10 Ayurvedic Treatment for Eczema

Eczema, sometimes known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that can occur over time. Its symptoms range from intense itching and redness to thickened or cracked skin. Multiple factors, such as genetics, environmental triggers, stress, and lifestyle habits, influence this condition.

In Ayurveda, eczema (Vicharchika) is seen as an imbalance in the body’s doshas, which accumulates toxins (Ama) and causes skin problems. Ayurvedic treatment for eczema aims to restore balance through a holistic approach that integrates detoxification (Sodhana) to remove Ama, pacification (Samana) to calm aggravated doshas, and rejuvenation (Rasayana) to repair and nourish the skin.

In this article, we’ll cover each treatment along with Panchkarma Therapy, Ayurvedic medicines, topical remedies, herbal remedies, home remedies, dietary changes, lifestyle adjustments, and stress management techniques – providing a holistic roadmap for managing eczema naturally.

1. Sodhana (Purification)

Detoxification can remove toxins (Ama) from the body and restore balance. It’s used to:

Remove deep-seated toxins from the blood (Rakta), skin, and digestive tract.
Reduce inflammation, itching, and oozing by pacifying aggravated Pitta and Kapha.
Strengthen the immune system and prevents recurrent eczema flare-ups.
Improve digestion (Agni) to prevent toxin buildup in the future.

Panchakarma Therapy

Vamana (Therapeutic Emesis) is beneficial for Kapha-dominant eczema symptoms like thick, sticky, oozing lesions and excessive scaling. It cleanses the system, reducing skin inflammation and toxin accumulation.

Virechana (Therapeutic Purgation) is best suited for Pitta-dominated eczema, which presents red, inflamed, burning, and itchy rashes. It helps reduce skin irritation. It uses herbal laxatives like:

- - Triphala Churna
  - Avipattikar Churna
  - Aragwadhadi Kashaya

Basti (Medicated Enema) – used in Vata-related eczema, where the skin is dry, cracking, and rough patches are predominant.

Raktamokshana (Bloodletting) – used when the eczema is chronic and associated with pus, swelling, or excessive itching. It uses Leech Therapy (Jalauka Avacharana) and Siravyadha (Venesection), which removes inflammatory mediators, relieves itching, and speeds up skin healing.

Other detoxification methods used are:

Takra Dhara (Buttermilk Therapy)

Parisheka (Herbal Decoction Bath)

2. Samana (Pacification)

One of the core pillars of Ayurvedic treatments, Samana balances the aggravated doshas and alleviates eczema symptoms like itching, dryness, redness, and oozing. Samana reduces inflammation, balances moisture and oil, and detoxifying the blood.

Samana involves the use of herbal medicines that purify the blood, medical oils for soothing properties, and cleansing techniques that pacify the doshas. It addresses both the internal and external manifestations of eczema.

Khadirarishta – purifies the blood and reduces inflammation.
Nimbadi Kashayam – balances aggravated doshas.
Paolamooladi Kashayam – cleanses body.
Manjishtadi Kashayam – purifies blood.
Karanja Taila soothes inflammation and balances aggravated doshas.
Jatyadi Taila – supports wound healing and helps with external skin issues.
Kumkumadi Taila – helps improve skin luster and appearance. It reduces the appearance of scars and hyperpigmentation. It is suitable for all skin types.
Haridra Khand – aids in soothing skin irritation and improving skin health.
Parisheka (Medicated Wash) – wash the affected area with a decoction made from Neem, triphala, and Daruhardra (Berberis aristata).

3. Rasayana (Rejuvenation)

Rasayana is critical as it helps repair tissue and rejuvenate skin. It’s an Ayurvedic therapy that aims to strengthen the immune system and restore vitality. This treatment is vital for healing and preventing eczema flare-ups.

Mahatikta Ghrita – medicated ghee enriched with bitter herbs that purify the blood and reduce inflammation.
Panchatikta Ghrita – helps manage skin issues; uses traditional ingredients that have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

Shatavari Ghrita – offers cooling and hydrating benefits that soothe the skin.

Chyawanprash – a potent antioxidant herbal jam. This boosts overall immunity and supports skin repair.

Guduchi Satva – helps alleviate heat and burning sensations.

Manjisthadi Kwatha – detoxifies and promotes skin regeneration.

Haridra Khand – helps relieve symptoms of eczema caused by environmental triggers. It aids in soothing skin irritation and maintaining healthy skin, along with strengthening the immune system.

Brahma Rasayana – supports energy levels and manages stress.

4. Marma Therapy

Marma Therapy is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that focuses on stimulating the body’s vital energy points (Marmas). It’s an effective therapy for eczema, which is linked to poor digestion, stress, and toxin accumulation.

Marma Therapy for eczema can:

Enhance circulation
Supports detoxification
Calms aggravated doshas
Releases stress and emotional blockages
Improves skin texture and moisture balance

Key Marma Points for Eczema Relief:

Indrabasti Marma (Lower Leg Point) – blood purification
Talahridaya Marma (Palm Centre) – stress and skin balance
Kshipra Marma (Between Thumb and Index Finger) – detoxification
Hridaya Marma (Heart Point) – emotional healing and inflammation control
Nabhi Marma (Navel Centre) – gut healing and immunity boosting
Adhipati Marma (Crown of Head) – nervous system balance
Sphig Marma (Hip Joint) – Vata-Pitta Dosha balance

How is Marma Therapy Performed?

An Ayurvedic practitioner typically does marma therapy, but some points can be gently stimulated at home using self-massage techniques.

A herbal oil (such as Dhanwantharam oil or Karpasasthyadi oil) is applied to the Marma points.
A doctor applies pressure using fingers or the palm. Gentle circular motion is done to stimulate detoxification and improve blood circulation.
Additionally, deep breathing techniques are used after Marma therapy to enhance relaxation and detoxification. Herbal steam therapy is also used after Marma therapy to open pores and aid in detoxification.
Never allow a non medical Ayurveda person to perform Marma techniques in your body. A marma practitioner should have a recognised BAMS degree from a university and registered under any of the medical council in the state of India.

5. Ayurvedic Medicines for Eczema

Internal Administration

Patakanranjadhi Qwath – designed to support skin health. Consume as directed by your healthcare provider.

Cheriya Madhusnuhi Rasayanam – supports skin health and assists with managing eczema and related conditions. Take one teaspoon or 5ml twice a day after meals, or as directed by a physician.

Padavalamooladi Tablet – designed to support various dermatological and cosmetic concerns. Take 1-2 tablets twice a day before meals, or as directed by a healthcare provider.

Vajrakam Kashayam – helps with symptoms of eczema by reducing inflammation and irritation. Take 10-15 ml (for adults) or 5-10 ml (for children) twice a day before food, or as directed by a physician.

Manibhadra Leham – supports skin health. Take 10-15 ml (for adults) or 5-10 ml (for children) twice a day, or as directed by a physician.

Gandhak Rasayan – manages itching. Take in the morning and evening with milk, or as directed by a physician.

It’s advisable to seek advice from a healthcare professional or an Ayurvedic practitioner before taking any medications. Consider booking a free online consultation with us.

Ayurvedic Ointments and Creams for Eczema

Takzema Ointment – designed for various skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis. Apply 2-3 times a day, ideally after bathing.

Panchavalkadi Tailam – a skincare oil designed to help soothe eczema, dermatitis, and other inflammatory skin conditions. Use as directed by a physician.

Tuvrak Tail – an Ayurvedic oil for various skin concerns. Use as directed by your healthcare provider.

Ayyappalakera Tailam – an Ayurvedic herbal oil that manages skin issues. Use as directed by your physician.

Eladi Thailam – an Ayurvedic oil formulated to help manage eczema. It balances Vata and Kapha doshas and is recognized for its detoxifying, beautifying, and skin-soothing properties. Apply the oil gently to the affected area(s), using it 2-3 times a day for best results.

Cutfar Ointment – provides natural relief from common skin conditions. It alleviates itching and irritation caused by eczema and is suitable for all skin types. Apply a small amount of ointment to the affected area(s) and massage gently until fully absorbed. Use twice daily, preferably in the morning and evening.

Chemparuthyadi Kera Thailam – supports skin health and alleviates itchiness. Apply the oil to the affected areas and massage gently until the oil is fully absorbed.

6. Topical Remedies

Ayurvedic topical remedies help soothe inflammation, reduce dryness, and promote skin repair.

Kumkumadi Thailam
Mahamarichyadi Taila
Jatyadi Tail
Coconut Oil and Camphor

Ayurvedic Skin Care

Proper daily skin care is vital in preventing eczema flare-ups and ensuring long-term skin health. Ayurveda emphasises a gentle, nourishing, and dosha-specific routine to keep the skin hydrated and protected.

Use herbal cleansers instead of harsh soaps to avoid stripping the skin’s natural oils.
Avoid hot water baths. Use lukewarm water instead to prevent excessive dryness and irritation.
After bathing, pat the skin dry gently with a soft cotton towel.
Apply natural oils like coconut oil after bathing to lock in moisture and protect the skin.
For added hydration, use aloe vera gel mixed with turmeric.
Reapply a moisturiser or natural oil throughout the day, especially on dry or affected areas.
Minimise direct midday sun exposure.
Apply cooling herbal remedies like sandalwood paste or rose water to protect the skin.
Wear soft, breathable fabrics like cotton, especially during the hotter months. Avoid wool or synthetic materials that may trigger itching.
Use mild detergents when washing clothes to avoid chemical residues irritating the skin.

Additional Tips: Stick to a consistent skincare routine and avoid over-washing.

Check Out: Kumkumadi Tailam Special – an Ayurvedic skincare essential!

7. Ayurvedic Herbal Remedies

Neem – prized for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. It can be taken internally or used externally. Neem can be used as a decoction or in powdered form to purify the blood and reduce toxins. Neem-based pastes or oils can soothe inflamed skin and control infections that may complicate eczema. You can also boil a handful of fresh neem leaves in water, once it cools you can use it to clean the affected areas.

Manjistha is known as a blood purifier. It helps detoxify the body and reduce inflammatory responses. It’s often administered as a powder mixed with water or honey or as part of herbal formulations.

Guduchi – acts as an immunomodulator. It enhances the body’s natural defences while reducing inflammatory mediators. It can be taken as a decoction or tablet as it helps balance the doshas and prevents recurrent flare-ups.

Turmeric – offers anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. It can be used in formulations or be added to warm milk with a pinch of black pepper (aka “Golden Milk”). It’s typically used as a paste mixed with neem or aloe vera for skin health to reduce redness and accelerate healing.

Triphala – a blend of three fruits (Amalaki, Bibhitaki, and Haritaki). It’s exceptionally beneficial in supporting detoxification and skin health.

Khadira – has astringent and anti-inflammatory qualities. It’s used in herbal decoctions and pastes to “tighten” the skin, reduce oozing, and support healing of inflamed areas.

Tulsi (Holy Basil) – has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. Tulsi soothes irritated skin and reduces itching.

Guggulu – known for its anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties, it helps reduce swelling.

Sandalwood – has moisturizing properties that help soothe and calm irritated eczema skin. It also helps reduce redness, itching, and discomfort.

8. Ayurvedic Home Remedies for Eczema

- Extract fresh aloe vera gel from a leaf and apply it to the irritated patches. Leave it on for 15 minutes before rinsing with lukewarm water. You can also use Aloevera All Purpose Gel or Moha Aloe Vera Gel.
- Warm a small amount of coconut oil and massage it onto damp skin immediately after bathing.
- Create an oatmeal bath by mixing 1 cup finely ground colloidal oatmeal into a bath filled with lukewarm water. Soak in it for 15-20 minutes to calm itching and reduce inflammation. Alternatively, you can use a herbal bar soap from honey and oatmeal.
- Lather Ayurvedic bath balls with water during the bath and rinse off with water.
- A cold compress with a clean, damp cloth (or ice pack wrapped in a towel) can help reduce itching and inflammation. Do this for short periods only.
- Freshly squeezed potato juice can help soothe irritation and reduce redness. Remember to do a patch test first.
- When diluted, apple cider vinegar may help balance skin pH and reduce inflammation. Always use caution and do a patch test first to avoid irritation.

9. Dietary Changes

Foods to Include:

Cooling fruits like apples, pears, and melons

Fresh vegetables like leafy greens, cucumbers, and gourds

Whole grains like barley and brown rice

Legumes like lentils and mung beans

Healthy fats from flaxseeds, walnuts, and coconut oil

Hydrating beverages like licorice tea, aloe vera juice, and coconut water

Cooling spices like coriander, fennel, and cumin

Foods to Avoid:

Pitta-aggravating foods like spicy, oily, and fried foods

Ama-producing foods like processed foods and refined sugars

Heavy dairy products that lead to Kapha imbalance

Red meats

Acidic fruits like pineapple and overly sour citrus fruits

Alcohol and caffeinated beverages

Salty foods

10. Lifestyle Changes

Maintain a consistent daily routine (dinacharya).
Follow a balanced diet (see above).
Stay hydrated.
Practice gentle cleansing using herbal cleansers and lukewarm water.
Choose soft, breathable fabrics (like cotton) and avoid synthetics or rough materials.
Incorporate regular physical activity.

Stress Management Techniques

Meditation

Dedicated 10-15 minutes daily to mindfulness or focused breathing exercises (Pranayama) to lower stress hormones. Choose a quiet space, sit comfortably, and use guided meditation apps or simple deep-breathing techniques to cultivate calmness.

Yoga

Balasana (Child’s Pose)
Viparita Karani (Legs-Up-The-Wall Pose)
Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog)
Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose)
Sukhasana (Easy Pose)
Setu Bandha Sarvangasana (Bridge Pose)

Abhyanga

Regular Abhyanga (self-massage) with nourishing herbal oils improves circulation, hydrates skin, and prevents dryness and cracking. Use these herbal oils:

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the root cause of eczema in Ayurveda?

In Ayurveda, eczema is primarily caused by imbalances in the Pitta and Kapha doshas and accumulation of toxins (Ama) due to poor digestion and lifestyle factors.

How do you get rid of eczema permanently naturally?

Ayurveda manages eczema through detoxification (Shodhana), pacification (Samana), and rejuvenation (Rasayana) therapies, combined with dietary and lifestyle adjustments. While a “permanent cure” is rare, long-term relief can be achieved with consistent, individualised treatment.

What herb gets rid of eczema?

Ayurvedic herbs such as Neem, Manjistha, and Turmeric are commonly used to purify the blood, reduce inflammation, and soothe irritated skin.

Can Ayurveda cure Psoriasis?

Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to managing and alleviating psoriasis symptoms by balancing the doshas, detoxifying the body, and improving overall skin health.

Our articles on Psoriasis:

Disclaimers

The information provided in this article is for education purposes only and should not be considered as a substitute for advice from a health care professional, proper diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or the use of Ayurvedic remedies.

It is important to note that the UK Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), European Medicines Agency (EMA), and the World Health Organization (WHO) do not regulate alternative medicines. Anyone interested in these remedies should discuss them with a doctor first and always purchase them from a reliable source.

The following Ayurvedic treatments are intended to support overall well-being and may help alleviate symptoms, but they are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider before trying any new remedy, especially if you have an existing health condition, are pregnant, or are taking medication. Ensure the quality and purity of any product before use, and conduct a patch test before applying essential oils or topical treatments.

Supporting Research

Dija T Lawrence, Anand R J, Girish K J, & Tapas Brata Tripaty. (2023). Ayurvedic management of Vicharchika (Eczema) – A Case Report. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences, 8(6), 240 – 244. https://jaims.in/jaims/article/view/2440
Dr. Deepa Puranikamath, Lakshmiprasad L. Jadhav, T. B. Tripathy, Anoop A. S, & Neelam Bisht. (2019). Eczema : Management through Ayurveda – A Case Report. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences, 4(05), 353-357. https://jaims.in/jaims/article/view/748
Dr. Abhishek Yadav & Dr. Sujata Yadav (2024). AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF VICHARCHIKA (ECZEMA): A CASE STUDY. World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, 13(20), 734-742. https://wjpr.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/article_issue/ab7c6114205a3f3620a61b2dbbd96d2c.pdf
Savalagimath, Mahesh P.; Rani, Jyoti; Patil, Santosh F. (2018). Ayurvedic management of vicharchika with a special reference to eczema: A Case report. Indian Journal of Health Sciences and Biomedical Research (KLEU), 11(1), 92-96. https://journals.lww.com/kleu/fulltext/2018/11010/ayurvedic_management_of_vicharchika_with_special.18.aspx

Dr. Rajesh Nair. Expert, Ayurveda Medicine, India

This article has been reviewed by Dr. Rajesh Nair, the co-founder and chief consultant of AyurvedaForAll and AyurvedaForAll UK. Dr. Nair graduated from the esteemed Vaidyaratnam Ayurveda College (affiliated with the University of Calicut) in Kerala, India, and holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Yoga Therapy from Annamalai University.

With over 20 years of experience in Ayurveda, Dr. Nair specialises in Panchakarma, Yoga, and Ayurvedic Massage. He consults at two busy clinics in the Southern state of Kerala, renowned for its traditional Ayurvedic practices, and offers online consultations to patients worldwide. Dr. Nair is the chief editor of the Ayurveda Medical Association of India’s online portal and frequently speaks at Ayurveda-related conferences. He has also visited Germany to propagate Ayurveda.

Dr. Nair’s expertise ensures that all content on this website is medically sound and adheres to the highest Ayurvedic standards.

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