What is Vitiligo or Lecucoderma?
Lecucoderma, also known as vitiligo, loss of pigmentation, distressing skin condition, white patchy skin spots, koda (Marathi), leykoderma (Russian), dhabala (Bengali), safed dag / shweta kushta (Hindi), venkuttam (Tamil). The word literally means ‘ white skin’. There is a gradual loss of pigment melanin from the skin layers which results in white patches. These patches look ugly, especially in persons with dark complexions. The condition does not cause any organic harm. It, however, brings about great psychological tension to the patient who is more embarrassed than the victim of any pain or discomfort. The condition thus, besides being a medical problem, also becomes a social stigma. Further, many wrong beliefs are prevalent about the causes of vitiligo.
Root Causes
It is not caused by eating fish and drinking milk at the same time, as is generally believed because even vegetarians suffer from this disorder. Other food combinations such as pumpkin and milk, onion and milk as possible causes of vitiligo also have no basis. Lucoderma is not caused by any germs; nor is it due bad blood. It is neither infectious nor contagious. It cannot be transmitted from one person to another by physical contact. The main causes of leukoderma are excessive mental worry, chronic or acute gastric disorder, impaired hepatic function such as jaundice, worms or other parasites in the alimentary canal, ailments like typhoid which affect the gastro intestinal tract, defective perspirative mechanism and burn injuries. Often the hormone secreting glands are involved in this disorder. Heredity is also a causative factor and about 30 per cent of patients have a family history of the disorder.
Common Symptoms
Leukoderma, vitiligo, loss of pigmentation, white patchy skin, white spots. The problem usually starts with a small white spot and later on it develops into patches. These patches are pale in the beginning but become whiter and whiter as time passes due to loss of pigment. As spots enlarge, they merge into each other and, in course of time, form a very broad patch. In some cases, most of the skin of the body may be covered with Vitiligo. Leucoderma is a fairly common disorder and it affects one per cent or more of the world’s population. The incidence is a little higher in India and more common in women than men. The most affected areas are the hands, the neck, the back and the wrist in that order.
Vitiligo Home Remedies
8 Effective Ayurvedic vitiligo home remedies to treat white patchy skin spots naturally.
- Try some cluster seeds because these beans are very useful for leucoderma. You need to continue the remedy for 40 days so consider the quantity accordingly. Soak cluster seeds in ginger juice for 3 days, changing the ginger juice everyday. After 3 days take out seeds roughly rub into the palms to take out seed skin. Dry them in a shade. Grind it. Store in a clean jar. Take 1gm of powder everyday with 1 cup of milk. Continue for at least 40 days for good results. If possible apply powder + water paste on vitiligo.
- Levigate white ternatea flower plant roots with little water. Apply this paste on white patches everyday at least a month. Ternateas is also known as butterfly pea, blue pea, Asian pigeonwings and cordofan pea. Mostly available in purple color but for remedy you need white color flower plant.
- Red soil found near river bank or near mountains is very helpful for vitiligo. Contents of red soil helps to improve formation of melanin under skin. Mix ginger juice and red soil in same quantity. Apply this paste on vitiligo white patches once a day.
- Folk remedy. Take mustard seed powder and ghee in 1:8 proportion. Apply this paste on patches for few months. Ghee (home style clarified butter) should be very old and made with cow milk.
- Radish seeds are useful for vitiligo. Grind 30gms of radish seeds with sufficient amount of vinegar. Apply this paste on patches.
- Grind urad beans and apply paste on leukoderma patches.
- Take cluster seeds and tamarind seeds in equal quantity. Soak them in a water for 3-4 days. After 4 days peel seeds and dry them in a shade. Levigate seeds with water and apply paste on white patches. If this makes skin reddish or irritation stop immediately.
- Whole turmeric and mustard oil can combine for this remedy. Grind 500gms of whole turmeric and soak in 8 liters of water overnight. Next day morning boil this water for long time till water becomes 1 liter. Strain the water. Add 3 and 1/2 cup of mustard oil in it. Again boil this mixed liquid till it remains only oil. Strain and store in cool, dry place. Apply this oil everyday morning and evening for few months.
Tips to prevent vitiligo and loss of pigmentation
- Drink a cup of butter milk everyday with a pinch of salt.
- Include fresh butter (made with goat milk) in your diet.
- Use garlic in different forms in everyday meals.
FAQs.
Q. What is the fastest home remedy for vitiligo?
Unfortunately, there is no known “cure” for vitiligo, and treatments vary depending on the individual. However, some home remedies that may help reduce the appearance of vitiligo include:
- Regular exposure to sunlight: Sunlight can help stimulate the production of melanin and even out skin tone.
- Eating a healthy diet: Eating a diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals can help support skin health.
- Applying aloe vera: Aloe vera gel can help reduce inflammation and the appearance of white patches.
- Using topical steroids: Topical steroid creams may help reduce inflammation and lighten the affected skin.
Q. Can vitiligo be cured naturally?
Although there is no known cure for vitiligo, there are a number of treatments and home remedies that may help to reduce its appearance. Natural treatments may include exposure to sunlight, topical creams, herbs, nutrition, and supplements. However, it is important to note that results may vary from person to person and some treatments may not be suitable for all skin types.
Q. What is the main cause of leucoderma?
Leukoderma is a skin condition characterized by white patches of skin. The exact cause of leucoderma is unknown, but it is believed to be related to an autoimmune disorder, a genetic predisposition, or exposure to certain chemicals or drugs.
Q. What food is not good for vitiligo?
Foods high in sugar and processed foods are not recommended for people with vitiligo, as they can increase inflammation, which can worsen the condition. Also food high in saturated fats and trans fats, such as processed meats, fried foods, and packaged snacks and desserts, should also be avoided. Foods rich in antioxidants, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains, are recommended.
Q. How can I treat vitiligo in a month at home?
Unfortunately, there is no known cure for vitiligo, so it cannot be treated in a month. However, there are some home remedies you can try that may help reduce the appearance of vitiligo. These include applying creams/ointments containing corticosteroids (such as hydrocortisone) or vitamin D3, and exposing the affected area to UVB light. You should also eat a balanced diet with lots of antioxidants. Additionally, some studies have shown that herbal supplements such as ginkgo biloba and turmeric may help reduce the appearance of vitiligo. It’s important to note that these home remedies are not scientifically proven to be effective, so you should always discuss any treatment options you’re considering with your doctor.
Q. Can aloe vera gel cure vitiligo?
No, there is currently no cure for vitiligo, and there is no evidence to suggest that aloe vera gel can provide a cure. But few remedies claim that it is helpful. Here are steps how to use aloe vera for vitiligo, if you want to try out:
- Clean the affected area with mild soap and water.
- Extract the gel from an aloe vera leaf by cutting off a leaf and slicing it in half lengthwise.
- Rub the gel directly onto the affected area two to three times a day.
- Leave the gel on the skin for at least 30 minutes before washing it off.
- Repeat this process for several weeks to see improvements.
- If you do not see any improvements, consult your doctor for further treatment.
Q. Consuming milk after eating fish causes leukoderma. Myth or truth?
No, this is not true. Leukoderma is a skin condition that is caused by an autoimmune disorder or an injury to the skin. There is no evidence that consuming milk after eating fish can cause leukoderma.
Q. Is Leucoderma a genetic disease? Is it hereditary?
Leucoderma is not a genetic disease, and it is not hereditary. It is caused by either an autoimmune disorder or a fungal infection.
Q. How to use turmeric for vitiligo?
- Make a paste with turmeric powder and water and apply it directly to the affected areas of skin.
- Mix turmeric powder with honey and apply to the affected areas.
- Make a paste with turmeric powder and aloe vera gel and apply it to the affected areas.
- Consume turmeric supplements or add turmeric to your daily diet.
- Mix turmeric powder with milk or yogurt and apply it to the affected areas.
- Try mixing powder with olive oil and apply it to the affected areas.
Q. Is Vitiligo contagious?
No, vitiligo is not contagious. Vitiligo is a condition in which the skin loses its natural pigmentation and develops white patches. It is caused by the destruction of melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color.
Q. Is leucoderma infectious?
No, leucoderma is not an infectious disease. It is a skin condition caused by a lack of melanin in the skin, and is not contagious.
Q. What causes vitiligo?
The exact cause of vitiligo is unknown, but it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys certain cells within the body (melanocytes) which are responsible for producing the pigment that gives skin its color. Other possible causes include genetic predisposition, sunburn, stress, and exposure to certain industrial chemicals.
Q. What is Vitiligo and how does it occur?
Vitiligo is a skin condition in which patches of skin lose their pigment, resulting in irregular pale or white patches on the skin. It is caused by the loss of pigment-producing cells called melanocytes, which can occur due to a number of different factors, such as an autoimmune disorder, genetic predisposition, or exposure to certain chemicals.
Q. What are the symptoms of 1st stage vitiligo?
The most common symptoms of vitiligo in the first stage include:
- White patches of skin on different parts of the body, such as on the face, hands, feet, or arms.
- Loss of color in the hair on the scalp, eyelashes, eyebrows, or beard.
- Premature whitening or graying of the hair.
- Loss of color in the retina, which can cause vision problems.
- Itching in the affected areas.
Q. Can vitiligo patients eat egg?
Yes, vitiligo patients can eat egg. Eating a balanced diet is important for maintaining overall health, and eggs are a nutritious source of protein that can be enjoyed by vitiligo patients.
Q. How to stop vitiligo from spreading naturally?
- Avoid exposure to the sun: Sun exposure can cause vitiligo to spread, particularly in people with fair skin. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and protective clothing when outdoors.
- Get plenty of antioxidants: Antioxidants can help reduce the oxidative stress thought to contribute to the spread of vitiligo. Foods rich in antioxidants include berries, nuts, and dark green leafy vegetables.
- Try topical treatments: Topical treatments, such as corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, and vitamin D analogs, may help stop vitiligo from spreading.
- Eat a healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet helps keep your immune system healthy and may help prevent the spread of vitiligo.
- Try phototherapy: Phototherapy – or light therapy – may help stop vitiligo from spreading. It involves exposing your skin to ultraviolet light.
Q. Is there any permanent solution for leucoderma?
There is no permanently curable solution for leucoderma. However, treatment options are available to help reduce the appearance of white patches and improve skin tone. Some of these treatments include topical steroids, calcipotriene, topical immunomodulators, phototherapy, and other topical medications. It is important to talk with a doctor about the best treatment for your specific condition.
Q. What is the best vitiligo treatment in world?
The best vitiligo treatment in the world is a combination of topical corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, and phototherapy. Topical corticosteroids reduce inflammation and decrease the spread of vitiligo. Calcineurin inhibitors, such as tacrolimus and pimecrolimus, help repigment the white patches. Phototherapy, such as narrowband ultraviolet B (UVB) light, is an effective treatment for vitiligo, as it stimulates the production of melanin in the skin.
Q. If mother has acquired leucoderma so there is how much chances to get leucoderma in first child?
The chances of a first child inheriting leucoderma from a mother are very low. The exact risk of a child inheriting leucoderma from a parent is unknown. Leucoderma is not caused by a gene mutation, so it is not inherited in the traditional way.
Q. What are some Ayurveda medicines that can be used to cure leucoderma or vitiligo in an early stage?
- Mahamanjishthadi Kashayam: This is an ayurvedic herbal decoction made from a combination of herbs like Manjistha, Amalaki, Sariva, Vacha, and Guduchi. It is known to be effective for treating leucoderma or vitiligo.
- Giloy Satva: This is an ayurvedic herbal powder made from Giloy (Tinospora Cordifolia). It is known to be effective in treating leucoderma or vitiligo.
- Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is known to be beneficial in treating leucoderma or vitiligo. Massaging the affected area with warm coconut oil is known to be effective in reducing symptoms.
- Amalaki Rasayana: This is an ayurvedic herbal tonic made from Amalaki (Emblica officinalis). It is known to be effective in treating leucoderma or vitiligo.
- Neem: Neem (Azadirachta indica) is known to be beneficial in treating leucoderma or vitiligo. Applying neem oil on the affected areas is known to be effective in treating the condition.
Effective Home Remedies for Leucoderma or Vitiligo
- Turmeric: Turmeric is an excellent home remedy for leucoderma. Make a paste of turmeric powder and mustard oil, and apply it on the affected areas.
- Indian Gooseberry: Extract the juice of Indian gooseberry (amla) and mix it with lemon juice. Apply it on the affected area and leave it for 10 minutes. Wash it off with warm water.
- Cabbage Leaves: Grind some fresh cabbage leaves and apply the paste on the affected area. This remedy helps in restoring the normal color of the skin.
- Basil Leaves: Take some fresh basil leaves and grind them to make a paste. Apply it on the affected area and leave it for 15 minutes. Wash off with warm water.
- Coconut Water: Coconut water is also very effective in treating leukoderma. Apply it on the affected area and let it dry.
- Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is a very effective home remedy for leukoderma. Extract the gel from the aloe vera leaf and apply it on the affected area. Leave it for 20 minutes and wash it off with warm water.