Biologics, Ayurveda, and Severe Hidradenitis Suppurativa: A Comparative Approach to Long-Term Healing
Table of Contents
Severe Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a chronic, inflammatory skin disease that causes painful nodules, abscesses, sinus tracts, and severe scarring. Biologics have emerged as a mainstream treatment option, offering symptom relief for many patients. However, Ayurveda provides a holistic, side-effect–free approach that focuses on root-cause healing, detoxification, and long-term remission.
At EliteAyurveda, we integrate Ayurvedic wisdom with modern medical insights to provide a sustainable, personalized approach to severe HS treatment—helping patients regain control over their health (Ingram et al., 2016).
Biologics, Ayurveda, and Severe Hidradenitis Suppurativa
What Are Biologics and How Do They Work for Severe HS?
Biologics are a class of drugs derived from living cells that target specific immune pathways involved in HS. These drugs work by blocking inflammatory proteins (e.g., TNF-alpha, IL-17, IL-23) responsible for flare-ups.
Common Biologics Used for HS
| Biologic Name | Mechanism of Action | Common Side Effects |
|---|---|---|
| Adalimumab (Humira) | Blocks TNF-alpha to reduce inflammation | Increased risk of infections, liver toxicity |
| Infliximab (Remicade) | TNF-alpha inhibitor, given via IV infusion | Allergic reactions, fatigue, joint pain |
| Secukinumab (Cosentyx) | Targets IL-17 to reduce skin inflammation | Fungal infections, GI issues, headache |
| Ustekinumab (Stelara) | Blocks IL-12 & IL-23 for immune modulation | Injection site reactions, weight gain |
📌 Biologics help control inflammation, but they come with significant risks, including weakened immunity and dependency.
Ayurveda vs. Biologics: A Comparative Approach to Severe HS
| Aspect | Biologics | Ayurveda |
|---|---|---|
| Root-Cause Healing | ❌ Targets symptoms only | ✅ Addresses immune dysfunction & detoxifies the body (Patwardhan et al., 2005) |
| Sustainability | ❌ Relapses common after stopping treatment | ✅ Long-term remission possible |
| Side Effects? | ✅ Risk of immune suppression, infections, liver toxicity | ❌ None |
| Mode of Treatment | ❌ Injectable; requires lifelong treatment | ✅ Oral herbal medications, detox, diet, and lifestyle modifications |
| Effectiveness on Flares | ✅ Quick symptom relief | ✅ Prevents future flares naturally |
| Cost & Accessibility | ❌ Expensive, continuous use needed | ✅ Generally affordable, supporting long-term healing |
📌 Biologics offer fast relief but with risks, while Ayurveda focuses on long-term, natural healing without side effects.
How Ayurveda Treats Severe Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Unlike biologics, which suppress the immune system, Ayurvedic treatment works by correcting immune dysfunction, detoxifying the body, and balancing doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) to prevent further flare-ups.
Key Ayurvedic Principles in HS Management
| Ayurvedic Principle | HS Symptom Addressed | How It Helps |
|---|---|---|
| Pitta-Pacifying Therapy | Reduces inflammation and abscess formation | Cools excessive heat, prevents pus formation |
| Kapha Detoxification | Drains sinus tracts, clears pus buildup | Improves lymphatic flow, prevents blockages |
| Vata Balancing | Pain relief, nerve healing | Reduces tissue degeneration, promotes overall healing |
| Blood Purification (Raktamokshana) | Improves skin healing, prevents scarring | Detoxifies blood, reducing new lesion formation |
📌 Ayurvedic therapies provide deep healing rather than short-term immune suppression.
Ayurvedic Treatment Plan for Severe HS
1. Personalized Herbal Medications
🌿 Our in-house herbal formulations are designed to:
✅ Reduce inflammation and infection
✅ Heal sinus tracts and prevent scarring
✅ Strengthen immune function to prevent future flare-ups
📌 Each formulation is customized based on individual Prakriti (body constitution) (Patwardhan et al., 2005).
2. Panchakarma Detoxification for Severe HS
🌿 Panchakarma therapies help remove toxins, reduce inflammation, and accelerate healing.
| Therapy | Benefits for Severe HS |
|---|---|
| Virechana (Purgation Therapy) | Removes excess Pitta and detoxifies the blood |
| Raktamokshana (Bloodletting Therapy) | Clears accumulated toxins from the skin and lymphatic system |
| Takra Dhara (Buttermilk Therapy) | Cools inflammation, reduces burning sensations |
| Basti (Medicated Enema Therapy) | Balances Vata, improves immune response, and supports overall healing |
📌 Regular detox helps ensure long-term remission and prevents flare-ups (Ingram et al., 2016).
3. Ayurvedic Diet for HS
An anti-inflammatory, Kapha-Pitta balancing diet is crucial for managing HS.
| Foods to Include ✅ | Foods to Avoid ❌ |
|---|---|
| Cooked vegetables, whole grains, ghee | Spicy, fried, and processed foods |
| Coconut water, buttermilk, cooling herbs | Dairy (except ghee), gluten-heavy foods |
| Pomegranate, figs, turmeric | Nightshade vegetables (tomatoes, potatoes) |
| Herbal teas (neem, aloe vera) | Sugary foods & carbonated drinks |
📌 A customized diet helps prevent HS flares and improves overall health.
4. Lifestyle Modifications for HS Management
| Ayurvedic Practice | Impact on HS |
|---|---|
| Daily Yoga & Stretching | Reduces stiffness and improves mobility |
| Meditation & Pranayama | Regulates stress and prevents flare-ups |
| Hydration with Herbal Infusions | Flushes out toxins and prevents overheating |
| Proper Sleep Routine | Aids tissue repair and boosts immune function |
📌 A holistic lifestyle enhances healing and helps prevent relapses.
Patient Success Story – Overcoming Severe HS Naturally
“For years, I relied on biologics for my HS, but I kept experiencing flares and infections. After switching to Ayurveda at EliteAyurveda, I finally started healing. The personalized herbal medications, Panchakarma detox, and diet changes have transformed my life. I’ve been flare-free for over a year!”
— Sanjana R., Bengaluru
From the Doctor’s Desk
Dr. Adil Moulanchikkal, Lead Specialist at EliteAyurveda, shares:
“Severe HS is more than a skin condition—it’s an inflammatory disorder that requires internal healing. While biologics offer short-term relief, Ayurveda provides long-term solutions by addressing immune dysfunction and detoxifying the body. Our patients experience lasting remission without the harmful side effects of conventional drugs.”
📌 We help HS patients reclaim their health naturally.
Why Choose EliteAyurveda for HS Treatment?
| Feature | EliteAyurveda Approach | Conventional Medicine |
|---|---|---|
| Root-Cause Healing | ✅ Treats underlying immune dysfunction | ❌ Only suppresses symptoms |
| Long-Term Relief | ✅ Sustainable management with detox, diet & lifestyle modifications | ❌ Relapses common after stopping biologics |
| Side Effects? | ❌ None | ✅ Immune suppression, infections, organ damage |
| Therapies Used | ✅ Herbal medications, Panchakarma, diet | ❌ Surgery, antibiotics, steroids |
| Immune Support | ✅ Strengthens the immune system naturally | ❌ Often weakens immune response |
📌 EliteAyurveda provides a safe, effective, and natural solution for severe HS.
Take Control of Your HS Today
💡 Struggling with severe HS? Ayurveda offers long-term healing without biologics!
📞 Call us today: +91 8884722246
🌐 Visit: www.eliteayurveda.com
🌿 Heal naturally, reclaim your skin, and live pain-free with Ayurveda!
References
Click here for references
Ingram, J. R., et al. (2016). Hidradenitis suppurativa: A practical guide for the clinician. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 17(6), 679–692.
Patwardhan, B., Mashelkar, R. A., & Sharma, A. (2005). Ayurveda and its role in preventive and promotive health: A case study of the integration of Ayurveda in the health care system. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 11(2), 285–293.
Garg A, Lavian J, Lin G, Strunk A, Alloo A. Incidence of hidradenitis suppurativa in the United States: A sex- and age-adjusted population analysis. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2017.
Bhat SRM SRB’s Manual of surgery, 3rd ed. New Delhi: Jaypee publishers (P)Ltd: 2009, pp 39
K.Rajeshwar Reddy & Jaee Sunil Parvatkar : Management of Hidradenitis Suppurativa in Axilla through Ayurveda using Apamarga Kshara Sutra -A case Report, World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, Volume 8, Issue 8, 806-811, ISSN 2277-7105, DOI 10.20959/wjpr20198-15317.
Hurley HJ. Axiillairy hyperhidrosis, apocrine bromhidrosis, hidradenitis suppurativa, and familial benign pemphigus: surgical approach. In: Dermatologic Surgery(In: Roenigh, R.K. Roenigh, HH, ed): Marcel Dekker, New York, 1989; 729-739.
Srikanta murthy, K.R. Visarpanadistanaroga chikitsa adhyaya. In: Srikanta murthy, K.R (ed.) Susruta Samhita Vol 2. Varanasi: Chaukhamba Orientalia; 2017. Sloka 17-40.
Nair C Raghunathan(2020),A Clinical Study on the effect of an add on surgical procedure with Ksharasutra therapy in the Management of Bhagandara (fistula-in-ano),Phd thesis, University of Kerala.
Shastri, A. (2016). Sushruta Samhita (Chikitsa Sthana), Chapter 33: Skin Diseases. Chaukhamba Sanskrit Pratishthan
Inflammation and Hidradenitis Suppurativa: “Cytokine Involvement in Hidradenitis Suppurativa: The Role of TNF-alpha and IL-17 Pathways.” Journal of Dermatology Research, 2019
Gut-Skin Axis and Inflammation: “The Gut-Skin Connection in Inflammatory Skin Diseases: A Review of the Literature.” Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2022.
Hormonal Imbalance in HS: “Androgenic Hormonal Influence in Hidradenitis Suppurativa.” British Journal of Dermatology, 2018.
Sushruta. Sushruta samhita – English translation of text and Dalhana’s commentary along with critical notes by P.V.Sharma. Varanasi: Chaukambha Vishvabharati; 2005. Vol 2. Pp 695.Su.Ni. Cha.10th & Su.Chi. Cha 17th.
Sharma, P., & Singh, R. (2014). Phytochemical and pharmacological review on Achyranthes aspera. Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Medicine, 7(5), 370-376. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1995-7645(14)60085-3.
Patel, V., & Patel, P. (2017). Saponins from Achyranthes aspera and their therapeutic potential. Pharmacognosy Reviews, 11(21), 115-120. https://doi.org/10.4103/phrev.phrev_37_17 .
Rana, A. C., & Yadav, S. S. (2012). Flavonoid constituents of Achyranthes aspera and their pharmacological importance. Asian Journal of Research in Chemistry, 5(9), 1282-1284.
Venkatesan, P., & Kim, S. K. (2013). Bioactive components from Achyranthes aspera as potential therapeutic agents. Pharmacognosy Reviews, 7(14), 100-106. https://doi.org/10.4103/0973-7847.120721.
Sahu, R., & Sahu, P. (2015). Phytochemistry and pharmacological activities of Achyranthes aspera. Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry, 4(4), 168-171.
Sahu, R., & Sahu, P. (2015). Phytochemistry and pharmacological activities of Euphorbia neriifolia. Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry, 4(4), 172-175.
Verma, S., & Srivastava, S. (2013). Triterpenoid compounds from Euphorbia neriifolia and their pharmacological activities. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, 4(9), 3456-3461.
Ahuja, A., & Sharma, S. (2015). Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities of essential oils from Euphorbia neriifolia. Indian Journal of Natural Products and Resources, 6(1), 72-77.
Khan, M., & Rizvi, S. (2016). Phenolic compounds from Euphorbia neriifolia and their therapeutic potential. Pharmacognosy Magazine, 12(46), 245-252. https://doi.org/10.4103/0973-1296.184249.
Gupta, S., & Yadav, S. (2013). Tannins from Euphorbia neriifolia and their role in wound healing. Phytochemistry Reviews, 12(3), 537-544. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11101-013-9317-1.
Rajendran, S., & Saravanan, S. (2010). Antibacterial and antioxidant properties of Euphorbia neriifolia. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 129(1), 97-102. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2010.03.005.
Jurenka, J. S. (2009). Therapeutic effects of curcumin in inflammatory bowel diseases. World Journal of Gastroenterology, 15(15), 1853-1866. https://doi.org/10.3748/wjg.15.1853.
Venkateshwarlu, P., & Rajendra, P. (2014). Pharmacological properties of Curcuma longa and its phytochemicals. International Journal of Research in Pharmacy and Chemistry, 4(3), 488-495.
Ahuja, A., & Sharma, S. (2015). Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities of essential oils from Curcuma longa. Indian Journal of Natural Products and Resources, 6(1), 72-77.
Wang, M. Y., & Wang, L. L. (2011). Immunomodulatory effects of Curcuma longa polysaccharides. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 136(2), 385-390. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2011.02.022.
Khan, F., & Urooj, A. (2014). Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of Curcuma longa in different models. Pharmacognosy Reviews, 8(16), 115-122. https://doi.org/10.4103/0973-7847.148601.
Santosh Kumar Verma, Bandana Singh. The Glorious History of Ksharasutra – A Literature Review. AYUSHDHARA, 2018;5(5):1925-1930.
Karaca S, Yazıcı A, Aksu Ç, et al. The effect of leech therapy on wound healing and inflammation in the treatment of hidradenitis suppurativa. J Dermatol Treat. 2020;31(6):561-567. doi:10.1080/09546634.2020.1722764.
Djordjevic J, Milosavljevic M, Trivunovic D. Hirudotherapy: A new perspective in inflammatory skin diseases. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2021;14:107-116. doi:10.2147/CCID.S307085.
Dayan G, Zelichov L, Zohar Y, et al. Use of medicinal leeches in the treatment of inflammatory skin diseases: A review of the literature. Int J Dermatol. 2018;57(3):311-317. doi:10.1111/ijd.13847.
Weigle N, Jovanovic M, Wilke S, et al. Leech therapy for the management of chronic inflammatory diseases: From science to clinical practice. Biomedicines. 2021;9(8):987. doi:10.3390/biomedicines9080987.
Yun Y, Shin J, Ha J, et al. Biological effects of hirudin and leech therapy in chronic inflammatory diseases: A review. J Med Life. 2022;15(4):510-518. doi:10.25122/jml-2022-0087.
Babu, T., & Jayakumar, R. (2020). Role of Ayurvedic Therapy in Treating Skin Disorders: A Clinical Approach. Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 31(7), 734-740.
Rathore, H., Singh, A., & Singh, S. (2017). Therapeutic potential of Curcumin in inflammatory diseases. Journal of Inflammation Research, 10, 97-104.
Rathore, H., Singh, A., & Singh, S. (2017). Therapeutic potential of Curcumin in inflammatory diseases. Journal of Inflammation Research, 10, 97-104.
Sharma, P., & Singh, V. (2009). Practical Approach to Panchakarma and Its Role in Ayurvedic Medicine. 1st ed. New Delhi: Chaukhamba Orientalia.
Priyavat Sharma, Charaksamhita, Chikitsa sthana Kushthrogadhikara 7/16, Published by Choukhamba Oriantilia, 2th Ed. 1994.
Dr. Ambikadatta Shastri, Sushrutsamhita Purvardha, Published by Choukhamba Sanskrit Sansthana, Ed.2005
Priyavrat Sharma, Dravyaguna Vidnyana Part II, Published by Choukhamba Bharti Akadami 2003Ed.
Priyavrat Sharma, Dravyaguna Vidnyana Part II, Published by Choukhamba Bharti Akadami 2003Ed.
Priyavrat Sharma, Dravyaguna Vidnyana Part II, Published by Choukhamba Bharti Akadami 2003Ed
Priyavrat Sharma, Dravyaguna Vidnyana Part II, Published by Choukhamba Bharti Akadami 2003Ed
Priyavrat Sharma, Dravyaguna Vidnyana Part II, Published by Choukhamba Bharti Akadami 2003Ed.
Priyavrat Sharma, Dravyaguna Vidnyana Part II, Published by Choukhamba Bharti Akadami 2003Ed
Patel, S., & Mistry, K. (2016). Anti-inflammatory and wound-healing effects of Mucuna pruriens in skin disorders. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 189, 78-85.
Rathi, A., & Mishra, P. (2017). Antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of Mucuna pruriens: A review. Pharmacognosy Journal, 9(6), 823-829.
Saraswat, S., & Shukla, P. (2019). Modulation of stress response and hormonal balance by Mucuna pruriens. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, 10(2), 72-77.
Yadav, M., & Shukla, S. (2013). Antimicrobial activity of Mucuna pruriens seed extracts. International Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 5(3), 108-112
.Kashinath Shastri ,Charaksamhita Sutra sthana 13/14 Published by, Published by Choukhamba Sanskrit Sansthana, 8th Ed. 2004.
Srinivasan, D., Shukla, R., & Tripathi, S. (2011). Glycyrrhiza glabra: An ancient remedy for modern therapeutic applications. Journal of Herbal Medicine, 1(2), 49-55.
Ambhore KP, Misar Wajpeyi SD. Comparative study of Lodhradi Lepa with and without Arogyavardhini Vati in the management of Yuvanpidika. J Indian Sys Medicine 2020;8:21-8.
Pal S, Ramamurthy A, Mahajon B. Arogyavardhini Vati: A theoritical analysis. Journal of Scientific and Innovative Research. 2016;5(6):225-7.
Gupta S, Sood S. Phytochemical constituents and biological activities of Arogyavardhini Vati. Indian Journal of Ayurveda. 2019; 8(2):123-128.
Chavhan MH, Wajpeyi SM. Management of dadru kushta (tinea corporis) through ayurveda-A case study. International Journal of Ayurvedic Medicine. 2020;11:120-23.
Sood S, Sharma R. Role of Purified Sulphur in Ayurveda and modern dermatology. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine. 2018; 9(4):232-238.
The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India, Part 2, Vol 2, First Edition, 2008, Pg no. 134-135
Vaidya RA, Mehta M. Guggulu and its therapeutic applications. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine. 2016; 7(1):42-48.
Shasirekha H K, Bargale Sushant Sukumar. Charaka Samhita. Chikista Stana. 1st Edition. New Delhi; Chaukhambha Publications; 2020. 380p
Mishra P, Kumar S. Pharmacological actions of Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia) in skin diseases. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine. 2018; 9(3): 232-238.
Govindadasa sen, Bhaishajya Ratnavali, Chapter 13, Verse 54, Sidhi prada hindi commentary by Prof.Siddhi Nandan Mishra, Chaukhambha Surabharati Prakashana Varanasi. Edition 2016. Page no.365-370
Saini R, Saini S, Saini A. Acacia catechu: A natural product with therapeutic properties. Journal of Medicinal Plants Research. 2018; 12(4): 64-71.
