Seborrheic Dermatitis (Darunaka)

An Ayurvedic Perspective and Management at Yogakshema Ayurveda Hospital

🩺 Introduction

Seborrheic dermatitis, known as Darunaka in Ayurveda, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that commonly affects the scalp, face, and chest. It is characterized by flaky white to yellowish scales, redness, and itching, particularly in oily areas. At Yogakshema Ayurveda Hospital, we offer a holistic Ayurvedic approach focused on dosha balance, detoxification, immune support, and skin nourishment.

🌿 Ayurvedic Perspective

In Ayurveda, Darunaka results from an imbalance of the Pitta dosha (heat, inflammation), along with Kapha (oiliness, stickiness) and Vata (dryness, roughness). The disease is viewed as a disorder of the Twak (skin) and Rakta (blood), aggravated by Ama (toxins) and poor digestion.

🔥 Aggravated Pitta

  • Causes redness, burning sensation, and inflammation

  • Disrupts skin metabolism and increases sebum production

🌊 Aggravated Kapha

  • Leads to oiliness, thick scales, and sticky discharge

  • Promotes blockage of skin channels and fungal growth

🌬️ Aggravated Vata

  • Results in dryness, flaking, and cracks in the skin

  • Contributes to itching and discomfort

🧪 Contributing Factors

  • Rakta & Twak Dhatu Dushti (impairment of blood and skin tissues)

  • Ama accumulation due to weak digestion (Agni Mandya)

  • Stress and mental fatigue (Manasika Karanas)

⚠️ Common Causes

  • Malassezia yeast overgrowth

  • Excessive sebum production

  • Weakened immune response

  • Hormonal fluctuations and stress

  • Genetic predisposition

  • Cold, dry weather conditions

  • Neurological conditions (e.g., Parkinson’s disease)

📋 Symptoms of Darunaka

  • Flaky white or yellowish scales (especially on the scalp, face, chest)

  • Itching and burning sensations

  • Oily skin in affected areas

  • Redness and mild inflammation

  • Hair fall (in scalp cases)

🌱 Ayurvedic Approach to Management

The Ayurvedic treatment for Darunaka is comprehensive, addressing both internal imbalances and external manifestations:

✅ Treatment Goals:

  • Balance Pitta, Kapha, and Vata

  • Detoxify Rakta (blood) and Twak (skin)

  • Boost immunity and digestion

  • Calm the mind and reduce stress

  • Soothe and nourish the skin

🧘 Key Therapeutic Interventions

🌀 Panchakarma Therapies:

  • Virechana (Purgation): Eliminates excess Pitta and Kapha

  • Raktamokshana (Bloodletting): Clears toxins and reduces inflammation

  • Shirodhara: Oil therapy for calming the nervous system and balancing hormones

🌿 Herbal Medicines:

  • Neem (Azadirachta indica): Antifungal, detoxifying

  • Haridra (Turmeric): Anti-inflammatory, antibacterial

  • Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia): Blood purifier and skin tonic

  • Triphala: Improves digestion and removes toxins

  • Guggulu (Commiphora mukul): Anti-inflammatory and immunity booster

  • Chandigarh Vati: Classical remedy for skin disorders

  • Nimba Tailam (Neem oil): Used topically for antifungal action

🥗 Dietary & Lifestyle Modifications

  • Include: Cooling foods like cucumber, watermelon, coconut water, leafy greens

  • Avoid: Spicy, oily, fermented, and acidic foods that aggravate Pitta

  • Maintain: Proper hygiene of scalp and skin with gentle cleansers

  • Avoid: Harsh soaps, scratching, and excessive hair treatments

  • Follow: Regular sleep routine to support skin healing

  • Manage Stress: Yoga, meditation, breathing techniques

🧘‍♀️ Preferable Yogasanas

  • Tadasana (Mountain Pose)

  • Balasana (Child’s Pose)

  • Shavasana (Corpse Pose)

  • Yoga Nidra (Yogic Sleep)

  • Gentle stretching and relaxation poses

🩺 Customization of Treatment at Yogakshema Ayurveda Hospital

Every individual is unique. At Yogakshema Ayurveda Hospital, we create a personalized treatment plan based on:

  • Dosha analysis (Vata, Pitta, Kapha imbalance)

  • Prakriti (Body constitution)

  • Severity and location of skin lesions

  • Digestive and immune status

💡 Advantages of the Ayurvedic Approach

  • Treats the root cause, not just symptoms

  • Natural healing with minimal side effects

  • Boosts immunity and skin resilience

  • Prevents recurrence with long-term lifestyle guidance

  • Improves overall well-being

🏥 Yogakshema Ayurveda Hospital: Your Destination for Holistic Skin Healing

At Yogakshema Ayurveda Hospital, we combine classical Ayurvedic therapies with modern diagnostics to provide safe, effective, and long-lasting relief from seborrheic dermatitis. Our serene setting, expert Ayurvedic physicians, and compassionate care make your healing journey comprehensive and personalized.