Ayurvedic View and Nourishing Supplements for Skin (Twacha)
Abstract
Ayurveda, the “science of life”, is a real treasure trove of medical science. In the Sushruta Samhita-Shareer sthana, the oldest text of Ayurveda, Acharya Sushruta mentions the five organs or Gyanendriyas. Sparshanendriya is one of them, and its adishthana is Twacha (skin). As we all know, the skin is a function of touch, pain, pressure, temperature, etc. in the human body. It is the largest organ that can sense, and it is also called the “first line of defence.” The introduction explains this article: the etymology of Twacha, its synonyms, the Formation of skin, the Types of skin from different points of view of Acharyas, and Tips for healthy skin. Twacha (skin) is a general science when we study different and mysterious diseases prevalent today. Therefore, Tawacha will help in the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of many diseases.
Introduction
Ayurveda is classified into eight limbs from the point of view of medicine. This is called “Ashtanga Ayurveda”. Kayachikitsa has a prominent place in all the disciplines of Ayurveda. The respect that has been received from ancient times to the present and the reputation that has been gained from Ayurvedic action work could not be received from any other organ. Kayachikitsa mainly deals with general medicine, where KAYA means shrir (body) and CHIKITSA means treatment. The diagnosis and treatment of skin diseases—psoriasis, Eczema, Dermatitis, and other skin diseases As mentioned above, the skin is called the “first line of defence” because it protects us from germs and other invading elements. Acharya Charaka defines the skin as structures that cover the entire body.
Nirukti (Etymology) of Twacha
In Ayurveda, skin is stated as Twacha or Twak. It is Extendable and extensible. It is included under “Panch Gyanendriya Adhisthana”. Twacha is the adhisthana of “Pranadi Panch Vayu,” where Vayu resides and brings out its functions.
Paryaya (Synonyms) for Twacha
There are various names like Twacha, Charma, Chavi, Asrugdhara, Kruti, and many more.
Twacha Utpatti (Formation)
According to the Ayurvedic texts, it is stated that the development of skin occurs in Tritiya masa (3rd month) of Masanumasik garbha vriddhi (Month-wise development of the foetus).
तृतीयेहस्तपादशिरसांपञ्च पिण्डिका वि र्तन्तेऽङ्गप्रत्यङ्गवि भागश्च सूक्ष्मो भ ति।। ( सु.सं.शा. ३/१८)
During the 3rd month (8–12 weeks), Skin, hair, and nail development take place. Acharya Sushruta described the development of twacha in Sharira Sthana. According to Acharya Sushruta, the skin develops like a layer of cream (santanika) on milk (ksheer) after heat. The heat generated in the process of the union of Shukra (sperm) and Shonita (ovum) inside the womb during the Garbhanirmaana Kala forms the skin (twacha).
According to Acharya Charak, the formation of twacha and all sapta dhatu results from the union of Shukra (sperm) and Shonita (ovum).
Rachnatmaka and Kriyatamaka Aspects of Twacha
Twacha is the adhishthana of Sparshanendriya, as it carries the sensation of touch because of Vayu Mahabhuta. It covers the outer part of the body, including the sense organs. In the Kriyatamaka aspect, inspecting the part or role of Twacha (Skin), We will have to assess the effects of dosha (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), dhatu (Rasa, Rakta, Mamsa, Meda, Asthi, Majja and Sukhra), and mala (Purisha (Faeces), Mutra (Urine) and Sveda (Sweat)). Bhrajaka Pitta resides in our skin. and produces radiance. All diseases and ailments of the skin are caused by the vitiation of this Pitta, which causes yellowish discolouration of the skin. Vitiation of the Vata dosha results in hyperpigmentation (karshanyam) of the skin. Vitiation of Kapha dosha causes shaityam (coldness of the skin) and shaukalyam (whitish colouration of skin).
According to Acharya Charaka, twacha is the mula of mamsa vaha srotas and updhatu of Mamsadhatu. The first two dhatus, Rasa and Rakta, are indirectly related to Twacha (Skin).
रसाद्रक्तं ततो मांसं मांसान्मेदः प्रजायते। मेदस्यास्थिः ततो मज्जा मज्जायाः शुक्रसंभवः।।
That is, the food that is digested first produces juice. Blood is formed after digestion for five days. After five days, meat from blood, fat, bone, marrow, and finally Venus is formed from it, with a difference of 5–5 days. In this way, it takes about a month to become Venus from the diet.
While Acharaya Charak describes Ashtasaarpurush, he believes it is Twaksaarpurush, not Rasasaarpurush. The vitiation of Rakta dhatu causes Visarpa (erysipelas), Kushtha roga (tuberculoid leprosy), etc. Rakta dhatu kshayas (decrease) in the body causes twakaparushyam (roughness of the skin). The brilliance of Twacha is also revealed in the presence of Shukra Dhatu. The skin retains moisture and keeps itself hydrated. Therefore, the presence of sweat is important to keep the skin moist and elastic. Sveda (sweat) kshaya causes the skin to dry and crack (Twacha), while vridhi (rise) causes itching.
Types of Skin (Twacha)
According to Acharya Sushruta
Acharya Sushruta mentioned the concept of Twacha in Shareera Sthana, as Twacha has seven layers: (Sushruta Samhita, Sharira Sthana, Chapter 4, Garbh Vyakaran Sharir)
- Avabhasini
- Lohita
- Shveta
- Tamra
- Vedini
- Rohini
- Mamsadhara
According to Acharya Charaka
According to Acharya Charaka, there are six skin types. (Charak Samhita, Sharira Sthana, Chapter 7, Sharira Sankhya Sharira)
- Udakadhara
- Adrikdhara
- Tritiya twacha
- Chaturthi twacha
- Panchami twacha
- Shashthi twacha
According to Modern Science
Epidermis: the Superficial Layer of Skin on Your Body
- Stratum corneum (Horny Layer)
- Stratum Lucidum
- Stratum Granulosum
- Dermis: The inner layer of the two main layers of the skin.
- Malphagian layer
- Papillary layer
- Reticular layer
- Subcutaneous tissue and muscle
Acharya Sushruta
Avabhasini (Stratum Corneum)
The first layer of Twacha gives colour to the skin. When sunlight passes through this layer, it displays five colours and tones called Prabha. This layer makes up about 1/18th of a vrihi (rice grain). When affected, pimples, acne, dandruff, etc. arise on the body. It resembles the colour of Molten iron. Diseases affecting the layer- Padamakantaka (Papilloma)
Lohita (Stratum Lucidum)
The second layer of twacha is about 1/16th the size of the vrihi. It is the twakroga adhishthana (seat) of tila kaalaka (Non-elevated moles), nyachchha (pimples), and vyanga (acne vulgaris).
Shveta (Stratum Granulosum)
The third layer of twacha is about 1/12th of vrihi. It is the twakroga adhishthana of Charamdala, Ajagalli, and Mashaka (taenia infections of the skin and candidiasis).
Tamra (Malpighian Layer)
It is the fourth layer of Twacha and measures about 1/8th of the vrihi. It is the twakroga adhishthana of Vividha Kilasa (lepromatous) and Kushtha Roga (tuberculoid leprosy).
Vedini (Papillary Layer)
It is the fifth layer of Twacha and measures about 1/5th of the vrihi. It is the twakroga adhishthana of Kushtha roga (tuberculoid leprosy) and Visarpa (erysipelas).
Rohini (Reticular Layer)
It is the sixth layer of Twacha and measures about a vrihi. It is the twakroga adhishthana (seat) of Granthi (varicose veins), Apachi (benign tumours), Shleepada (Elephantiasis), Arbuda (tumours), and Galaganda (goitre).
Mamsadhara (Subcutaneous tissue)
It is the seventh layer and has a thickness of two vrihi. It is the twakroga adhishthana of Bhangandara (fistula-in-ano), Vidradhi (abscess), and Arshas (piles/haemorrhoids).
Acharya Charaka
शरीरे षट् त्वचः; तद्यथा- उदकधरा त्वग्बाह्या, द्वितीया त्वसृग्धरा, तृतीया सिध्मकिलाससम्भवाधिष्ठाना, चतुर्थीदद्रूकुष्ठसम्भवाधिष्ठाना, पञ्चमी त्वलजीविद्रधिसम्भवाधिष्ठाना, षष्ठी तु यस्यां छिन्नायां ताम्यत्यन्ध इव च तमः प्रविशतियां चाप्यधिष्ठायारूंषि जायन्ते पर्वसु कृष्णरक्तानि स्थूलमूलानि दुश्चिकित्स्यतमानि च; इति षट् त्वच:; एताः षडङ्गं शरीरमवतत्य तिष्ठन्ति||
Udakadhara
the outer layer of the skin (twacha) that is exposed to sunlight.
Adrikdhara
It carries rakta (blood). This is the second layer of Twacha.
- Tritiya twacha is called Tritiya because it is the third layer of twacha. It is the roga adishthana of Sidhma (Cloasme) and Kilasa (Leucoderma).
- Chaturthi twacha is called Chaturthi as it is the fourth set of twacha. It is the roga adhishthana of Dadru (ringworm) and Kushtha (skin disease).
- Panchami twacha: The 5th layer of Twacha is called Panchami. It is the roga adhishthana of Alaji (dermoid cyst) and Vidradhi (abscess).
- Shashthi twacha: It causes pain when it is cut, and the person feels like he is sinking in the dark. The disease occurs in these layers, making red-black pustules that are difficult to treat at the junction of the hard roots and the structure (tissue).
Herbs That Promote Better Skin Health
Sandalwood
Sandalwood (normally known as Chandan) can be an incredible expansion to your skincare schedule. Chandan or Shweta Chandana with its charming aroma, cooling impact and natural easing up fixings actually treats sun and dull spots and treats harsh skin.
Giloy
This herb, additionally called Guduchi, has strong mitigating characteristics. It diminishes aggravation and restores skin tissue. Alongside aiding the skin, the spice fortifies the resistant framework and encourages mental lucidity. Giloy can be tracked down in the type of tablets and can likewise be polished off by being made into a juice.
Amla
Amla is an excellent anti-ageing remedy because it contains vitamin C and antioxidants. Amla supports healthy skin and reduces signs of ageing. It also helps tighten your skin for a glowing face. Amla’s adaptogenic properties also protect your skin from the negative effects of stress and anxiety.
Tulsi
Known for its healing properties, tulsi can also help prevent wrinkles and other external signs of ageing. Besides helping with nutrition, it can also help brighten the skin. Tulasi has become a superfood for the skin due to its high content.
Aloe Vera
One of the most widely recognized Ayurvedic spices utilized in beauty care products is Aloe Vera. Aloe vera comes as a gel emitted by the aloe vera plant, which can be utilized straightforwardly on the skin. Treating dry skin, rashes, diseases, skin inflammation and allergies is frequently utilized.
Turmeric
Turmeric is known for its benefits. Its medicinal properties are beneficial in many ways, from health to healthy skin. Curcumin’s anti-ageing properties make your skin look younger. Therefore, consuming turmeric will not only improve your health but will also make your skin look better.
Nourishing Supplements for Skin by Planet Ayurveda
Planet Ayurveda, a renowned ayurvedic company offers a”Skin Care Pack” which is used to keep the skin lustrous and healthy. All these products are healthy and prepared using standardised extract of herbs without adding any preservatives, chemicals and additives. Let’s have a look!
Products List
- NEEM CAPSULES
- GLEAMING SKIN HAIR NAILS FORMULA
- GANDHAK RASAYAN
- MANJISHTHA CAPSULES
- NIRGUNDI OIL
- TEA TREE- ALOE VERA PREMIUM HANDMADE BATHING BAR.
Product Description
1. Neem Capsules
It is prepared using extract of Neem (Azadirachta indica). These capsules are effective in the treatment of all skin diseases such as eczema, psoriasis, ringworm and other skin diseases and non-infectious skin diseases. Neem has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antimicrobial, and detoxifying properties.
Dose: Take 1 capsule two times a day after meals with warm water.
2. Gleaming Skin Hair Nails Formula
It protects skin health and helps to treat conditions such as eczema and scabies. This is prepared using standardised extract of Chopchini (Smilax china) etc. It maintains the elasticity, smoothness and firmness of the skin. The durability of hair and nails will increase.
Dose: Take 1 Capsule twice a day after meals with warm water.
3. Gandhak Rasayan
It helps keep the skin moist and removes dead skin cells. Shuddha gandhak (purified sulphur) is used in this formulation. It has the feature of preventing dryness by absorbing moisture from the surrounding air into the skin. Acne, leprosy etc.
Dose: 2 tablets twice daily after meals with warm water.
4. Manjishtha Capsules
Manjishtha (Rubia cordifolia) is used in the preparation of capsules in standard form. It acts as a blood purifier, promotes early wound healing, corrects calcium deficiency, and detoxifies the body.
Dose: Take 1 capsule two times a day after meals with warm water.
5. Nirgundi Oil
Nirgundi (Vitex negundo) is the main herb of this oil. Some other herbs in a small proportion are also added to enhance their medicinal quality such as Haridra (Curcuma longa), and Manjishtha (Rubia cordifolia). It helps heal wounds, relieve pain, treat leprosy, skin inflammation, skin damage and more.
Dose: As directed by the physician.
6. Tea Tree- Aloe Vera Premium Handmade Bathing Bar
This plant also contains aloe vera. Both of these herbs help maintain healthy and hydrated skin. It prevents skin diseases and also helps them heal. Regular use of this soap prevents the skin from drying out, moisturises the skin and eliminates skin diseases.
Dose: As directed by the physician.
Tips for Skin Health
Skin health is determined by many factors. These include proper water balance (Kapha balance), proper functioning of the metabolic system that regulates all of the chemicals and hormones in the skin (Pitta balance), and proper functioning of blood and nutrients (Vata balance) to maintain blood and skin balance.
We must maintain the health of the skin as a whole by balancing the three vital forces. We can balance our energy by following the ahara and vihara (diet and lifestyle changes). This keeps our skin healthy.
- Drinking plenty of fresh water, green tea or herbal tea will help remove waste and toxins from the body. It also prevents constipation.
- Lack of sleep can cause dark circles and uneven skin.
- Walking for a few minutes improves blood circulation and removes toxins in the form of sweat.
- Fresh fruits and vegetables should be added to the diet.
- Do not smoke, drink alcohol, or use drugs, as they can damage the skin.
Contact Planet Ayurveda Support Team to provide you the costing / ordering and delivery information at – costing.planetayurveda@gmail.com or Call at 0172-521-4040 (India), +91-172-521-4040 (Outside India) or Whatsapp at (+91) 9915-593-604
Conclusion
The skin (Twacha) is one of the most important organs of the body and has some effects on human personality. Thus, skin disease (twak vikar) affects not only the body but also the psychological level. To know about the Twak vikriti, first, you should know about the Prakriti of Twacha (Physiology). You should know about the Rachnatmaka and Kriyatmaka aspects of skin in detail for the best diagnosis. It covers not only the outside but also the inside of the whole body.
