Tag: Causes of Phytophotodermatitis

Alternative Ayurvedic Treatment For Phytophotodermatitis

Abstract

Dermatitis is a common condition that can occur due to many causes. Dermatitis is a word to describe a number of skin inflammatory conditions. Dermatitis can result in rashes, blisters, dry skin, hyper or hypopigmentation, itching, flakes, and oozing. Phytophotodermatitis is one among these skin inflammatory conditions. Phytodermatitis is an inflammatory condition that can result from an excessive response to a chemical. This condition is quite disturbing and discomforting. We shall discuss the condition of photodermatitis in detail along with its management in the contemporary system of medicine as well as in the Ayurvedic system of medicine. Let’s discuss it!! 

Phytophotodermatitis

Introduction

Phytophotodermatitis can be understood by splitting its words – phyto stands for plants, photo stands for ultraviolet radiation of the sun and dermatitis denotes skin inflammation. So by adding all of these it suggests that phytophotodermatitis is an inflammatory skin condition that results from the reaction of the skin when come in contact with some plant chemical and then exposed to the sunlight. 

Phytophotodermatitis is also known as breloque dermatitis or margarita photodermatitis. These chemicals are known as furocoumarins. These chemicals are found in some of the plant families. And exposure or contact with these chemicals results in inflamed and irritated skin. In Ayurveda, the condition can be understood with the rakta and pitta dosha dushti due to aagantuj reason. Now let’s see the causes, classification, features, management, and Ayurvedic aspect of the condition.  

Causes of Phytophotodermatitis 

  • Phytophotodermatitis is a condition that comes from certain plant chemicals which belong to the families – Apiaceae, Rutaceae, Moraceae, and Fabaceae. 
  • Sunlight
  • Ultraviolet rays 

Signs and symptoms

  • Usually, the reaction starts within twenty-four hours after exposure, and the condition peaks on the second to the third day. 
  • Erythema
  • Edema
  • Large blisters (vesicles or bullae)
  • Delayed hyperpigmentation
  • Heat and moisture aggravate the condition
  • Eye exposure to the agent can result in temporary to permanent blindness

Investigations

Physical examination and proper history taking.are necessary things that make the diagnosis easier. 

Differential diagnosis 

  • Hives (Urticaria)
  • Skin infections

Prevention

  • Avoid contact with the plants of above said families and other agents that are regarded to have phototoxic reactions. 
  • In places, where contact with such phototoxic agents is inevitable then wearing long clothes that properly cover the skin, is necessary. Handling of such plants should be performed only after wearing proper gloves and eye guards.
  • Applying sunscreen is a must thing to do.
  • Washing clothes and skin after getting in contact with these phototoxic agents.
  • Do not go out if it is not necessary. 

Management

  • Anti-histamines
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Skin whitening agents
  • Sunscreen lotions

Ayurvedic Aspect and Management of Phytophotodermatitis  

Ayurveda is a traditional medicinal system of the Indian subcontinent which has been serving humanity from old ages. And till today its concepts are rational, valid and fruitful, and result-oriented. There are various skin conditions mentioned in the Ayurvedic texts which usually result from the pitta and rakta dushti. This condition of phytophotodermatitis which is an inflammatory skin condition that can be best correlated with the Aagantuj reasons (foriegn reasons) which vitiates the rakta and pitta (bhrajaka pitta) duhti. This is a dushti due to nisaar janya aagntuj nidan. There is no proper Ayurvedic term for this condition but the condition can be well understood how and which dosha gets vitiated as we saw above. Furthermore, this results in pidika (blister), kandu (itching), shotha (inflammation), vyanga (hyperpigmentation) at the placer post-blister. These symptoms get worse after exposure to sunlight or UV rays. 

The management protocol depends on soothing and cooling the skin and pacifying the rakta and pitta dushti. There are a number of herbs that beautifully manage the rakta and pitta dushti. The herbs include Chandan (Santalum album), manjishtha (Rubia cordifolia), neem (Azadirachta indica), sariva (Hemidesmus indicus), kumari (Aloe barbadensis), khadir (Areca catechu), haridra (Curcuma longa) and various others. Some of the various ayurvedic formulation which helps in phytophotodermatitis is gandhak rasayan, mahamanjisthadi kwath, khadirarishta, panch tikta ghrita guggulu, sarivadyarishta, chyawanprash, etc.

Herbal Remedies for Phytophotodermatitis by Planet Ayurveda

Planet Ayurveda is an eminent GMP-certified, ISO 9001:2015 certified and US-FDA registered Ayurvedic Company, which adheres to the objective of manufacturing quality Ayurvedic products as mentioned in a number of ancient texts of Ayurveda. Formulations are manufactured without additives and preservatives and other kinds of chemicals or artificial flavoring agents which can have a number of side effects on the human body. Products manufactured at Planet Ayurveda are pure and devoid of any kind of adulteration. The products are purely organic, vegetarian, gluten-free, and halal-certified. Planet Ayurveda presents its product that effectively manages the condition of Phytophotodermatitis.

Following is the list of formulations that are helpful in managing Phytophotodermatitis

Product List

1.  Gleaming Skin Hair 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

Product Description

1.  Gleaming Skin Hair Nails Formula 

Gleaming Skin Hair Nails Formula is a product of Planet Ayurveda that is composed of standardized extracts of the herbs like manjistha (Rubia cordifolia), pit pada (Fumaria officinalis), sariva (Hemidesmus indicus) and kumari (Aloe barbadensis). It pacifies the pitta dosha and does rakta shodhana (blood purification). With its blood-cleansing properties, it rectifies the pitta and rakta dusti hence helping in overcoming this discomforting condition of phytophotodermatitis.

Dosage:  One capsule twice daily with plain water after meals.

2.  Gandhak Rasayan

Gandhak Rasayan is a classical formulation in tablet form and contains shuddha gandhak (purified sulfur). Gandhak Rasayan benefits the body in a number of conditions. It reduces fever, treats skin conditions such as rashes and blisters, and acts as a potent antimicrobial, antiviral, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anthelmintic, antioxidant, and antipyretic agent. With all these properties Gandhak Rasayan is beneficial in phytophotodermatitis as it reduces rashes and inflammation of the skin through its anti-inflammatory properties. And also soothes the skin and provides a healthy skin. 

Dosage:  Two tablets twice daily with plain water after meals.

3.  Kustha Rakshas Tel

Kustha Rakshas Tel is a classical ayurvedic formula action that has been in use for managing a number of skin disorders such as dermatitis, leprosy, itching, inflammation, etc. the ayurvedic oil is made up of reasons (Allium sativum), bakuchi (Psoralea corylifolia), aragwadha (Cassia fistula), shuddha parada (purified mercury), shuddha gandhak (purified sulfur), rasa sindoor (combination of mercury and sulfur), Tamra bhasma (calcined copper), manahshila (arsenic sulfide) and mustard oil. With its skin-soothing properties and anti-inflammatory action it is best used in phytophotodermatitis. 

Dosage:  Wash the affected area with some mild herbal soap or shower gel and apply this oil at least 2 – 3 times a day.

4.  Royal Honey Shower Gel

Royal Honey Shower Gel is a herbal shower gel prepared by Planet Ayurveda. It is a gel prepared with honey, aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis), tea tree extract (Melaleuca alternifolia), and other things. The shower gel soothes and cools the skin thus helpful in managing the itching, rashes, and other symptoms caused by phytophotodermatitis with its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and other skin-benefitting properties. 

Dosage:  Take a few drops of shower over the wet lofa and with the help of it apply it over the skin gently and make leather. After that rinse it with water.

5.  Dermo Plan Syrup

Dermo Plan Syrup is a polyherbal product of Planet Ayurveda that provides skin wellness. The syrup contains the extract of the herbs including manjistha (Rubia cordifolia), giloy (Tinospora cordifolia), chopchini (Smilax china), sariva (Hemidesmus indicus), neem (Azadirachta indica), khadi (Areca catechu), Haridra (Curcuma longa), shobhanjan (Moringa oleifera), gorakhmundi (Sphaeranthus indicus) and others. The verbs are known to be varna (promotes skin lightening), blood purifying, and pitta pacification properties. With these wonderful properties, the syrup is the best remedy to manage phytophotodermatitis. 

Dosage:  Two tsp twice daily with plain water after meals. 

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

Conclusion 

Phytophotodermatitis is a type of skin inflammation, particularly contact dermatitis. The condition occurs due to contact with certain plant chemicals that cause inflammation, blister, rashes, and itching at the site of the contact followed by exposure to sunlight or ultraviolet rays. These chemicals are known as furocoumarins, which are present in some plant fancy families. One can prevent the condition by following some preventive measures as we discussed above. In the modern system of medicine, there are antihistamines and anti-inflammatory medicines are used that suppress the symptoms super soon but hurt in another way of side effects. Whereas, Ayurveda offers a good management protocol that rectifies the vitiated pitta and rakta dosha which eventually helps the management of the condition and enhances the beauty of the skin, providing good and healthy skin free of diseases. Hence Ayurveda manages skin disorders more efficiently than any other system. The products mentioned above provide good results in the condition of phytophotodermatitis. Choosing Ayurveda !! Choose healthy skin !!

Ayurvedic Treatment for Phytophotodermatitis with Herbal Remedies

ABSTRACT

Dermatitis is an inflammation or irritation of the skin caused by various external and internal factors. It is caused by an active immune system, infections, allergies, irritating substances, and more. In general, dermatitis can cause symptoms like rashes, blisters, itching, scaling, swelling, pain, burning sensation, etc. It is quite disturbing and discomforting. Dermatitis is a non-contagious skin condition. There are many types of dermatitis like atopic dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, diaper dermatitis, etc. Phytophotodermatitis is one of them. It is a type of contact dermatitis. We shall be discussing here the detailed description of phytophotodermatitis, its causes, and its management in contemporary as well as traditional systems of medicine.

Phytophotodermatitis

Introduction

It is very much clear from the name itself phyto stands for plant, photo stands for ultraviolet rays or sunlight and dermatitis stands for inflammation of the  skin. Phytophotodermatitis is a non immunogenic inflammation of the skin that occurs due to contact with certain plants which contain photosensitising substances called furocoumarins (psoralens) which get activated following the exposure of sunlight (especially ultraviolet rays ). Several hours after exposure, burning erythema occurs, followed by edema and formation of vesicles (bullae). Wet skin, heat, sweating enhance the phototoxic effect. This results in hyperpigmentation which may persist for several weeks to months. According to the ayurveda dosha involved here is bhrajaka pitta (type of pitta that lives in the skin) which causes rakta dhatu dushti.

Causes and Aggravating Factors

  • Exposure to phytotoxic plants and their associated products
  • Heat
  • Sunny weather
  • Using certain perfumes or oils that contain certain chemicals.

NOTE:- Most phototoxic plants belong to the family mbelliferae, Rutaceae, compositae, and moraceae families. Fennel, fig, wild carrot, lime, etc are some of the phytotoxic plants.

Signs and Symptoms

Usually the symptoms of phytophotodermatitis start within 24 hours and peak around 48-72 hours. Some of the symptoms are as follows:

  • Itching
  • Redness or discolouration
  • Swelling
  • Blister over large area
  • Burning sensation
  • Pain
  • Tenderness
  • Crusted patches of skin when blisters busted
  • Hyperpigmentation

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of phytophotodermatitis is based on the history of the person by  asking about exposure to plants or sunlight or any chemical substance  and carrying out physical examination. If still not clear further tests may be required like patch test or skin biopsy.

Differential Diagnosis

Phytophotodermatitis is often misdiagnosed for certain conditions given below:

  • Cellulitis
  • Burns
  • Fungal skin infection
  • Photosensitivity due to certain drug
  • Urticaria (hives)

Preventive Measures

  • Avoid the contact with plant that may causing skin reaction after identifying
  • Washing the skin especially hands after the contact
  • Using sunscreen lotion with high SPF
  • Covering up the skin while going out

Management

  • Cold compression or ice pack over the affected area can provide some relief
  • Corticosteroids (oral)
  • Anti inflammatory
  • Calamine lotion (topically)
  • Topical steroids
  • Antiseptic lotions
  • Wear loose clothes

Ayurvedic Aspect and Management of Phytophotodermatitis

Ayurveda is an alternative system of medicine with historical roots in the Indian subcontinent. Ayurveda treatises describe three elemental dosha & nbsvata pitta and kapha and state that balance of doshas restores health while imbalance results in disease. As in phytophotodermatitis the dosha involved here is pitta as it easily gets vitiated by hot conditions like sunlight. And the pitta involved is particularly  bhrajaka pitta which is seated on our skin. Aggravation of pitta dosha vitiated rakta dhatu giving all the symptoms like itching, redness etc. Phytophotodermatitis is called kushta vyadhi in Ayurveda

Some herbs like kumari(Aloe barbadensis), khadir (Areca catechu), haridra (Curcuma longa), neem (Azadirachta indica), sariva (Hemidesmus indicus) and various others are helpful in managing symptoms. Some classical Ayurvedic  formulations that are very potent are gandhak rasayan, mahamanjisthadi kwath, khadirarishta, chandan asav, and many others.

Home Remedies

  • Aloe Vera gel should be directly applied over the affected part. Aloe vera gives an excellent cooling effect and even repairs the damaged cells
  • Apply sandalwood paste with rose water or cucumber juice

Herbal Remedies for Phytophotodermatitis by Planet Ayurveda

Planet Ayurveda is globally making Ayurveda acceptable. Planet Ayurveda is an eminent GMP-certified, ISO 9001:2015 certified and US-FDA registered Ayurvedic Company which adheres to the objective of preparing quality ayurveda products as mentioned in our classical Ayurveda context. Formulations are strictly prepared under the supervision of our MD experts. Products contain no added preservatives, chemicals, or artificial flavors. Formulations are 100% pure and natural, devoid of any kind of adulteration, and have no side effects. Here are some products offered by Planet Ayurveda for phytophotodermatitis.

Following Are the List of Products Useful in Managing Phytophotodermatitis

  1. Gleaming Skin, Hair, Nails Formula
  2. Gandhak Rasayan
  3. Kustha Rakshas Tel
  4. Royal Honey Shower Gel
  5. Dermo Plan Syrup
    Herbal Remedies For PhytophotodermatitisBuy Herbal Remedies For Phytophotodermatitis

Product Description

1. Gleaming Skin, Hair, Nails Formula

Gleaming skin, hair, nail formula is the product of Planet Ayurveda formulated by the combination of herbs like manjishtha  (Rubia cordifolia), pit papda (Fumaria officinalis), sariva (Hemidesmus indicus) and kumari (Aloe barbadensis). It pacifies the pitta dosha and rakta dhatu dushti. It purifies blood and gives a cooling effect and hence manages the discomforting symptoms of phytophotodermatitis.

Dosage: 1-2 Capsules twice daily, with plain water, after meals.

2. Gandhak Rasayan

Gandhak rasayan prepared by Planet Ayurveda is a classical formulation in vati form (tablet) that contains shuddha gandhak (purified sulfur). Its noble ayurvedic formula does wonders for people with skin disorder. Gandhak also acts as potent antiviral, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic. It provides relief with the symptoms  like itching, redness, rashes, blisters, burning sensation.

Dosage: 1-2 tablets twice or thrice daily with lukewarm water.

3. Kustha Rakshas Tel

Kustha Rakshas tel is  exclusively formulated by Planet Ayurveda with a mix of  herbs for skin related conditions. It is really wonderful in blood related disorders. It pacifies pitta dosha and rakta dhatu dushti. The ayurvedic oil is made up of rasona (Allium sativum), bakuchi (Psoralea corylifolia), aragwadha (Cassia fistula), shuddha parada (purified mercury), shuddha gandhak (purified sulfur), rasa sindoors (combination of mercury and sulphur), tamra bhasma (calcined copper), manahshila (arsenic sulphide) and mustard oil. Bakuchi, tamra bhasm, ras sindoor, gandhak are very potent in managing kustha (skin disorder).

Dosage: It has to be applied externally twice or thrice a day. Before application kindly wash the affected area.

4. Royal Honey Shower Gel

Royal honey shower gel is the formulation by Planet Ayurveda which is very soothing and calming. It has  honey, aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis), tea tree extract (Melaleuca) (alternifolia) and other things. The ingredients present in the gel gives a cooling effect making skin relieved from itching, redness, and rashes. Hence giving releve from the symptoms of phytophotodermatitis.

Method of Application: Squeeze a small amount onto a wet body sponge or pouffe. Work into a rich creamy lather and then rinse clean.

5. Dermo Plan Syrup

Dermoplan is a polyherbal formulation by Planet Ayurveda which provides healthy skin. The syrup contains the extract of the herbs including manjistha (Rubia cordifolia), giloy (Tinospora cordifolia), chopchini (Smilax china), sariva (Hemidesmus indicus), neem (Azadirachta indica), khadir (Areca catechu), haridra (Curcuma longa), shobhanjan (Moringa oleifera), gorakhmundi (Sphaeranthus indicus) and others. All the skin disorders are due to pitta and rakta dushti hence dermo plan syrup  acts as a very good blood purifier. With the amalgam of such good herbs Dermo plan syrup is able to manage the symptoms of phytophotodermatitis.

Dosage: 1-2 teaspoons twice.

Conclusion

According to the above mentioned description, phytophotodermatitis is a skin inflammatory condition caused by contact with certain plant chemicals (furocoumarins)  followed by sunlight giving rise to symptoms like blisters, burning sensation, inflammation etc. In modern medicine symptoms can be relieved by anti inflammatory, anti histamines. Ayurveda manages the disease by balancing pitta and rakta and providing healthy looking skin. Products prepared by Planet Ayurveda are of best quality and have no side effects. Products mentioned here are miraculous in managing the symptoms of phytophotodermatitis.