What is Inverse Psoriasis? Ayurvedic Treatment and Diet for Intertriginous Psoriasis

Inverse psoriasis also called hidden psoriasis or intertriginous psoriasis is a type of auto-immune skin condition that usually affects skin folds and creases of the skin. It is a chronic skin disease that causes skin cells to reproduce quickly. The faster life cycle of skin cells causes various symptoms that are clearly visible on the skin.  It causes rashes in the areas where the skin rubs against the skin like the armpits, buttocks, under your arms, inner thigh area, groin, and under the breasts. Unlike other types of psoriasis, Inverse psoriasis does not always produce scaly patches but makes its appearance as shiny, smooth, and discolored( red, brown) lesions and it may feel damp.  

It is advised to keep the affected areas dry and moist-free. Inverse psoriasis treatment is usually confused with some other skin conditions like fungal infection and eczema because their appearance and symptoms match.  

SYMPTOMS OF INVERSE PSORIASIS 

1. Skin Rashes- Skin rashes vary in color in shades of purple, brown for darker skin, pink, and red for lighter skin tones. Skin rashes vary for every individual ranging from spots of dandruff or scaling to major eruptions. 
2. Dry and Cracked Skin- Dry, itchy, cracked skin that sometimes may even bleed. Burning, soreness sensation is also sometimes felt. 
3. Pustules- In rare cases, inverse psoriasis can cause pustules or small blisters on the skin. 
4. Moist and sticky skin- Generally, skin folds have a moist environment, so the skin tends to become sticky and sweaty, leading to skin maceration and infections. 
5. Bad odor- Due to the moisture on the skin folds the affected areas may develop a foul smell if personal hygiene is not maintained. 

CAUSES OF INVERSE PSORIASIS 

1. IMMUNE SYSTEM DYSFUNCTION- Psoriasis is an auto-immune disease in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells. So immune systems dysfunction is thought to contribute to the development of inverse psoriasis. 
2. OBESITY- Overweight and obese people are at higher risk to develop inverse psoriasis because the extra skin folds provide moisture, a warm environment that is responsible for the growth of yeast. 
3. HORMONAL CHANGES- Hormonal changes have a great role to play in the development of inverse psoriasis. Women are at higher risk during pregnancy or menopause because hormone levels are in flux. 
4. SWEATING- Friction and sweating irritate the skin and triggers the symptoms of inverse psoriasis. When the skin rubs against the skin gives place to this condition. 
5. GENETICS- People with a past family history of inverse psoriasis are at higher risk of developing this condition. Inverse psoriasis may also have a genetic component. 

How can Ayurveda stop inverse psoriasis? (Intertriginous Psoriasis Ayurvedic Treatment)

Ayurveda is a traditional Indian system of medicine that focuses on improving the overall health and well-being of an individual rather than just treating symptoms through natural remedies and a few lifestyle modifications to treat health conditions. Ayurvedic treatment for inverse psoriasis involves a holistic approach. 

1. Herbal Remedies- Various herbal remedies treat skin conditions. The most common and effective herbs used are- Neem, Aloe vera, Turmeric, and Guggulu. All the above-mentioned herbs are loaded with anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and antifungal properties and help in the reduction of the severity of symptoms. 
2. Dietary Changes- Diet plays a major role in treating any disease and Ayurveda puts emphasis on the importance of a healthy and balanced diet in managing skin disorders. Spicy, oily, and acidic food is recommended to avoid. A diet rich in Vitamins and Minerals is highly beneficial. 
3. Lifestyle Modification- According to Ayurveda, managing skin conditions involves making lifestyle changes. Regular exercise, yoga, meditation, and managing stress play a major role. Adopting these changes help improve overall alleviates the severity of symptoms. 
4. Panchakarma- It is a detoxification process that involves multiple therapies like herbal steam baths, massage, and enemas that aims to detoxify the body and flush out toxins, reduce inflammation and help enhance skin health, and provide relief from symptoms. 
5. Ayurvedic Oils- The application of Coconut oil, Sesame oil, and Olive oil directly on the affected areas or adding them into the bathing water helps moisturize the skin deeply and helps eliminate inflammation. These oils help to soothe skin and nourish the skin. It is one of the easiest natural remedies to treat skin conditions. 

DIET FOR INVERSE PSORIASIS 

A healthy diet helps manage the symptoms and improves overall health. Some natural ways to treat inverse psoriasis for early recovery.

1. Adopting anti-inflammatory foods- Anti-inflammatory properties help reduce inflammation in the body and alleviate the symptoms of inverse psoriasis. You can add Fruits, Vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains except wheat is highly beneficial for better results. 
2. Healthy Oils- Oils rich in Omega 3 to Omega 6 fatty acids are highly beneficial in treating psoriasis. They have anti-inflammatory fatty acids. Olive, Coconut, Safflower, and flaxseed oil are best for consumption in psoriasis.  
3. Adding Vitamins and Minerals- Essential certain minerals and vitamins boost skin health and reduce inflammation. A diet rich in Vimatins A, C, D, and E, Zinc, and Omega-3 fatty acids is proven beneficial for patients with inverse psoriasis.   
4. Probiotics- Probiotics refers to advantageous bacteria that aid in enhancing gut health and strengthening the immune system. Intake of probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt, kimchi, and kefir supports a healthy gut and provides relief from the symptoms of the disease. 
5. Hydrate- There is nothing above Water for hydrating the body and skin. Drinking plenty of water a day and some other fluids like fresh vegetables and fruit juices keeps the skin hydrated and reduces dryness and itching and also provides nutrients to the diet. You can also add herbal teas after consulting an expert. 

FAQ’S

1. Does turmeric stop psoriasis?

For ages, Turmeric is known and used as a healing spice and is popular in Ayurvedic medicine due to its anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-pain, and wound-healing properties. 

It can be used as a topical or oral form that may help relieve the symptoms. 

Turmeric is proven to be highly beneficial for patients suffering from psoriasis. 

2. Does coconut oil help in inverse psoriasis?     

Yes, Coconut is highly beneficial as it moisturizes the skin deeply leaving no roughness or itchiness on the skin. A patient finds great relief after the application of coconut oil to affected areas. You can apply twice a day for the best and early results. 

Ayurvedic treatment for Inverse psoriasis includes mandatory dietary and lifestyle modifications to balance the imbalance of Pitta and Vata doshas followed by some herbal home remedies. It is essential to maintain gut health to prevent the accumulation of ama(toxins) in the body. To avoid psoriasis flare-ups following a diet advised by an expert is a must. If you find that remedies are not working for you it is very important to consult an Ayurvedic expert for better results.