Ayurvedic Remedies for Xanthoma: Fatty Growth Under the Skin

Xanthoma is a common condition wherein fatty deposits develop underneath the skin. Research shows that xanthelasma is most common in people aged between 40 to 60 years. Though they are usually harmless, they can severely impact one’s looks, confidence, and overall personality. So, in this blog, I bring you easy ayurvedic home remedies for xanthoma that can naturally reduce these growths.

Usually harmless, these deposits are commonly spotted around the eyes, joints, hands, or feet. They can vary in size, from the size of a pinhead to a grape. Xanthomas don’t cause any pain, but they can be tender and itchy. They may grow in clusters in the same area or can grow as several individual developments on different parts of the body. 

It’s very important to consult a doctor on spotting these lesions. Because sometimes they can be a symptom of some underlying health condition. Treatment options are varied, from surgery to home remedies. In mild cases, simple Ayurvedic home remedies have been proven effective in reducing the appearance of xanthoma.

What causes xanthoma?

Xanthoma can be caused by high levels of blood lipids or fats in the body. However, sometimes, Xanthoma can also be a symptom of an underlying medical condition like –  

• high blood cholesterol 
• diabetes
• hypothyroidism
• primary biliary cirrhosis
• nephrotic syndrome
• hematologic disease
• cancer

Xanthoma isn’t dangerous in itself, but these are underlying conditions. And that’s why it’s important to consult a doctor when you start spotting these developments. Conversely, people having these medical conditions are at an increased risk of developing xanthoma. Also, the best way to treat and prevent xanthomas is to get these health problems under control.

Ayurvedic HOME Remedies for Xanthoma

Xanthoma is not a new thing; it has been in existence since time immemorial. And back in time, our Ayurvedic Vaidyas used several natural tricks to treat these lesions naturally. They also focused on treating the underlying health condition causing these fatty deposits. 

Check out these Ayurvedic home remedies for Xanthoma – 

1. Castor Oil

The thick sticky oil is an excellent home remedy for xanthoma. When you apply castor oil to the bumpy lesions, it gets absorbed quickly and helps shrink these unwanted deposits. The active ingredient in the oil is ricinoleic acid which has amazing benefits for the skin.

How to use castor oil for xanthoma?

• Soak a ball of cotton wool in castor oil.
• Squeeze gently and apply it to the skin patches.
• Keep your eyes closed if your lesions are close to the eye area.
• Massage the oil for a few minutes and leave it to dry overnight.
• You can also wrap the cotton pad with a bandage to allow maximum absorption. 
• The next morning, remove the bandage and wash the skin with warm water.
• You can repeat this daily for remarkable progress.

Also Read: Castor Oil for Thick eyelashes

2. Garlic

The magical white cloves are a great remedy for xanthoma. Research shows that garlic can lower the levels of cholesterol. Cholesterol is responsible for the appearance of these bumps in the upper eyelid. 

Garlic is rich in sulfur and enzymes that can help in flattening the cholesterol deposits. However, garlic can cause temporary burning and it’s not suitable for people with sensitive skin. You can also blend the castor oil with coconut oil to relieve discomfort.

How to use garlic in xanthoma?

• Peel a few garlic cloves and wash them well.
• Chop the garlic and crush it to make a paste.
• Apply the garlic paste on the affected skin.
• Massage your skin very gently to avoid a burning sensation.
• Cover the area with gauze and leave it for 20 minutes.
• Rinse it off using warm water.
• Repeat this once daily until the bumps start to shrink.

Caution!

• Do not leave the garlic remedy on the skin for a prolonged period. It can cause a burning sensation.
• People with sensitive skin should avoid this.
• Avoid touching your eyes as that can cause a burn.

3. Fenugreek seeds

Methi or fenugreek seeds are another excellent home remedy for xanthoma. These seeds are blessed with healing properties that can help in reducing the size of these fatty deposits. 

How to use fenugreek seeds for xanthoma?

• Soak fenugreek seeds in water and leave them overnight.
• The next morning use this water to massage the affected part.
• Do this gently to avoid hurting your skin.
• This will help in shrinking the cholesterol-laden skin patches.

Also Read: Methi seed water for diabetes

4. Onions

This kitchen staple is an excellent remedy for xanthoma. Onions too are rich in sulfur which aids in preventing bad cholesterol. Another thing about onion is that it’s acidic in nature. The acidity rejuvenates the skin and helps in flattening the raised deposits.

How to use onion in xanthoma?

• Peel and clean the onion and cut it into small pieces.
• Add a pinch of salt to the onions. 
• Put the onion pieces in a blender and extract the juice.
• Collect this juice in a clean bowl and soak a cotton ball for a few minutes.
• Dab the cotton ball on the affected skin to apply the onion juice. 
• Massage the juice for a few minutes and leave it overnight.
• Rinse the skin with warm water the next morning.
• Repeat it daily until you notice improvement. 

Caution!

Practice caution to prevent the onion juice from entering the eyes.

5. Banana Peels

One of the simplest home remedies for xanthoma is to use fresh banana peels. Banana peel is very beneficial for your skin. The peels are packed with potent antioxidants that help break down the lumpy deposits of cholesterol. It also helps the skin recover without scarring. This simple, safe home remedy is also very convenient and cost-effective.

How to use banana peels on your skin?

• Eat a banana and take the peel out.
• Clean the peel and apply the inner part of the peel to the cholesterol lumps.
• Massage it for a few minutes.
• To get the best benefits, put the peel on the affected skin and stick it with a bandage.
• Leave it overnight undisturbed.
• Remove the bandage the next morning and rinse the skin with warm water.
• Repeat this remedy regularly to shrink the fatty deposits.

Xanthoma Diet

Apart from following these home remedies, it is very important to follow a healthy diet. A healthy diet helps the body treat xanthoma internally and correct the underlying conditions. Avoid processed foods, sugar, and fried foods. And consume plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, grains, herbal tea, and adequate water.

Here are a few items that you must add to your diet to combat the underlying health conditions causing xanthoma.

• Garlic – Eating raw garlic on an empty stomach is the best remedy to control cholesterol and many other disorders!
• Fenugreek – Drink a glass of fenugreek water on an empty stomach to manage your cholesterol and diabetes.
• Onion –  Increasing the intake of raw onion can help keep cholesterol levels in check.
• Citrus Fruits – Increasing the daily intake of citrus fruits can help in lowering the amount of LDL naturally. 
• Niacin – If xanthoma is caused by elevated cholesterol then niacin can help. Niacin causes the blood vessels to dilate and improves blood circulation.
• Lecithin – This compound helps the body break down fat. You can add it to your meals, smoothie or sprinkle it on your meals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are xanthomas, and what causes them?

Xanthomas are fatty deposits that accumulate under the skin. They are often associated with underlying health conditions like high cholesterol, diabetes, or liver diseases. These deposits result from the build-up of cholesterol or triglycerides in the affected areas.

Can home remedies really help with xanthomas?

Yes, home remedies can play a significant role in managing xanthomas. While they may not completely eliminate the bumps, they can help reduce their size, alleviate symptoms, and promote overall skin health.

Is it possible to shrink xanthomas naturally?

Absolutely! Several natural remedies can help shrink xanthomas. These remedies focus on reducing cholesterol levels, improving circulation, and promoting healthy skin. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and guidance.

Can dietary changes help with xanthoma management?

Yes, making dietary changes can have a positive impact on xanthomas. Incorporating foods low in saturated fats and cholesterol, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, can help manage cholesterol levels and potentially reduce xanthoma size.

Are there specific foods that can benefit xanthoma management?

Yes, certain foods have shown potential benefits for xanthoma management. Garlic, turmeric, ginger, and foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (like fatty fish) have anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce cholesterol levels, which may contribute to shrinking xanthomas.

Can topical applications help with xanthoma reduction?

Topical applications can aid in managing xanthomas by promoting skin health and reducing inflammation. Applying natural ingredients like aloe vera gel, apple cider vinegar, or tea tree oil to the affected areas may help soothe the skin and potentially minimize the appearance of xanthomas.

Is regular exercise beneficial for xanthoma management?

Yes, regular exercise can be beneficial for xanthoma management. Engaging in physical activity helps improve circulation, reduce cholesterol levels, and promote overall health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.

Are there any Ayurvedic remedies for xanthomas?

Ayurvedic remedies may vary depending on an individual’s symptoms and constitution. Consulting with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner can help determine the most suitable remedies for managing xanthomas.

Can lifestyle changes support xanthoma reduction?

Absolutely! Lifestyle changes can contribute to xanthoma reduction. In addition to dietary modifications and exercise, quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing underlying health conditions like diabetes or high cholesterol can significantly improve xanthoma management.

When should I seek medical attention for xanthomas?

While home remedies can help manage xanthomas, it’s important to seek medical attention if the bumps are causing significant discomfort, rapidly increasing in size, or associated with other concerning symptoms. A healthcare professional can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Final takeaway!

Xanthoma is a common skin condition that makes an appearance in people over their 40s or 50s. But it can also occur in younger people. As I already said, Xanthoma is not dangerous, but it impacts one’s look and personality and that’s why most people look out for a cure.

So, if you are suffering from the mental agony of Xanthoma then try these remedies in the initial stage. They are very effective in preventing and treating new xanthomas. And don’t forget to follow the dietary guidelines.

Do write to me if you are dealing with any skin issues and want to know more about natural remedies for skin problems! I would be happy to help 😊