What is Sebaceous Cyst and its Treatment with Ayurveda?
In this shloka definition of “Granthi” is explained.
The vitiated Vata dosha mainly affects the mamsa, rakta, kapha and medadhatu which forms circular, high snagged edema and is termed as granthi.
(Reference: Sushrutasamhita (Nidansthan): Chapter-11 and shloka-3)
As Per the Ayurveda Aspect
The Vata, Pitta and Kapha dosha contaminate the mamsa (muscles) and rakt (blood), sira (veins), meda (fat) which cause an elevated and round swelling. This swelling is called as granthi. Granthi is of various types: Vataja- caused by vitiated Vata dosha, pittaja- caused by vitiated pitta dosha, kaphaja-can be caused by vitiated Kapha dosha, medaja- caused by vitiated meda (fat), sirajagranthi- swelling caused in the sira (veins)
What is a Sebaceous Cyst?
A cyst is a slow-growing lump that can move easily under the skin and a sebaceous cyst refers to an epidermoid cyst that originates from the skin and comes from the hair follicles.
These are found under the skin except in the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. There will be foul smell from the overlying skin. These are non- cancerous cysts mostly found on the neck, face or torso. These grow slowly and are non-threatening. But these may cause uncomfortable if remains unchecked.
What are the Causes of Sebaceous Cyst?
Sebaceous cyst occurs in the sebaceous glands that produce an oil called sebum which is responsible for coating the hair and the skin.
Cysts develop when the duct or gland becomes blocked. It usually occurs due to any trauma. Trauma can be a surgical wound or any other skin related condition such as acne.
Other causes of the sebaceous cyst are:
- Deformed duct
- Cell damage during a surgery
- Various genetic conditions, such as basal cell nevus syndrome or Gardner’s syndrome.
What are the Symptoms of a Sebaceous Cyst?
Cysts are movable, dome-shaped with a smooth surface that may vary in size from few millimeters to several centimeters.
These cysts are small and are typically not painful. But if the cysts are large, then they can be uncomfortable and painful. These are found on the neck and face and may cause pain and pressure.
Areas on which the sebaceous cysts are found:
- Face
- Neck
- Scalp
- Back
If it is cancerous then it has the following characteristics:
- The diameter of the cyst is larger than 5 cm
- Fast rate of recurrence after its removal
- Signs of infection like pain, pus discharge, redness, etc.
Diagnosis of sebaceous cyst:
It is often diagnosed by the doctor after a simple examination. Some common tests are:
- CT scan
- Ultrasound
- Punch biopsy
Natural Treatment for Sebaceous Cyst
Planet Ayurveda is offering a natural treatment for treating sebaceous cyst. These formulations work synergistically and help in treating symptoms associated with it. The herbs used in these formulations are natural, pure and strictly follows the principles of Ayurveda. These formulations are free from additives, preservatives, chemicals, and no colors are added. These are safe to use and have no side effects.
This pack contains:
- Kanchnaar Guggul
Kanchnaarguggul is a classical Ayurvedic formulation prepared from the bark of kanchnar herb. This formulation has been used in Ayurveda since many times for treating the tumors, nodules of the neck, wound healing, extra growth, and other related disorders. It contains other effective herbs like pippali, haritaki, bibhitaki, Amalaki, Varuna, ginger, etc. Triphala present in this formulation detoxifies the whole system.
Dosage: 2 tablets twice daily with plain water after meals.
- Navkarshik Churna
Navkarshikchurna is an Ayurvedic formulation which increases the metabolism and eliminates the toxins from the body. The ingredients used in this churna are haritaki, neem, bibhtaki, katuki, daruhaldi, Vacha. It is considered as anti-inflammatory thus very effective in treating sebaceous cyst.
Dosage: 2 capsules twice daily after meals.
- Arogyavardhini Vati
ArogyavardhiniVati is a classical Ayurvedic formulation used in Ayurveda for treating skin related disorder such as a sebaceous cyst. It eliminates the toxins from the body and balances all the three doshas in the body. The ingredients used in it are shudhgandhak, shudhparad, lauhbhasam, vibhitaki, Amalaki, tamrbhasma, shuddhshilajit, chitrakmoola, and katuki. These tablets improve the immunity of the body.
Dosage: 2 tablets twice daily with plain water after meals.
- Erand Oil
Erand is also called as the castor plant. It has been used in Ayurveda in treating various diseases such as piles, enlarged spleen, and liver, tumors, etc. Its external application is used to relieve various skin related disorders and reduces the size of external growth.
Usage: Apply this oil on the affected areas.
Nutrition and diet you Should Follow
Foods to be Taken
- A strong immune system helps the body to heal sebaceous cysts.
- Eat anti-oxidant rich diet: Fruits such as citrus fruits, berries, green leafy vegetables, and whole grains. This will improve immunity and eliminates the toxins from the body.
- Increase the water intake to flush out the harmful toxins.
- Healthy oils can be taken to promote healthy skin and to reduce the stagnation of sebum in the hair shafts such as nuts, fish, avocado, and flaxseed oil.
Foods to be Avoided
Milk and milk products, red meat, sugary, fatty foods, and saturated fats.
Some Do’s and Don’ts:
- Don’t touch, scratch, puncture, squeeze or drain the cyst.
- Put a warm cloth on that area that will help to drain and heal the cyst naturally
- Keep that area clean and wash this area regularly to avoid the infection.
- Use of turmeric is also very effective as it can break the cyst and bring the affected area into a normal state. Boil half teaspoon of turmeric with one cup of water and allow it to cool for sometimes and then drink it. Do this remedy for 10 to 12 days regularly or you can also make a paste of turmeric and water and apply it on the cyst.
Some Preventive Tips
- Drink plenty of water as it eliminates the toxins from the body.
- Keep the affected area clean
- Wash your hands properly
- Always use a clean and washed cloth to clean the cyst
- Use hygienic blades and wax for cleaning the hair on the affected skin
- If the cyst pops on its own, wash it properly with the running water and clean it with antibacterial soap.
- Avoid squeezing or scratching of the cyst to bring out the pus as it passes the infection to the other body parts as it may also lead to bleeding.
- Avoid direct sun exposure.
