Category: Low Immunity

March 22, 2023

Phytophotodermatitis: Symptoms, Causes, And Treatment By Ayurveda

ABSTRACT

Phytophotodermatitis is a type of contact dermatitis. Dermatitis is a common skin irritation including atopic dermatitis (eczema), and seborrheic dermatitis (dandruff). It can be described as a number of skin irritations and rashes that are caused by genetics, an overactive immune system, and allergies. The range of rashes varies from mild to a severe form, In teens and adults, it is typically found on the hands, neck, and knees. Seborrheic dermatitis and cradle dermatitis are typically found on the scalp, and ears whereas periorificial dermatitis is found around the eyes and on the genitals. It is caused due to a combination of activation of the immune system, due to genetics, and environmental triggers which cause moisture and leads to dermatitis. There may be small blisters that cause the skin to thicken, and a small covering of the entire body can be due to a combination of allergy and poor venous return. It mainly involves symptoms such as swelling, itching, and sometimes skin lesion that causes oozing and scarring mainly seen on the neck, wrist, and ankle. It can be treated on its own or within a few weeks, treatment includes- steroids, creams, and lotions to treat dry skin. In this article, we are going to study in detail this disease’s causes and its ayurvedic management.

Phytophotodermatitis

INTRODUCTION

Phytophotodermatitis (PDD) is a cutaneous inflammatory eruption that results from light-sensitizing botanical plants known as Furanocoumarins and long-wave ultraviolet A. Psoralen is the particle that is present in Furanocoumarins (found in parsley, carrot, limes) when reacting with psoralen and UV radiations from the eruptions on the skin. Phytophotodermatitis is a type of contact dermatitis that is broken down into three parts- Phyto means plant, Photo means sunlight, and Dermatitis means inflammation in the skin. It happens when a certain planet’s chemical causes the skin to become inflamed after being exposed to sunlight. It is also known as lime disease, the patches of blisters are in irregular shape, typically manifest burning erythema, and cause blisters and are acutely red, when the acute inflammatory reactions subside there is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation which lasts for years. The eruption lasts for 24 hours and peaks at 48-72 hours. It is known as baroque dermatitis or margarita photodermatitis, heat and moisture tend to exacerbate the reaction. Bergapten and xanthotoxin (methoxsalen) are derived from psoralen. Pain is also associated with the blister which results from necrosis of the affected epidermis. Aside from round blisters, the patches are also in the form of drips and streaks. A certain form of plant and sun dermatitis called baroque dermatitis is caused by exposure to perfumes. The rashes look darker and fully fade. It is not an allergic or immune reaction, it is the reaction between plant substance and skin cells. The lining of the skin cells is damaged and cells die and flake off (like a sunburn). 

 FACTS

  • Thousands of substances can cause irritation and further allergic contact dermatitis
  • Contact dermatitis can start at any time in the life
  • The best way to treat contact dermatitis is to avoid
  • Contact dermatitis can take up to 3 weeks to go away
  • Touching the rash won’t spread it to another person

CAUSES

  • The plants containing furanocoumarins are responsible for the acute phototoxic reactions, which interfering with Ultraviolet A produce cell membrane damage and inflammation through the process of photosynthesis.
  • It affects the epidermis only and the epidermis is the outer layer of the skin.
  • Some common plants which contain psoralen include- Parsley, carrot, celery, breadnut, and citrus fruit.
  • On exposure to UVA light, it causes photochemical reactions in the skin
  • This damage the skin cells and causes cell death which leads to many symptoms.
  • Furocoumarins are responsible for producing excess melanin in the skin cells, which causes subsequent discoloration of the skin.

SYMPTOMS

1. It is based on the cycle of reactions, which first appear in blister-like patches across the skin, which are itchy and irregular-shaped. These patches are seen where the skin is exposed to the plant substance. The most common affected areas are

  • Legs
  • Arms
  • Hands

1. Drip-shaped lesions on arms (lime juice exposure)

2. Round lesions on the lips from using a plant pea shooter

3. Redness from the use of herbal cosmetics on the exposed skin

4. Streaks on the face and torso from using a string trimmer

5. Redness and swelling on exposed sites of hands, and arms after eating a large amount of furocoumarin-containing foods.

6. Pain

7. Tenderness

8. Crusted patches of skin once the blister the burst

9. Burning sensation

10. Wet skin, sweat, and heat are the initial symptoms while the sun darkens the skin pigmentation

11. Blisters (bullae) are formed within 48 hours and may leave black, brown, and purplish scars which last for several years.

RISK FACTORS

It can affect anyone, but several factors may increase the risk-

  • Exposure to certain plants and plant-based products
  • Sunny weather
  • Using perfumes or oils which contain plant chemicals
  • Canning fruits and vegetables
  • Fishing, gardening, and outdoor recreational activities expose the person to both plants and sunlight.
  • Farmers, forest rangers, and kitchen staff are at higher risk.
  • It is more prevalent in the spring and summer.

 DIAGNOSIS

  • Physical examination

 It can be confused with other skin conditions such as 

  • Sun allergies
  • Poison ivy
  • Hives
  • Sunburn
  • Poison oak

DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS

  • Allergic contact dermatitis
  • Burns
  • Dermatitis artefacta
  • Non-accidental injury
  • Photosensitivity due to drugs
  • Cellulitis
  • Fungal skin infections

TREATMENT

General Measures 

  • Cool compresses
  • Topical antiseptics to prevent infections
  • Topical steroids
  • Analgesia

COMPLICATIONS

  • Blisters
  • Ulcerations
  • Infections
  • Scars
  • Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation  

AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT

In Ayurveda, it is correlated with Niryas which can be from different parts of the plants and these niryas include different types of secretory products such as gum, resins, and sometimes latex. These niryas can cause rakta and pitta dushti, Niryas are the semi-solid exudate such as oleo gums, which are secreted as a result of the increased temperature of the plant. It causes rakta pitta dushti, pitta, and blood to be connected directly, the blood vitiation is due to the usage of hot and spicy food, food intake in large quantities, and usage of excessive salty, acidic, and pungent foods. The blood which is vitiated by pitta dosha is yellow and black and takes a long time to thicken because of the inherent heat.

LINE OF TREATMENT

  • Raktamokshana (bloodletting therapy)
  • Purgation (virechana panchkarma treatment)
  • Langhana (fasting)

RAKTASHODHANA (PURIFICATION OF BLOOD)

Two methods purify it

  • Local purification (where the blood-borne disease is present in localized areas such as hands, legs, and feet)
  • Systemic purification (it is present in the whole part of the body, which involves vital organs such as the liver, heart, and spleen)

HERBS USEFUL IN PHYTOPHOTODERMATITIS

  • Ghrit Kumari- Ghrit Kumari (Aloe vera) is promoting prebiotics that is good for the skin and intestines. Aloe vera has blood thinning action which is useful for treating atherosclerosis, improving ovulation, and helping to induce menstruation. It is good for the stomach and acts as an antimicrobial and helps to detoxify the blood. It helps to balance tridoshas and relieves worm infestation. 
  • Manjishtha- Manjishtha (Rubia cordifolia) is a famous herb used for the detoxification of blood, so it is helpful in various skin disorders, helps to regulate blood pressure, and prevents the clotting of blood. It is helpful in treating irregular menstruation. It helps remove freckles, pimples, and discoloration which promotes the healing of skin tissues due to skin tissue damage.    
  • Aaragwadha- Aaragwadha (Cassia fistula) is widely used in various skin disorders and to relieve constipation. It helps to balance Kapha and pitta doshas and acts as a mild purgation. It has antipyretic properties, acts as an analgesic, and has blood purification properties. Aragvadha helps to relive the ama and relieve abdominal colic pain. Help to detoxify the digestive tract.
  • Gandhak-  Gandhak (Sulfur) is used in various skin disorders, and urinary tract disorders and to relieve itching. It has an anti-aging property which helps to improve digestion, skin complexion, and balance of the tridosha. Gandhak improves the fertility of both men and women which further improves digestion strength. Helpful in intestine-related disorders such as IBS, and ulcerative colitis.  
  • Bakuchi- Bakuchi (Psoralea corylifolia) is a very well-known herb that is used in various skin disorders including leucoderma. It helps to balance the vata dosha, useful in various diseases such as urinary tract disorder, and chronic respiratory disease. Helps to relieve inflammation, acts as an anti-aging, and is useful in anemia.   

HERBAL REMEDIES BY PLANET AYURVEDA FOR PHYTOPHOTODERMATITIS 

Planet Ayurveda is an ayurvedic manufacturing company that makes all formulations from natural resources. Planet Ayurveda has many branches overseas. It is a GMP-certified company that makes all the products according to ancient ayurvedic texts. The products made are free from any preservatives, colors, and resins. The ingredients are free from any adulterations. The products made are free of any side effects but provide health benefits to the patients.

Product List

1. Gleaming Skin, Hair, and Nails Formula

2. Gandhak Rasayan

3.  Kustha Rakshas Tel

4. Royal Honey Shower Gel

5. Dermo Plan Syrup

Herbal Remedies For Phytophotodermatitis

Herbal Remedies For Phytophotodermatitis

Products Description

1. Gleaming Skin, Hair, and Nails Formula

Gleaming Skin, Hair, Nails formula are polyherbal capsules formulated by Planet Ayurveda using various ingredients such as Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia), Ghrit Kumari (Aloe barbadensis), Sariva (Hemidesmus indices). It helps to maintain the elasticity of the skin, providing smoothness and firmness to the skin. These capsules provide strength to the hair and nails. Improve the texture and appearance of the skin.

Dosage  1-2 capsules twice daily with plain water after meals.

2. Gandhak Rasayan

Gandhak Rasayan is an herbal tablet prepared by Planet Ayurveda using a single extract of Gandhak (Sulfur). These tablets are useful in various skin conditions such as Eczema which reduces the rashes and will provide relief. Helps to purify the blood which reduces acne and pimple and improves skin complexion. Gandhak Rasayan enhances the immunity of the body to fight against infections.

Dosage  1-2 tablets twice daily with lukewarm water.

3. Kustha Rakshas Tel

Kustha Rakshas Tel is a classical ayurvedic formulation prepared by planet ayurveda using ingredients such as Kushta (Saussurea lappa), Aragwadha (Cassia fistula), Tamra bhasma (Calcined copper), Sarson ka tail (Mustard oil) and many more. This oil is useful in various skin disorders such as Psoriasis, Eczema, and many more. It helps to apply over the external piles. Helpful in patients who are suffering from itching in the private parts, and fistula.

Dosage applied externally over the affected area twice daily.

4. Royal Honey Shower Gel

Royal Honey Shower Gel is an Ayurvedic cosmetics product prepared by planet Ayurveda using ingredients such as Honey, Vitamin E, Aloe Vera extract (Aloe barbadensis), DM water, and many more. It helps to maintain healthy skin, which nourishes dry skin, and dull skin, and provides soothing and moisturizing effects so keeps hydrated for a long period of time.

Dosage  Squeeze a small amount of wet body sponge to convert it into a rich creamy lather and then rinse it.

5. Dermo Plan Syrup

Dermoplan Syrup is an herbal syrup formulation which is formulated by planet ayurveda using ingredients such as Chopchini (Smilax china), Sariva (Hemidesmus indicus), Shobhanjan (Moringa oleifera), and many more. This syrup is useful in skin disorders and helps to strengthen and balance the overall functions of the body. It also works as an anti-inflammatory and has antioxidant properties.

Dosage 1-2 teaspoons twice daily

CONTACT PLANET AYURVEDA TO PROVIDE YOU THE COSTING / ORDERING AND DELIVERY INFORMATION AT – COSTING.PLANETAYURVEDA@GMAIL.COM OR CALL AT +91-172-5214040

CONCLUSION

Phytophotodermatitis is a type of contact dermatitis. Dermatitis is a common skin irritation including atopic dermatitis (eczema), and seborrheic dermatitis (dandruff). Phytophotodermatitis (PDD) is a cutaneous inflammatory eruption that results from light-sensitizing botanical plants known as Furanocoumarins and long-wave ultraviolet A. Psoralen is the particle that is present in Furanocoumarins (found in parsley, carrot, limes) when reacting with psoralen and UV radiations from the eruptions on the skin. In Ayurveda it is correlated with Niryas which can be from different parts of the plants and these niryas include the different types of secretory products such as gum, resins, and sometimes latex. Therefore, planet Ayurveda provides many herbal remedies which provide great relief to patients without causing any side effects. 

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March 22, 2023

Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy, Symptoms & Treatment by Ayurveda

Abstract

The musculoskeletal system of an organism is what gives it a shape and facility to move on the surface. The musculoskeletal system is generally made up o f the bones and muscles. But there are other very complicated and delicate structures present without them the functioning of the musculoskeletal system is possible. Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy is a condition of certain breed dogs in which their bone is affected and causes immense pain and other symptoms. In the text below, we shall look into its details and also witness its management in the contemporary veterinary sciences and in the Indian traditional medicinal system of Ayurveda. Let’s get started !!

Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy in Dog

Introduction

Hypertrophic osteodystrophy is a bone disease in rapidly growing large breed dogs. It is a painful condition that affects the large breed dogs. Common breeds that are affected with this hypertrophic osteodystrophy include weimaraners, boxers, great danes and german shepherds. The condition is generally seen in the rapidly growing giant dogs from two to sixth months of age. Signs include swelling of the metaphysis (the part of the bone adjacent to the joint), pain, depression, loss of appetite, and fever. The disease is usually bilateral in the limb bones. In Ayurveda, the condition is well correlated with the kapha dosha vitiation. In the later section, we shall discuss its ayurvedic view in a little detail and also have a look at the management of the condition in the ayurvedic aspect. For now let’s discuss the causes, clinical features, investigations and management of hypertrophic osteodystrophy.

Causes of Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy

  • The exact cause of hypertrophic osteodystrophy is not known. The possible and proposed causes include vaccination with distemper virus, infection with distemper virus, viral and bacterial infections.
  • Deficiency of vitamin C is also related to the development of the condition.
  • A series of events that takes place within the affected bone include the bleeding of the veins into the bone situated near to the affected bone. This leads to the dying of the bone in the particular region and the bone gets reabsorbed.
  • It further develops microfracturing because of the weakened structure of the bone. This further led to the formation of the new bone on the surface of the existing bone.

Signs and Symptoms

  • Cardinal symptoms include fever, depression and anorexia.
  • The dog looks lame and this thing can be from mild to moderate
  • As the condition affects multiple limbs the dog becomes reluctant to stand and walk.
  • The usual bones that are affected in the condition are radius, ulna and tibia. Though the involvement of jaw bones, paw bones and ribs have also been witnessed in some of the cases.
  • Other symptoms include tonsillitis, watery discharge from the eyes, diarrhoea, pneumonia, abnormal development of the enamel of teeth and thickening of the footpads also seen.

Investigations

The diagnosis of the condition depends on the physical symptoms and the findings on x-rays. Sometimes the new bone is also visualised in the x-rays. Sometimes, the growth plate adjacent to the hypertrophic osteodystrophy lesion is damaged that eventually leads to the bowing of the affected bone.

Management of Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy

  • Treatment of hypertrophic osteodystrophy is only supportive. In the early period of the fever, the body is kept hydrated with intravenous fluids.
  • Nutritional support is provided with a feeding tube in case of severe anorexia.
  • Pain and other symptoms are controlled with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories and narcotics.
  • Antibiotics are used in pneumonia and other bacterial infections.
  • Surgery is indicated in the cases when the bone twists with the damaged growth plates.
  • Exercises should be limited to short leash walks on the soft surfaces. To maintain the tone of the muscles, swimming or exercise in an underwater treadmill can be performed under a professional therapist.

Ayurvedic Aspect and Management of Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy

Ayurveda is a traditional medicinal system of India that has been serving mankind from ages. Not just mankind but other organisms and living creatures have been getting many benefits from Ayurveda. Though there is no direct correlation or mention of the ayurvedic veterinary is found. But certain authors and ayurvedic physicians have mentioned the usage of certain herbal formulations in the management of certain diseases of the animals/dogs. There are certain texts that have been written by ayurveda experts that validates the healthy and positive usage of herbal medicines in the animals.

Coming to the correlation of the condition of hypertrophic osteodystrophy, the condition can be well correlated with the kapha dosha vitiation. As the kapha dosha relates to shape and sizes of the organs/bones. When the kapha dosha vitiates it leads to the disruption of the compaction of the formed organ/bone. Furthermore, the infections can be correlated with the pitta dosha predominance and the management is expected accordingly.

Management depends on the dosha involved and the making of the substances available that is required for the establishment of a healthy bone. And the management is also focused on the pacification of the dosha vitiated.

There are herbal medicines that are helpful in the management of hypertrophic osteodystrophy which includes yograj guggul, kaishore guggul, sanjivani vati, arogyavradhini vati, shallaki  etc. Singles herbs that are helpful in the coping up with hypertrophic osteodystrophy are nirgundi (Vitex negundo), ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), guggul (Commiphora mukul), amalaki (Emblica officinalis), ela (Elettaria cardamomum), dalchini (Cinnamomum zeylanica), haridra (Curcuma longa), shunthi (Zingiber officinale) etc. With herbal formulations the management of hypertrophic osteodystrophy can be done positively.

Herbal Remedies by Planet Ayurveda for Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy

Planet Ayurveda is a famous Ayurvedic company. It is a US-FDA certified company based in India and has access all round the globe. It delivers the ayurvedic products to every location. Planet Ayurveda is an ayurvedic manufacturing unit and prepares pure ayurvedic herbal formulations for the consumption of animals and humans. Planet Ayurveda focuses on the quality of its products and formulates the medicines as mentioned in the various pharmacological classical books of Ayurveda. The products prepared by Planet Ayurveda are totally pure and herbal and do not contain any sort of chemicals, adulterants and artificial sweeteners. The medicines are available in almost every form such as capsules, leha (jams), vatis (tablets), asavarishta (syrups), churna (powders). Planet Ayurveda has come up with certain medicines that are useful in the condition of hypertrophic osteodystrophy.

Following are the Herbal Formulations that are helpful in the managing hypertrophic Osteodystrophy

  1. Yograj Guggul
  2. Joint Aid Plus
  3. Boswellia Curcumin
  4. Ashwagandha Capsule
    Herbal Remedies For Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy Herbal Remedies For Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy

Product Description

1. Yograj Guggul

Yograj Guggul is a classical ayurvedic medicine that is very effective in the disorders of the musculoskeletal system. The formulation contains a number of herbs such as guggul (Commiphora mukul), amalaki (Emblica officinalis), vidang (Embelia ribes), gokshur (Tribulus terrestris), ela (Elettaria cardamomum), saindhav lavan (rock salt), dalchini (Cinnamomum zeylanica), dhania (Coriandrum sativum), shunthi (Zingiber officinale) etc. All these herbs are known to fix the musculoskeletal disorders, alleviating inflammation and pacifying the kapha dosha. Hence, with these exotic properties of kapha pacification, Yograj Guggul helps in the managing hypertrophic osteodystrophy.

Dosage– Three tablets twice daily

2. Joint Aid Plus

Joint Aid Plus is a patent product of Planet Ayurveda which is composed of the herbs that are regarded as beneficial for the bones and muscles. The ingredients of the formulation are nirgundi (Vitex negundo), shallaki (Boswellia serrata), guggul (Commiphora mukul), sonth (Zingiber officinale) and ashwagandha (Withania somnifera). The capsules are very effective in re-establishing the healthy joint that is disrupted by the hypertrophic osteodystrophy. Joint Aid Plus helps in overcoming the painful condition. Joint Aid Plus is very beneficial in promoting healthy bone and muscle tissue. Therefore, in the pitiful condition of the dogs with hypertrophic osteodystrophy, Joint Aid Plus capsules help in the proper recovery of the joint and it also alleviates the other symptoms associated with the condition.

Dosage- Two capsules twice daily

3. Boswellia Curcumin

Boswellia Curcumin is a very nice and effective formulation prepared by Planet Ayurveda. The formulation contains the two herbs namely shallaki (Boswellia serrata) and haridra (Curcuma longa). Both the ingredients possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.  Furthermore, they also exhibit the analgesic properties, which help in alleviating the pain associated with hypertrophic osteodystrophy. The capsules help in healing of the lesion and check the damage to the bone. It also alleviates fever and loss of appetite and other associated symptoms of hypertrophic osteodystrophy. In conclusion, Boswellia Curcumin capsules are very useful in the management of hypertrophic osteodystrophy.

Dosage- Two capsules twice daily

4. Ashwagandha Capsule

Ashwagandha Capsules are such strengthening capsules prepared by Planet Ayurveda with pure ashwagandha (Withania somnifera). Ashwagandha capsules help promote bone health and provide strength to the bone and prevent its degeneration. Ashwagandha capsules further give strength to the bones and provide mass to the muscle of the legs of the dogs. Ashwagandha boosts immunity, hence helps in fighting certain bacterial and viral infections which can lead to the development of hypertrophic osteodystrophy. Henceforth, Ashwagandha Capsules prevent and manage the condition of hypertrophic osteodystrophy very effectively.

Dosage- Two capsules twice daily

Contact Planet Ayurveda Support Team to provide you the costing/ordering and delivery information at – costing.planetayurveda@gmail.com or Call at 0172-521-4040 (India), +91-172-521-4040 (Outside India) or Whatsapp at (+91) 842-749-4030.

Conclusion

Hypertrophic osteodystrophy is a self-limiting disease that can last for a few weeks. Recurrence of the condition is expected in most affected dogs. The moderate to severe type of this disease results in dwarfism. As per the veterinary sciences the patients that do not respond to the available management should be euthanized (as per an article). But as we see in the text above, there are certain products that help in managing the condition of hypertrophic osteodystrophy very well and validates themselves with the title of well wisher for the patients suffering with hypertrophic osteodystrophy. In the end, hypertrophic osteodystrophy is a condition that can be managed with herbal medicines to a large extent and the life standard of the affected dogs can be enhanced.

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