ASHA : Centre for Integrative Dermatology

ASHA – Centre for Integrative Dermatology is a new initiative launched by Ashtamgam Ayurveda in 2025, expanding its scope to provide comprehensive care for patients with dermatological conditions.

Integrative healthcare involves combining all available treatment options in a coordinated manner to address a specific health concern. It focuses on identifying the root cause by considering all aspects of the individual’s health and well-being. This approach promotes collaboration between various medical systems, incorporating traditional, conventional, and evidence-based complementary treatments to achieve optimal healing and long-term wellness.

Ayurveda has consistently adopted an integrative and holistic approach to health, especially in dermatology, by evaluating skin conditions in connection with their root causes and underlying systemic imbalances.

ASHA is a one-of-a-kind center where an Ayurvedic medical college hospital offers integrative dermatology. We unite leading experts from various medical fields related to dermatology, fostering collaboration to ensure patients receive the benefits of all available treatment options while respecting their individual healing philosophies.

Q: What is integrative dermatology?

Integrative approaches to treating skin conditions remain underexplored, despite the growing need for holistic solutions to manage chronic and recurring dermatological issues. In Ayurveda, the skin is viewed as a reflection of inner metabolism, often mirroring underlying health imbalances. As the body’s largest organ, its condition is intricately linked to overall well-being.

Our Centre for Integrative Dermatology bridges this gap by blending Ayurveda’s comprehensive approach—considering both internal and external factors—with the most effective practices of conventional dermatology. Integrative dermatology is a patient-centered synthesis of diverse healthcare traditions, striving for optimal patient outcomes. By combining traditional Eastern medicine with modern Western practices, we empower individuals to make well-informed decisions about their skin health.

Q: What kinds of skin conditions do we treat with an integrative approach?

Our dedicated initiative, the Centre for Integrative Management of Psoriasis (CIMP), operates under our Integrative Dermatology Centre, with a strong focus on psoriasis management. However, we also address a wide range of skin conditions, including acne, eczema, lichen planus, rosacea, hidradenitis suppurativa, alopecia (hair loss), urticaria (hives), seborrheic dermatitis, fungal infections, pemphigus, and lupus.

While an integrative approach offers benefits for all skin conditions, more complex cases particularly benefit from a deeper exploration of their underlying disease processes, allowing for more comprehensive and effective management.

Q: How would our integrative dermatology approach differ from a conventional approach?

Conventional dermatological treatments, such as steroidal and non-steroidal creams or medications, primarily aim to alleviate skin symptoms. In contrast, Ayurveda takes a deeper approach by addressing the root causes of skin manifestations and focusing on long-term correction rather than just symptom management. This holistic perspective shifts the focus from merely treating the disease to caring for the whole patient.

At our Integrative Dermatology Centre, we blend the strengths of both approaches, providing necessary symptomatic relief while working towards deeper systemic healing. We consider various factors, including lifestyle, mental health, gut health, sleep, stress, environmental influences, and co-existing health conditions. Through a collaborative approach that integrates Ayurveda, modern medicine, yoga, naturopathy, diet, nutrition, and other healing modalities, we empower patients with comprehensive, well-rounded care for lasting skin health.

Q: What’s the benefit of an integrative dermatology appointment with us?

Most patients we treat are already on modern medications. In such cases, we carefully assess their current treatment and, when necessary, recommend dose adjustments or withdrawal plans in coordination with their primary physician. However, this process can become challenging if practitioners from different medical systems do not collaborate, potentially leading to unnecessary medications and undesirable effects for the patient.

At our Integrative Dermatology Centre, consultations bring together physicians from various medical systems who understand and embrace an integrative approach. This ensures that treatment plans are holistic, patient-centered, and aligned with the core philosophy of healing and overall well-being—without compromising the principles of any medical system.

Through our integrative approach we aim towards

1. Reducing dependency of medicines
2. Minimising the risks of side effects
3. Longer period of remission
4. Disease specific Rasayana chikitsa
5. Aggressive symptomatic management where ever necessary
6. Overall systemic and metabolic corrections

Q: What types of treatments can this offer?

In our  integrative centre, we are assessing and treating a patient  primarily based on the philosophy and practice of Ayurveda but would take the help and experience of experts of other specialities like modern dermatology, diet and nutrition, naturopathy, functional medicine, yoga and meditation. The treatments are determined by considering many health factors using a thorough history and examination. While using traditional ayurvedic modalities of treatment, the therapy plan can be tailored by including options from modern medicine & medications, dietary counseling, nutrition protocols & supplements, mindfulness techniques, smriti meditation, yoga & pranayama and other complementary modalities as applicable. 

The ayurvedic treatment for psoriasis usually includes medicines, specific therapeutic detoxification (sodhana), external therapies like takra dhara, abhyanga, navara and rasayana chikitsa specific to psoriasis.

Q: How is psoriasis management benefitted through our Integrative care?

Psoriasis is an immune-mediated inflammatory skin condition with a genetic predisposition. However, it extends far beyond the skin, with deep systemic connections. Addressing factors such as lifestyle, diet, sleep, hormonal imbalances, gut health, stress, and psychological well-being can have a lasting and stabilizing impact on psoriasis. Studies have shown that even a modest weight reduction of 5 kg can significantly improve the overall psoriatic disease burden. Similarly, the links between psoriasis, gut health, and sleep are well established.

Systemic inflammation plays a crucial role in psoriasis and is closely tied to conditions such as insulin resistance, prediabetes, metabolic disorders, obesity, and cardiovascular health. These conditions are interconnected both ways, reinforcing the need for a holistic approach. Managing psoriasis should go beyond surface-level treatment—it must focus on internal corrections to prevent progression, reduce associated comorbidities, and achieve longer remission periods.

At our centre, we collaborate with experts to create individualized treatment plans that provide both symptom relief and root-cause correction. Our approach integrates Ayurvedic detoxification (Sodhana), medical management, external therapies, and psoriasis-specific Rasayana with personalized diet and lifestyle guidance, targeted nutritional supplementation, and tailored yoga and meditation practices.

While our goal is to minimize long-term medication dependence, we strategically utilize modern therapeutic interventions when necessary to provide effective symptomatic relief, ensuring a balanced and patient-centered approach to psoriasis management.

Q: How ‘Smriti Meditation’ helps patients with psoriasis? 

Smriti meditation is a guided, interactive therapy meditative technique designed meticulously for the prevention, diagnosis and management of psychosomatic illness. Painful emotions when deep seated may be a key factor in the manifestation of symptoms in psychosomatic illness including Psoriasis.   In Smriti meditation the practitioner guides the client to a deeper state of consciousness in an effective easy way to identify and address the emotional and psychic element behind the disease. This identification will solve major problems and help in healing . 

 The relationship between stress and psoriasis is thought to be mediated by release of the stress hormone cortisol. Smriti  meditation facilitates  self analysis, introspection  , intellectual wellness and mind transformation and thus plays a key role in stress management. 

Smriti meditation brings about inner peace and emotional balance as any other mindfulness meditation and  leads to lower itch catastrophizing and lower fear of negative evaluation and subsequently also to a better skin status. 

Q: What is Rasayana Chikitsa and how does it help patients with Psoriasis?

Rasayana refers to the rejuvenation and healthy regeneration of the body. Ayurveda emphasizes various methods for overall rejuvenation, including principles of ideal living and specific social practices. Additionally, for certain diseases, there are targeted therapies and medicines that offer similar rejuvenating effects. Research has shown that Rasayana therapy in psoriasis promotes healthy skin tissues, induces promising histopathological changes, and supports complete remission with a lower risk of recurrence.

In the management of psoriasis, drugs such as Tuvaraka, Gandhaka, Bakuchi, and Bhallataka have been identified to demonstrate rasayana effects by ayurvedic texts. However, undergoing traditional Rasayana therapy for its disease-modifying and rejuvenating effects can be challenging due to its procedural complexities. Our center offers a practical approach, tailoring these therapies for suitable patients to ensure optimal benefits.

Q: What is the role of nutrients and nutritional supplements in psoriasis care?

Nutritional supplements can play a supportive role in managing psoriasis. While some supplements show promise, the evidence varies.

Among them, fish oils (rich in omega-3 fatty acids) have the strongest scientific support, as they help reduce inflammation and improve skin lesions. Vitamin D, particularly in topical form, is effective. Some studies suggest internal usage may also help, especially in individuals with vitamin D deficiency.

Selenium and vitamin B12 may also offer potential benefits by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, though conclusive evidence is lacking. Despite limited definitive proof for some supplements, they remain relatively safe options with minimal side effects.

Certain dietary strategies into psoriasis management may help reduce inflammation and support skin health. However, as evidence is still emerging, clear guidelines are yet to be established. A collaborative approach between nutritionists and dermatologists is needed to optimize dietary interventions. While not standalone treatments, these supplements can serve as safe complementary tools in a holistic approach to psoriasis care, especially in patients with deficiencies.

Q: How does diet and gut health help psoriasis?

Numerous studies highlight the impact of diet on psoriasis, emphasizing the benefits of including or eliminating specific nutrients and food products. When designing a diet for psoriasis patients, it is essential to consider co-morbidities and take preventive measures against conditions to which they are more vulnerable.

A psoriasis-friendly diet should be varied and tailored to the individual. Patients are advised to avoid alcohol, animal fats, red meat, simple sugars, and highly processed foods. Instead, their diet should be rich in vegetables, fruits (as sources of antioxidants), vegetable oils, nuts, and marine fish, which provide omega-3 fatty acids. Whole-grain cereals and legumes should also be incorporated. In some cases, a gluten-free diet and vitamin D supplementation may be beneficial.

Proper dietary management can positively influence both psoriasis progression and associated co-morbidities like obesity, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular issues, insulin resistance, and diabetes. A holistic and practical approach, considering regional traditions and individual habits, is essential in crafting an effective diet plan. Additionally, guided fasting practices have shown significant benefits in managing psoriasis. A well-structured, consistent dietary approach can enhance treatment outcomes, improve overall health, and support long-term disease management.

Q: How can integrative dermatology practice reduce side-effects of conventional psoriasis management?

Side effects are common with steroidal and disease-modifying drugs used in psoriasis management. An integrative approach helps minimize or eliminate the need for these harsh chemical medications by incorporating safer alternatives. It also reduces dependence on long-term medication, significantly lowering the burden on the liver and kidneys over time.

Q: What are other benefits of managing psoriasis through an integrated approach?

Psoriasis is not just a skin condition—it carries a risk of progressing into arthritis and increases susceptibility to cardiac and metabolic diseases, obesity, hypertension, depression, and stress. Conventional medicine primarily focuses on symptom management, often overlooking these broader health concerns.

A holistic, integrative approach goes beyond symptom relief, proactively addressing underlying risks and preventing disease progression. By designing a patient-centered, personalized care plan, this approach naturally incorporates strategies to manage psoriasis while simultaneously reducing the likelihood of associated conditions.

In the short term, this means not only treating psoriasis but also improving overall health and well-being. In the long run, it serves as a comprehensive strategy to prevent future health complications, ensuring a more balanced and sustainable path to wellness.

Q: How should you prepare for your integrative dermatology consultation?

To ensure a comprehensive evaluation, you will need to schedule your appointment and be prepared to spend adequate time with our experts. Following an initial assessment, a consultation with our modern dermatologist will be scheduled for a later day if necessary.

For the best experience, we recommend bringing all relevant medical reports and details of previous treatments. Online consultations are also available when needed, and it is important to share your complete medical history in advance for a thorough virtual assessment.

Depending on your condition, you may receive expert consultations from specialists in Ayurveda, diet and nutrition, yoga, meditation, and modern medicine. A personalized management plan will then be collaboratively designed to suit your specific needs and possibilities.