Urticaria

Urticaria 

Shitapitta is an Ayurvedic term that refers to allergic conditions or skin hypersensitivity. It is often correlated with modern conditions like urticaria (hives) or allergic skin reactions. Shitapitta arises due to the imbalance of Vata and Kapha doshas, along with an aggravation of Pitta dosha, which causes hypersensitivity in the body. This leads to symptoms like red, itchy rashes, swelling, burning sensations, and sometimes systemic allergic reactions. The Ayurvedic approach focuses on balancing the doshas, detoxifying the body, and enhancing immunity.

Causes of Shitapitta in Ayurveda

1. Dosha Imbalance:
   • Aggravation of Vata and Kapha weakens the skin and immune response.
   • Aggravation of Pitta leads to redness, itching, and inflammation.
2. External Triggers:
   • Exposure to allergens such as pollen, dust, or certain foods.
   • Extreme weather conditions like cold winds or excessive heat.
3. Internal Factors:
   • Poor digestion leading to the accumulation of Ama (toxins).
   • Stress and emotional imbalances.

Symptoms of Shitapitta

• Red, raised, or swollen patches on the skin (similar to hives).
• Intense itching and burning sensation.
• Flare-ups triggered by allergens or certain foods.
• Sometimes accompanied by fever, headache, or digestive discomfort.

Ayurvedic Management of Shitapitta

The treatment aims to pacify the aggravated doshas, detoxify the body, and strengthen the immune system.

1. Herbal Remedies

• Haridra (Turmeric):
  • Anti-inflammatory and antihistaminic properties.
  • Consumed as a decoction or in milk (Golden Milk).
• Neem (Azadirachta indica):
  • Antibacterial and blood-purifying properties.
  • Used in decoctions or applied topically as neem paste.
• Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia):
  • Purifies the blood and helps with inflammation.
  • Consumed as a powder or in formulations like Mahamanjishthadi Kwath.
• Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia):
  • A potent immunomodulator and detoxifier.
  • Helps balance all three doshas and supports skin health.
• Triphala:
  • A combination of three fruits (Amla, Haritaki, Bibhitaki) that promotes detoxification and balances doshas.
• Khadira (Acacia catechu):
  • A classical herb for skin conditions.
  • Commonly used in Khadirarishta, a fermented herbal formulation.
• Yashtimadhu (Licorice):
  • Soothes inflammation and promotes skin healing.
  • Can be taken as a tea or paste.

2. External Applications

• Neem Paste:
  • Apply a paste made from neem leaves to soothe itching and inflammation.
• Aloe Vera Gel:
  • Its cooling properties reduce redness, burning, and swelling.
• Sandalwood Paste:
  • Mixed with rose water, it provides cooling and anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Turmeric and Coconut Oil:
  • A mixture of turmeric powder and coconut oil can be applied to rashes to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
• Camphor and Sesame Oil:
  • Used for cooling and reducing itching.

3. Panchakarma Therapy

Detoxification therapies help eliminate toxins (Ama) and balance the doshas.

• Virechana (Purgation Therapy):
  • Removes excess Pitta and toxins, relieving inflammation and allergies.
• Raktamokshana (Bloodletting):
  • Recommended for chronic or severe cases of allergic skin reactions to purify the blood.
• Abhyanga (Oil Massage):
  • Uses medicated oils to soothe the skin and balance Vata and Kapha doshas.
• Swedana (Fomentation):
  • Steam therapy opens the pores and helps eliminate toxins through sweat.

4. Dietary Guidelines

A balanced diet can help pacify aggravated doshas and promote healing.

• Avoid Pitta-Aggravating Foods:
  • Spicy, sour, salty, and fermented foods.
  • Processed foods and alcohol.
• Include Cooling Foods:
  • Cucumber, watermelon, coconut water, and leafy greens.
• Anti-Inflammatory Foods:
  • Turmeric, ginger, and amla.
• Hydrating Diet:
  • Drink plenty of water and include soups and herbal teas.
• Avoid Allergenic Foods:
  • Foods like dairy, seafood, and nuts may trigger reactions in some people.

5. Lifestyle Modifications

Adopting a healthy lifestyle helps manage Shitapitta effectively.

• Reduce Stress:
  • Stress is a major trigger for allergic reactions. Practice yoga, meditation, and pranayama to manage stress.
• Wear Comfortable Clothing:
  • Avoid tight or synthetic fabrics that irritate the skin.
• Avoid Triggers:
  • Identify and avoid known allergens like certain foods, dust, or extreme temperatures.
• Adequate Sleep:
  • Rest is essential for recovery and reducing inflammation.

6. Yoga and Pranayama

Yoga and breathing exercises help in calming the mind, reducing stress, and balancing the doshas.

• Yoga Poses:
  • Shavasana (Corpse Pose): For relaxation.
  • Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose): Enhances circulation.
  • Balasana (Child’s Pose): Reduces stress.
• Pranayama Techniques:
  • Anulom Vilom (Alternate Nostril Breathing): Balances doshas.
  • Sheetali Pranayama: Cooling breath to reduce Pitta-related symptoms.

Ayurvedic Formulations for Shitapitta

• Khadirarishta: Blood purifier and detoxifier.
• Haridrakhandam: A classical formulation for allergic skin conditions.
• Arogyavardhini Vati: Promotes detoxification and liver health.
• Mahamanjishthadi Kwath: Improves skin health by purifying the blood.

Shitapitta (urticaria or skin allergies) can be effectively managed with Ayurveda by addressing the root cause, detoxifying the body, and adopting a holistic lifestyle. Ayurvedic treatments focus on balancing the doshas, purifying the blood, and enhancing immunity. For the best results, consult an experienced Ayurvedic practitioner to design a personalized treatment plan based on your body constitution (Prakriti) and condition.

 

Ayurworld offers a complete cure for this condition. If you are suffering with Urticaria, Book your Consultation now with one of our Ayurvedic Practitioner.