Vitiligo (Shvitra / Leucoderma)

Causes

In the Ayurvedic lens, autoimmune tendencies may be aggravated by viruddh āhāra sevana (mutually incompatible food combinations, e.g., fish with milk), creating toxins (ama) that disturb immunity and damage melanocytes. Vitiligo can also cluster with autoimmune/inflammatory diseases (e.g., thyroid disorders, diabetes, psoriasis, pernicious anemia) and may run in families.

Symptoms

• Well-defined depigmented (white) patches on skin (hands, feet, face, lips, etc.).
• Premature greying of scalp hair, eyelashes, eyebrows, or beard.
• Loss of pigment on mucosa (e.g., inside the mouth in darker skin tones).

Ayurvedic Perspective (Shvitra)

Vitiligo (Shvitra) is linked to aggravation of Pitta—specifically imbalance of Bhrājaka Pitta that governs skin coloration. This imbalance fosters ama and impairs deeper tissues—rasa (nutrient plasma), rakta (blood), māmsa (muscle), and lasikā (lymph)—leading to depigmentation. Care aims to pacify Pitta, clear ama, rekindle digestion, and support local skin health. These measures complement dermatology care and phototherapy where advised.

Diet & Lifestyle Advice

• Prefer whole grains (porridge, whole wheat) over refined carbs.
• Maintain good hydration through the day.
• Limit high-vitamin-C/sour items (e.g., citrus, tomatoes) if they aggravate; individualize with your clinician.
• Avoid non-veg foods like fish and red meat if advised; many lines avoid eggs, milk, and dairy with incompatible items.
• Skip alcohol, flavored sodas, ice creams, chocolates, and ultra-processed/junk foods.
• Avoid sour pickles, sour yogurt, and other strongly sour items; consider neem and mung dal in meals as tolerated.

Some Home Remedies

• Traditional application: 5 tsp turmeric powder mixed in ~250 ml mustard oil, applied to patches twice daily. (Patch-test first; discontinue if irritation; discuss with your clinician.)
• Many traditions suggest sipping water stored overnight in a copper vessel; this is a cultural practice—use food-grade vessels and routine hygiene.

Vitiligo requires individualized medical care; use home measures only as complementary, and avoid strong sun exposure on depigmented skin without guidance.

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