Overview
Morphea is an inflammatory skin condition characterized by discolored and hardened patches that can appear on the face, neck, hands, torso, or feet. If left untreated, it can also affect the subcutaneous tissues. While the exact cause of Morphea remains unclear, it is believed to involve localized overproduction of collagen. Common symptoms include discolored patches, tightness of the skin, dryness, hardness, and reduced flexibility in the affected areas.
This disorder is more prevalent among women than men and can significantly impact self-esteem and body image, especially when visible patches appear on exposed areas like the arms, legs, or face. Diagnosis typically relies on clinical observation, signs, symptoms, and may involve biopsy for confirmation.
In modern medicine, treatment options include immunosuppressants, corticosteroids, and symptomatic management using moisturizing external drugs, phototherapy, among others.
Ayurvedic principles focus on correcting imbalances, removing toxins by purifying the tissues, and restoring normal physiology. Panchkarma detoxification therapies, along with rejuvenating oral medicines, are employed to address the underlying pathology and restore physiological functions.
Ayurveda for Morphea-
Ayurveda, being ancient established medical system, we don’t get direct explanation of certain diseases, in such case Ayurveda scholars has said that treat the disease according to the involved Dosha and Dushya (tissue) in the disease pathology. Also all kind of skin issues are listed under Kustha Vyadhi in Ayurveda classics, and treated in with the help of classical Ayurvedic shodhna and shaman therapies.
Sign and symptoms of Morphea:
The sign & symptoms of Morphea differs depending on the stage and severity of the condition. Some common signs and symptoms include:
Discolored patches on the skin.
linear patches of discolored skin on the arms or legs.
skin patches gradually become harder and dry.
Patched skin looks darker than the normal and gradually becomes darker.
Hair loss and loss of sweat glands is the affected area.
Morphea usually affects skin and underlying tissues, but in chronic conditions its impacts can be seen in bone and muscles also.
Complications
Morphea can significantly impact self-esteem and body image, especially when discolored patches of skin are visible on exposed areas like the face. Additionally, it can lead to several complications including:
– Hair loss and permanent damage to oil glands.
– Eye damage, which may be irreversible and can occur without noticeable symptoms.
– Restricted joint mobility due to pain and hardened patches of skin.
Treatment of Morphea with Ayurveda
Ayurveda takes a comprehensive approach to managing Morphea by eliminating toxins from the body and restoring balance to the doshas through purification and pacification therapies. Morphea, being an autoimmune condition, can affect multiple systems of the body in addition to the skin. According to Ayurveda, skin diseases primarily impact various tissues and systems including Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas, as well as Rasa (skin), Rakta (blood), Mamsa (muscle tissue), and Lasika or Ambu (lymph or plasma). By incorporating the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda’s Dosha-Dushya principles, we can accurately target the pathology and achieve positive treatment outcomes.
At Ketav’s Ayush Health Paradise, treatment for Morphea encompasses a variety of approaches:
- Internal Medicines: This includes decoctions, tablets, pastes/powders, juices, and syrups tailored to individual needs.
- External Medications: Application of pastes/packs, oils, ointments, powders, and scrubs to affected areas.
- Detoxification Therapies: Various detox therapies such as Basti, Anuvasna basti, Sweda-Abhyana, Virechana, Shirovirechana, and Jaloukavacharna are employed.
- Restoration Therapies: Therapies like Shirodhara, Avagahna, sharvang dhara, parisheka, and shidharthak snanam aid in restoring balance.
- Ahara-Vihara (Diet and Lifestyle): Specific dietary guidelines are followed, including restrictions on gluten, dairy, and incompatible food combinations. Lifestyle modifications such as avoiding irregular sleep patterns and sedentary habits are also emphasized.
Dr. Seema Santoshi emphasizes the importance of targeting the underlying pathology in treatment plans rather than solely addressing symptoms.