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Friday 4 October 2013

Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment for Erythema Dyschromicum Perstans

Erythema dyschromicum perstans is a skin disease which is also known as Ashy Dermatosis.  In this condition, early legions may be reddish in color; however, the characteristic appearance is of grey, round, oval or irregular skin patches, usually on the trunk, extremities or face.  No other abnormality is seen in this condition, which is usually observed in people with dark skin.  This condition is present more in young adults and especially women.  It is often considered to be a type of Lichen planus, and is usually diagnosed by its characteristic appearance, or by a skin biopsy.  The standard modern treatment for this condition includes oral steroids, topical steroids, ultraviolet treatment, laser treatment, chemical peels, and Clofazimine.  However, this condition is usually resistant to treatment and may persist for years, after which it may subside on its own.

Ayurvedic herbal treatment for this condition is based on the treatment which is usually given for lichen planus.  The aim of treatment is to treat the skin, the subcutaneous tissue, and the blood vessels within the skin and subcutaneous tissue.  The main focus is on the use of herbal medicines which have the ability to modify the immune status of affected individuals, as well as the capacity to normalise skin color.  Additional herbal medicines may be given to boost the immune system as well as general health of affected individuals.

Treatment is usually given for periods ranging from three to six months, depending upon the severity of the disease in affected individuals.  Treatment is continued till there is a complete resolution of the skin lesions, after which the dosage of medicines can be gradually tapered and stopped altogether.  Overall, when treatment is given in this fashion, results are quite satisfactory and relapses are quite rare.


The writer, Dr. A. A. Mundewadi, is available as an online Ayurvedic Consultant at https://www.mundewadiayurvedicclinic.com and http://www.ayurvedaphysician.com