pain. An Ayurvedic practitioner should be consulted for guidance as to the appropriate Ayurvedic treatment for your condition.
Toxicity
Ayurvedic treatments are available globally in vitamin and health food stores. There are also many websites offering Ayurvedic medicines for both internal and external use in the form of powders, pills, creams and ointments. It is advisable that individuals seeking alternative medicinal treatments consult with a physician before using these medications. A number of Ayurvedic ingredients have been found to contain lead and mercury. Continued unsupervised use of these herbal ingredients can lead to illnesses other than those initially being treated. The Centers for Disease Control has received reports relating to Ayurvedic treatments of symptoms indicating lead intoxication, including irritability, fatigue, abdominal pain, arthralgias and varied neurological abnormalities.
References
- NCCAM: What is CAM?
- NCCAM: Ayurvedic Medicine Introduction
- Ayurvedic Medicines: Ayurveda and Itching
- Karen Flam; Executive Director of the Aromatherapy Alliance; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
