Part of the Hidradenitis Suppurativa Knowledge Library
Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a chronic skin condition that manifests as painful boils, abscesses, and pustules primarily in areas where skin rubs together, such as the armpits, groin, buttocks, and under the breasts. While it may initially appear as a mere skin condition, HS can affect multiple body systems and significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. Treating HS effectively is crucial to prevent the condition from worsening or affecting other parts of the body.
Understanding Hidradenitis Suppurativa
To date, no medical treatment can entirely cure Hidradenitis Suppurativa. This condition primarily affects individuals who are genetically predisposed to autoimmune diseases. The exact cause of HS is unknown, and treatment must be individualized. HS is generally triggered by the body’s immune system, where it mistakenly attacks healthy skin tissue, causing inflammation and blockage of hair follicles (Gulliver et al., 2020; Saunte et al., 2020).
HS is a chronic autoimmune disease that cannot be cured but can be managed effectively. The disease starts when the immune system erroneously targets the body’s own tissues, leading to inflammation and abscess formation. As HS progresses from mild to severe, the burden of comorbidities often increases.
Associated Comorbidities:
Studies have shown that these comorbidities are significantly more frequent in adults with HS compared to those without HS. For instance, pilonidal cysts are 35 times more common in HS patients than in the general population (Kouris et al., 2016).
In Ayurveda, HS is considered a result of imbalances in the Kapha and Pitta doshas. When the digestive fire (Agni) or Pitta is out of balance, it can vitiate Kapha, slowing down metabolism. This disruption causes the accumulation of fat molecules in muscles, leading to painful, swollen sores in areas such as the groin, buttocks, thighs, and armpits.
Relevant Shloka:“क्षारो भिषग्द्वारपरः प्रतिषेधति दोषजं तत्।यस्मिन्सर्वे समीक्ष्यन्ते दोषा दोषा निवर्तकाः॥”(Charaka Samhita, Chikitsasthana 15.105)“Kshara (alkali) therapy, administered skillfully, overcomes dosha imbalances. When all factors are considered, doshas are rectified.”
Detoxification is a critical aspect of Ayurvedic treatment for HS. It involves cleansing the body of toxins and impurities that contribute to the progression of the illness. Detoxification can be facilitated through:
Internal medications are used to balance the doshas and address the underlying imbalances in HS. Ayurvedic practitioners provide individualized herbal formulations based on the patient’s Prakruti (constitution) and Vikruti (imbalance). These formulations may include anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and immune-modulating herbs (Singh et al., 2003).
Relevant Shloka:“त्रयो दोषा, प्रकृत्या च, दूष्यन्ति च बलात्कृताः।दोषास्तु बालदोषस्य, दूष्यन्ति सदा नवा॥”(Charaka Samhita, Sutrasthana 18.44)“Three doshas, inherently balanced, can become vitiated. These doshas, when aggravated, always need to be balanced anew.”
Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of lifestyle adjustments to support the treatment of HS. This includes:
Relevant Shloka:“रोगा: सर्वेऽपि मंदाग्नौ, क्षीणे तु बलवर्जिते।बलस्योत्पादनं तेषां, हेतुर्मेध्या: प्रकीर्तिता॥”(Charaka Samhita, Sutrasthana 18.49)“All diseases arise from a weak digestive fire. Strengthening the body and intellect is the remedy for all conditions.”
While conventional treatments for HS can provide relief, they often come with risks. Strong medications, such as antibiotics, immunosuppressants, and biologics, can cause adverse effects and long-term problems. These drugs frequently disrupt the immune system’s normal function, weakening the body’s defenses against illnesses. Moreover, several conventional treatments may require prolonged use, leading to dependence and antibiotic resistance (Saunte & Jemec, 2017).
We focus on treating the underlying causes or triggers of HS to achieve long-term remission rather than temporary relief. Our approach involves:
Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) can be a frightening condition, but with the right care, you can live a full and pleasant life. Public awareness and understanding of HS are growing, which helps reduce the stigma associated with it. Although it might initially seem like a minor skin condition, untreated or poorly managed HS can have serious consequences, leading to other comorbidities.
Ayurvedic medicine offers a holistic and personalized approach to managing HS, focusing on restoring balance and promoting long-term health. We are committed to providing compassionate care and guiding you on the path to well-being. Connect with us to learn more about our treatment plans and to speak with our patients about their experiences with Ayurveda.
For more information, visit EliteAyurveda and embrace the wisdom of Ayurveda for effective management and long-term relief from Hidradenitis Suppurativa.
Gulliver, W., Zouboulis, C. C., Prens, E., Jemec, G. B. E., & Tzellos, T. (2020). Evidence-based approach to the treatment of hidradenitis suppurativa/acne inversa, based on the European S1 guideline. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 34(7), 1485-1493. Link
Kouris, A., Armyra, K., Christodoulou, C., Karypidis, D., & Kontochristopoulos, G. (2016). Quality of life, psychiatric comorbidity, and economic impact of hidradenitis suppurativa. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 9, 105-112. Link
Kumar, N., Singh, B., & Kaushal, V. (2011). Panchakarma in skin diseases. AYU (An International Quarterly Journal of Research in Ayurveda, 32(4), 525. Link
Saunte, D. M. L., & Jemec, G. B. E. (2017). Hidradenitis suppurativa: Advances in diagnosis and treatment. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 76(1), 17-26. Link
Saunte, D. M. L., Boer, J., Stratigos, A., & Jemec, G. B. E. (2020). Diagnostic delay in hidradenitis suppurativa is a global problem. British Journal of Dermatology, 183(6), 988-994. Link
Sharma, R. K., Dash, B., & Dwyer, A. (2013). Charaka Samhita: Sanskrit text with English translation & critical exposition based on Cakrapani Datta’s Ayurveda dipika (Vol. 4). Chowkhamba Sanskrit Series Office. Link
Singh, S. S., Pandey, S. C., Srivastava, S., Gupta, V. S., Patro, B., & Ghosh, A. C. (2003). Chemistry and medicinal properties of Tinospora cordifolia (Guduchi). Indian Journal of Pharmacology, 35(2), 83-91. Link
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Medical disclaimer. This article is for general information and is not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Ayurvedic treatment at EliteAyurveda is individualised following clinical assessment. Do not start, stop or alter any prescribed medication without consulting your treating physician.
