Here’s how you can improve symptoms of vitiligo

Vitiligo is a condition that affects millions worldwide, yet it remains widely misunderstood. Characterised by white patches on the skin, it is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system mistakenly attacks melanin producing cells. While conventional treatments like steroids and immunosuppressants can provide temporary relief, addressing the root cause — especially gut health — can offer long-term healing.

Vitiligo occurs when melanocytes, the cells responsible for skin pigment, are destroyed by the immune system. This leads to white patches on different parts of the body, which may spread over time. While it isn’t painful or contagious, it can impact confidence and emotional well-being. The underlying cause is often linked to autoimmunity, where the immune system mistakenly attacks its own cells. But what triggers this attack:

Stress, the silent trigger: Chronic stress inflames the gut, weakens its lining, and allows harmful molecules to leak into the bloodstream — a condition known as leaky gut. The immune system then reacts aggressively, leading to vitiligo flare-ups. That’s why managing stress in a better way through yoga, meditation, breathing exercises, and hobbies can help to divert the mind, control cortisol levels, reduce inflammation and slow the progression of vitiligo.

Food sensitivities: Certain foods can trigger or worsen vitiligo, as they may cause inflammation or disturb gut health. Common triggers include caffeine, gluten, dairy, sugar, etc. However, food triggers vary from person to person, so it’s essential to track and identify individual sensitivities according to bio-individuality.

These are just two, but there can be several reasons or causes for this to get triggered, but it always starts with a compromised gut. The gut is often referred to as the “second brain” because of its critical role in immunity. When the gut lining becomes damaged (leaky gut), large molecules enter the bloodstream, triggering an autoimmune response. This process, called molecular mimicry, can lead the immune system to attack vital organs like the thyroid (leading to Hashimoto’s), joints (arthritis), or skin (vitiligo, eczema, psoriasis). Strengthening gut health is crucial for managing the autoimmune condition to keep it in remission where the immune system doesn’t attack melanocytes.

While healing internally is crucial, certain natural applications can help reduce vitiligo symptoms. What has worked for my clients is mixing equal quantities of turmeric powder with cold-pressed mustard oil and applying it to affected areas for 15-20 days continuously. Keep it for half an hour and then wash it off, or if you are comfortable, then let it stay on the body overnight. Sticking to a well-balanced meal with good-quality protein always work sand instead of removing multiple foods at once, eliminate one potential trigger (e.g., dairy) for a week, observe any changes, then reintroduce it and eliminate another (e.g., gluten). This process helps pinpoint specific triggers without overwhelming the body.