Written By: Arbaz Sayyad BPharm
Medically Reviewed By: Ayurvedacharya Dr. Gaurav Pathare, BAMS
In Ayurveda, the year is divided into six distinct seasons, each affecting the balance of doshas in the body. Sharad Ritu, the autumn season, extends from mid-September to mid-November (Ashwin and Kartik months in the Hindu calendar). This post-monsoon period is marked by clear skies, rising daytime temperatures, and decreasing humidity. During this season, Pitta dosha naturally aggravates, while Vata begins to accumulate. The digestive fire (Agni) remains moderate. Because of this shifting balance, the body becomes more prone to Pitta-related conditions, especially skin disorders (Twak Vikara).
Skin Disorders in Sharad Ritu
Twak Vikara, or skin diseases, is aggravated during autumn due to heightened Pitta. The skin reacts to heat, spicy foods, and sun exposure, making this season challenging for those already prone to dermatological issues. Common conditions seen in Sharad Ritu include
- Acne and boils
- Rashes and urticaria (Sheetpitta)
- Eczema and psoriasis (especially if both Pitta and Vata are involved)
- Hyperpigmentation
- Itching and burning sensations
These problems can range from temporary irritations to chronic, relapsing conditions, emphasizing the importance of preventive seasonal care.
Why Skin Diseases Worsen in Autumn
Pitta is characterized by qualities like heat, sharpness, and a tendency to spread quickly. With increased sun exposure and environmental warmth in Sharad Ritu, these qualities intensify. This leads to:
- Heightened skin sensitivity to heat and spicy foods
- Flare-ups of pre-existing Pitta imbalances
- Faster manifestation of hidden or underlying skin conditions
Thus, autumn becomes a high-risk season for dermatological flare-ups if precautions are not taken.
Ayurvedic Management of Skin Disorders
Shamana Chikitsa (Palliative Care)
Ayurveda recommends internal herbs and external applications to balance Pitta and purify the blood
Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia): Guduchi helps to cool down excess Pitta, reduce internal inflammation, and strengthen immunity, making it highly beneficial for recurring skin flare-ups.
Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia): Manjistha improves circulation, clears toxins from the bloodstream, and helps manage stubborn skin conditions like acne, eczema, and pigmentation.
Sariva (Hemidesmus indicus): Sariva is used to calm aggravated Pitta, detoxify the system, and provide relief from itching, burning, and skin irritation.
Haridra (Turmeric): Turmeric acts as a strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agent, helping to reduce redness, itching, and infections while supporting overall skin healing.
Neem (Azadirachta indica): Neem works as a potent antimicrobial that balances both Pitta and Vata, prevents bacterial and fungal skin infections, and promotes clear and healthy skin.
Triphala: Triphala gently detoxifies the digestive system, supports proper metabolism, and by keeping the gut clean, indirectly improves skin clarity and resilience.
External remedies include herbal pastes (Lepa) with Manjistha, Haridra, or Chandana; bathing with neem or Triphala decoctions; and cooling herbal pours (Kashaya Dhara).
Shodhana Chikitsa (Detoxification via Panchakarma)
For deeper imbalances, Panchakarma therapies are emphasized in Sharad Ritu:
Virechana (Purgation): Considered the main therapy, it expels aggravated Pitta through controlled purgation. Herbs like Trivrit and Avipattikar Churna are used, after preparatory oiling (Snehana) and sweating (Swedana).
Raktamokshana (Bloodletting): Recommended for severe conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and recurrent boils to remove vitiated blood.
Local therapies (Lepa & Parisheka): Application of medicated pastes and decoction washes.
Seasonal Diet for Healthy Skin
Diet plays a central role in preventing Pitta flare-ups:
Recommended foods
Cooling and light items with sweet, bitter, and astringent tastes
Ghee (especially medicated like Tikta Ghrita)
Aloe Vera, Amla, Guduchi juice
Gourds, pumpkin, cucumber, ridge gourd
Easily digestible grains like rice, barley, wheat
Cooling drinks like coconut water and diluted buttermilk
Fruits like pomegranate, grapes, and pears
Herbal teas made from coriander, fennel, or mint
Foods to avoid:
Sour, salty, and spicy foods
Fermented preparations
Non-vegetarian, fried, and junk foods
Heavy dairy such as curd and cheese
Alcohol and carbonated beverages
Lifestyle Precautions
Adapting lifestyle habits is equally important during this season
Avoid sun exposure, especially at noon
Prefer cotton and breathable clothes
Use cool water or herbal decoctions for bathing
Refrain from anger and overexertion (both fuel Pitta)
Avoid daytime sleep to prevent Kapha-Pitta imbalance
Practice calming yoga and Sheetali pranayama
Simple Home Remedies
Ayurveda also offers gentle remedies for common complaints:
Burning sensation: Aloevera gel, rose water, or sandalwood paste
Itching: Neem leaf decoction bath
Acne: Turmeric and honey paste
Dryness: Coconut oil or medicated ghee
Pigmentation: Manjistha and milk face pack
Seasonal Ritucharya for autumn
Ayurveda emphasizes seasonal routines (Ritucharya) for preventive health:
Drink boiled, cooled water stored in clay or silver vessels
Take evening walks in moonlight to calm Pitta
Apply sandalwood paste on forehead and chest for cooling
Use herbal eyewashes like Triphala water
Exercise early in the morning, avoiding direct sun
Conclusion
Sharad Ritu is a season where Pitta dosha naturally rises, increasing the likelihood of skin disorders. By following Ayurvedic guidelines balancing diet, adopting lifestyle measures, using herbal therapies, and practicing Panchakarma when needed one can keep skin diseases away. With mindful seasonal care, skin health can be maintained and chronic issues prevented from worsening.
References
Ashtang Hrudaya Sutrasthan Chapter 3 /49-56
Ashtang Hrudaya Sutrasthan Chapter 13/4-9