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Psoriasis is a skin
condition whereby areas are covered in pink or red coloured patches with white scales.
What to look for
deep pink, raised patches
of skin with white scales appearing anywhere on the body except the face.
pitting and thickening of
the fingernails and toenails.
The skin cells multiply
much faster than normal, healthy cells and the overproduction of these cells is what
causes the raised patches of skin.
Psoriasis tends to run in
families. It is not contagious and is common among people with fair skin.
Outbreaks are triggered by
the immune system and can affect other parts of the body, particularly the joints. This
condition is usually not dangerous although it may be stressful and embarrassing and with
appropriate treatment, symptoms generally subside within weeks.
Causes
A variety of factors,
ranging from emotional stress to infection, can accelerate an episode of psoriasis.
Excess
alcohol consumption, incorrect diets, injured skin, obesity, and certain drugs can
aggravate psoriasis.
Traditional Treatment
This condition is not
curable but it usually responds well to treatments. A standard treatment recommended by
many doctors is to soak in a warm bath for 10 to 15 minutes, then immediately apply a
topical ointment such as petroleum jelly, which helps your skin retain moisture. Your
doctor may recommend another medication which is a little stronger.
Treatment with capsaicin
may also be effective. Because capsaicin can burn and severely damage the skin if used
incorrectly, try this only under a doctor's supervision.
Alternative/Natural
Treatments
If conventional treatments
for psoriasis are not working for you, ask your doctor about the potential benefits of the
following alternatives.
Aromatherapy -
Mix
together 4 drops of essential oil of
cedarwood
and 2 drops of
juniper or lemon in 1 tbsp almond , jojoba or olive oil. Apply
the mixture to your scalp and leave it on overnight under a shower cap. Shampoo and rinse
thoroughly in the morning.
Lavender is also
recommended if the above oils are unsuitable. Mix
together 4 drops of essential oil of
cedarwood
and 2 drops of
juniper or lemon in 1 tbsp almond , jojoba or olive oil. Apply
the mixture to your scalp and leave it on overnight under a shower cap. Shampoo and rinse
thoroughly in the morning.
Lavender is also
recommended if the above oils are unsuitable.
Repeat three times a week
until the symptoms clear. Since some people are sensitive to essential oils, place a drop
on your skin for 30 minutes to be sure you have no adverse reactions.
Herbal Therapies - Burdock (Arctium lappa) root, dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) root, and Oregon grape
(Mahonia aquifolium) are said to help reduce symptoms of psoriasis. Burdock (Arctium lappa) root, dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) root, and Oregon grape
(Mahonia aquifolium) are said to help reduce symptoms of psoriasis.
Evening primrose oil may soothe itching
associated with psoriasis.
Mix tinctures of burdock,
skullcap,
sourdock, and cleavers in equal parts;
A rinse made of dried rosemary and
sage offers
another alternative to tar-based shampoos.
Homoeopathy -
Don't
try to choose homoeopathic remedies on your own to treat a chronic, systemic condition
such as psoriasis. Don't
try to choose homoeopathic remedies on your own to treat a chronic, systemic condition
such as psoriasis.
Lifestyle -
The skin, the largest organ in the body, often mirrors turmoil within, so it's not
surprising that many psoriasis patients have a history of high anxiety, low self-esteem,
and
stress-related problems.
Many techniques help
psoriasis patients by addressing the psychological roots and consequences of the disease.
In particular, hypnotherapy, any of a number of relaxation techniques and psychotherapy
may be effective.
Try to relax and take part
in activities which you enjoy and that make you feel good. Try to avoid high levels of
stress.
Dietary Considerations
Fish oil is usually
extremely beneficial to sufferers - try a fish-oil capsule containing EPA four times a
day.
Vitamin A, Vitamin D,
Vitamin Customer and E, Calcium, Magnesium, Lecithin, linseed oil, Kelp, Garlic and
Evening Primrose Oil.
Be careful with the doses
and always take supplements under Professional supervision.
Vitamin B complex may
promote healthy skin and rubbing concentrated vitamin E ointment into your scalp two or
three times a week can be helpful.
Some research has suggested
that eating too much citrus fruit can aggravate psoriasis, and that psoriasis patients,
like eczema patients, cannot metabolise fatty acids. To help prevent flare ups, adopt a
diet high in fish and raw vegetables, and low in fatty meats and acidic fruits.
Press Here to Go To Our Vitamins
Section to find out more
about these and other vitamins herbs and minerals.
Personal Care
For scalp psoriasis, wash
your hair with a coal-tar shampoo or with a mixture of
cedarwood and juniper or
lemon
oils.
Expose areas of inflamed
skin to the morning or afternoon sun but be extremely careful to not stay out too long and
put sunscreen on all the other parts of your body.
Regular exercise will
help your entire system.
When to seek further
professional advice
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