Author: Dr. Vikram Chauhan

Abstract

The skin is the body’s biggest organ. Protection, regulation, and sensation are the three main functions of the skin. A vertebrate animal’s body is typically covered in an outer layer of tissue that is soft and flexible. The integumentary system comprises the skin and its extracellular components, such as the hair, nails, sweat, and oil glands. One of the skin’s main functions is protection. The body is shielded against environmental dangers like viruses, toxins, and severe temperatures. The critical function of the skin in regulating body temperature. The blood vessels in the dermis constrict when they are exposed to a chilly environment. This could cause warm blood to avoid the skin. The skin then acclimates to the polar conditions. In this article, we discuss the herbs that are useful in skin diseases.

Introduction

Water, protein, lipids, and minerals make up the body’s biggest organ, the skin. Skin regulates body temperature and prevents infections. The skin contains secretions that have the power to kill bacteria, and the pigment melanin serves as a chemical pigment barrier against ultraviolet light, which can harm skin cells. The perception of feelings like heat and cold is made possible via skin nerves. Body heat is retained because the blood vessels are no longer transferring heat from the body to the skin. The skin is a fascinating organ with several functions that constantly protects the body from dangers outside. In addition to the skin, the integumentary system also includes the skin’s extracellular elements, including hair, nails, perspiration, and oil glands.

Layers of the Skin

The skin has three tissue layers

1. Hypodermis
2. Dermis
3. Epidermis

Epidermis

The epidermis is the skin’s outermost, touchable layer. This layer is created by the combination of keratin, a protein present in skin cells, and other proteins. The skin cells include keratin. The skin’s surface

1. Describes skin tone
2. Safeguard the body
3. Develops new skin
4. Serves as a separating barrier

Dermis

90% of the skin’s thickness is made up of the dermis. the central layer of this skin.

1. Raises hairs
2. Has elastin and collagen
3. Be in touch with you
4. Generates sweat
5. Produces blood and oil

Hypodermis

The hypodermis, or lowest layer of skin, is where the fatty layer of skin is found. Hypodermis

1. Include connective tissue
2. Bolsters the bones and muscles
3. Body temperature is controlled
4. Aids blood vessels and nerves

Ayurvedic Overview

According to Acharya Sushruta

तस्य खल्वेवं प्रवृत्तस्य शुक्रशोणितस्या – भिपच्यमानस्य भवन्ति ।।

Similar to how the cream of milk gradually rises to the brim of the jar as milk is heated, the skin (tawacha) created during the transformation of shukra-shonita climbs up to the surface of the body and covers the outer part of the body.

Layers of Skin

According to Acharya Sushruta, the seven layers of skin (twacha) are

1. Avbhasini
2. Lohita
3. Shweta
4. Tamra
5. Vedini
6. Rohini
7. Mamsadhara

Common Skin Problems

1. Allergies like contact dermatitis
2. Bites from insects, including tick, mosquito, and spider bites
3. Blisters
4. Skin cancer, including melanoma
5. Skin infections like cellulitis
6. Skin rashes and dry skin
7. Skin disorders like eczema, acne, vitiligo, and psoriasis
8. Wounds, burns, and scars
9. Skin lesions, such as freckles, moles, and skin tags.

Ayurvedic Herbs Useful in Skin Diseases

S.N.	NAME OF THE HERBS	BOTANICAL NAME	FAMILY NAME	PART USED
1.	Amla	Emblica officinalis	Euphorbiaceae	Fruits
2.	Bakuchi	Psoralea corylifolia	Papilionaceae	Seed, Oil
3.	Ashoka	Saraca asoca	Caesalpiniaceae	Bark
4.	Arjuna	Terminalia arjuna	Combretaceae	Bark
5.	Chandan/Sandalwood	Santalum album	Santalaceae	Heart wood, Oil
6.	Haritaki	Terminalia chebula	Combretaceae	Fruits
7.	Haridra	Curcuma longa	Zingiberaceae	Rhizome
8.	Henna/Mehndi	Lawsonia inermis	Lythraceae	Leaf
9.	Karanja	Pongamia pinnata	Leguminosae	Bark, Leaf, Seeds
10.	Kumkum/Kesar	Crocus sativus	Iridaceae	Saffron pollens
11.	Khadir	Acacia catechu	Mimosoideae	Stem bark
12.	Neem	Azadirachta indica	Meliaceae	Leaves,                seeds, barks
13.	Nariyal/Coconut	Cocos nucifera	Arecaceae	Fruits
14.	Tulsi	Ocimum sanctum	Labiatae	Leaves/Seed
15.	Daruharidra	Berberis aristata	Berberidaceae	Hardwood
16.	Gulab/Rose	Rosa indica	Rosaceae	Rose petals
17.	Bhumi amla	Phyllanthus urinaria	Euphorbiaceae	Whole plant
18.	Sariva	Hemidesmus indicus	Asclepiadaceae	Root
19.	Kalmegh/ Bhumi neem	Andrographis paniculata	Acanthaceae	Whole plant
20.	Guggul	Commiphora mukul	Burseraceae	Gum resin

Uses of These Herbs in Skin Diseases

Amla (Emblica Officinale)

Acne treatment and acne scar may be removed with the help of amla. Amla has antimicrobial qualities that could help in the battle against bacteria that cause acne. Amla may help in lightening dark spots and reducing skin pigmentation. Amla may help in the prevention of skin conditions like rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis. Amla may lessen itching and dandruff on the scalp. Amla’s inherent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities may aid in the fight against fungi that cause dandruff. Amla may also help in anti-aging and skin exfoliation.

Bakuchi (Psoralea Corylifolia)

Leucoderma, a skin discoloration problem, and other skin conditions have been treated with bakuchi seeds. For topical application, the extract can be included in creams or gels. Bakuchi can be used to treat psoriasis and the itch that goes along with it. You can use bakuchi to treat leprosy as well. The seeds’ oil is used to treat ringworm, scabies, and tinea versicolor. It can be applied as a spot treatment, to moisturize and calm the skin, and to lessen the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles. Additionally, it can be used to heal sunburns, chapped lips, and dark patches and pigmentation. Bakuchi oil is a fantastic option for people wishing to enhance the health and appearance of their skin because of its various skin care advantages.

Ashoka (Saraca Asoca)

Acne, eczema, and psoriasis are a few of the skin disorders that ashoka powder may aid with. The dark areas on the face might also benefit from it. Antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory effects are all present in ashoka powder. Infections, edema, and discomfort may be reduced by these qualities. Because of its Ropan (healing) ability, it also restores the original skin texture. Ashoka powder could be beneficial for

• Restoring youth to the complexion
• Minimising freckles
• Reducing inflammatory response
• Blood purification Lowering cholesterol.

Ashoka powder can be consumed by combining 1/4 or 1/2 teaspoon with warm water, honey, or water. It can be taken once, twice, or as prescribed. The Ashoka tree’s bark can also be boiled to create a thick decoction. You can add mustard oil to the decoction once it has cooled and use it to treat boils and acne.

Arjuna (Terminalia Arjuna)

Skin aging is avoided by arjuna bark extract. Arjuna contains strong antioxidant properties that guard against the harm that these free radicals can do to the skin. Pigmentation is connected to the body’s Pitta dosha, which is worsened when there is a hormonal imbalance. By bringing the pitta dosha in our bodies into balance, arjuna powder aids in the reduction of tan and pigmentation. Using arjuna powder to treat dry, chapped skin is also highly advantageous. By lowering the rate of transepidermal water loss, it creates a shield that is more durable and serves as the skim barrier. As a result, it lessens the symptoms of dry skin and shields it from any harmful exterior factors.

Chandan/Sandalwood (Santalum Album)

Antioxidants found in abundance in sandalwood can help to prevent wrinkles and drooping skin. It helps in preventing pimples and treating acne. Especially if you have sensitive skin that becomes inflamed in the presence of even the smallest allergen, chandan is believed to offer calming and anti-inflammatory effects that aid in reducing skin redness. It scrubs away the dead skin cell. Cleansing and constricting open pores are further benefits of using a Chandan face pack.

Haritaki (Terminalia Chebula)

In skincare, haritaki powder is quite helpful. It combats skin allergies. Haritaki paste is the most effective remedy for various problems. By applying a haritaki fruit on a sandal stone and rubbing it with a small amount of heated water, you can create this light-green haritaki powder paste. Apply the paste to the affected skin.

Haridra (Curcuma Longa)

Haridra has a high antioxidant status, aids in the body’s detoxification process, and promotes good skin. It has an anti-allergic character, which reduces the itching brought on by a variety of illnesses. By accelerating wound healing and wound contraction as well as increasing the rate of new skin development and tissue strength, it helps the body’s skin tone and complexion. The turmeric rhizome’s curcumin has the power to shield the skin from damaging UV-induced impacts. It repairs oxidative injury to tissues, including skin cells.

Henna/Mehndi (Lawsonia Inermis)

Additionally, henna has been applied as a poultice to treat burns and eczema and as a coagulant for open wounds. The plant’s leaves can be applied topically to treat bacterial or fungal skin diseases. The only henna that can be applied to skin without harm is natural henna. The application of red and black henna on the skin is incredibly damaging. Scars and other blemishes can be made less noticeable by henna. Henna has the ability to moisturize skin and stop dryness.

Karanj (Pongamia Pinnata)

Due to its Ropana (healing) quality, karanja oil is beneficial for skin issues like itchiness, discomfort, or bleeding in cases of eczema or abscess. It stops dandruff and stops bleeding when applied to a wound. It is also employed as an antiseptic and an insecticide. Because karanja oil is antimicrobial, it can treat skin conditions like eczema, boils, and abscesses.

Kumkum/Kesar (Crocus Sativus)

Saffron consumption can enhance the skin’s tone, smooth out its texture, and make you look more youthful. It can also assist in minimizing overexposure to the sun’s rays, resulting in a natural glow. This red flower also helps to heal acne, hyperpigmentation, and scars, leaving you with a clean complexion.

Khadir (Acacia Catechu)

Khadir possesses antibacterial and antifungal qualities that prevent the fungus and bacteria that cause skin issues from growing. So, it might be helpful for a variety of skin conditions[10]. When applied to the affected area, khadir helps to manage the symptoms of skin conditions like eczema. It is typically used to treat skin conditions such as acne, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, urticaria, and skin allergies. Additionally, it is beneficial in treating digestive-related issues including intestinal worms.

Neem (Azadirachta Indica)

Neem has the ability to reduce skin irritation, reduce acne scarring, increase collagen development, heal wounds, and manage oil production. It works as a healthy and natural alternative to cure, reduce hyperpigmentation and scarring while also nourishing skin tissue from the inside out. With its antiseptic and antibacterial qualities, neem also actively treats pimples. The oil made from its leaves contains necessary fatty acids, making it a useful moisturizer that penetrates the skin deeply.

Nariyal/Coconut (Cocos Nucifera)

Inflammation can be reduced and skin can be moisturized using coconut oil. Additionally, it can alleviate rashes and eczema. Coconut oil might be able to combat skin aging symptoms. Antioxidants in it might delay the aging process. One form of fat that has received accolades for improving health is coconut oil. The lauric acid in it, which is well known for its brightening qualities, is also high in vitamin E.

Tulsi (Ocimum Sanctum)

Vitamins and essential oils found in tulsi aid to treat acne and skin inflammation. Additionally, it has significant amounts of vitamin C, a strong antioxidant that can help lighten and even out skin tone. Both topically and internally, tulsi is effective. You can include cleansers with tulsi as an ingredient in your skincare routine. Tulsi face packs can also be used to treat pimples and acne.

Daruharidra (Berberis Aristata)

The well-known preferred treatment for a range of skin issues is daruharidra. Because of its Kapha-Pitta traits and blood-purifying properties, which aid in removing contaminants in the blood, it decreases sebum production and helps treat a number of skin disorders. It not only shields the skin from the oxidative radical damage caused by UVA and UVB radiation, but also prevents the onset of wrinkles, fine lines, blemishes, spots, and dark under-eye circles.

Gulab (Rosa Indica)

Rose petals are used to make gulab jal, which has healing and anti-inflammatory effects. To remove makeup or thin out a handmade face mask, it can be used in skincare. Due to its antibacterial and antiseptic qualities, rose water can be used to treat and prevent illnesses. It can also aid in lessening the visibility of scars. Inflamed and irritated skin are calmed by roses’ complementing moisturizing qualities.

Bhumi Amla (Phyllanthus Urinaria)

All skin conditions can be effectively treated with bhumi amla. Its leaves can be ground into a paste that is used to treat infections and skin ulcers. It may also be employed to treat due to its antibacterial and antiviral properties, ringworm, wounds, scabies, and leprosy. Bhumi amla extracts contain anti-inflammatory qualities that make them useful for treating chronic discomfort and psoriasis brought on by inflammation. To relieve itching, rub the leaves on any part of the body. Root extracts are a common ingredient in body lotions, hair oils, and massage oils for the skin and hair.

Sariva (Hemidesmus Indicus)

A medicinal plant called sariva, often referred to as anantmool, has been utilized for hundreds of years to heal skin issues. It can be used to cure and has healing qualities. It helps in the treatment of Bacterial or fungal infections, Eczema, Psoriasis, Ringworm, Leucoderma, Hyper pigmentation, Acne. The liver can also be cleaned using sariva purifying the blood to remove too much heat from the body to enhance the texture of the skin.

Kalmegh/Bhumi Neem (Andrographis Paniculata)

Since kalmegh powder has antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory qualities, it can be used to the skin combined with coconut oil to treat eczema, boils, and skin infections. It is bitter in taste. Blood can be purified by kalmegh. It could help with skin issues and eliminate pollutants from the bloodstream. This is a result of its tikta flavor and ability to balance pitta.

Guggul (Commiphora Mukul)

Improve the itching, redness, or skin discoloration as well as inflammation in those who have eczema and psoriasis. Skin responses that came about as a result of breast cancer radiotherapy treatment were treated using cream based on guggul. Guggul includes compounds that reduce triglycerides and cholesterol. One of these chemicals also lessens some types of acne’s redness and swelling.

Conclusion

The skin is the body’s biggest organ. Protection, regulation, and sensation are the three main functions of the skin. A vertebrate animal’s body is typically covered in an outer layer of tissue that is soft and flexible. The integumentary system comprises the skin and its extracellular components, such as the hair, nails, sweat, and oil glands. One of the skin’s main functions is protection. The skin (tawacha) formed during the transformation of shukra-shonita rises up to the surface of the body and covers the outer part of the body, just as the cream of milk slowly rises towards the brim of the vessel while the milk is heated.