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Understanding Psoriasis
By: Brigitte Synesael
Those who suffer from Psoriasis often also experience frustration,
and often embarrassment. This condition is typically not a pretty sight.
During normal skin production, skin cells begin at the bottom
layer of skin. As they mature, they rise up from the bottom
layer to the top layer (called the epidermis). In a healthy
body this process should take about 28 days.
About 2% of the population in both the United States and Europe
battle with a skin disease called Psoriasis. It occurs when the
skin cells do not produce normally. Typically psoriasis is
recognized by large patches of red, inflamed skin having a
silvery, scaly surface. Although this condition is not
contagious, heredity is a significant factor.
This is a heartbreaking disease for two reasons; it can cause a
great deal of constant physical discomfort, and with the
affected areas being so apparent it is often socially
embarrassing as well.
There are three main types of psoriasis:
Discoid or "Plaque" Psoriasis - This is the most common form.
Patches appear on the trunk and limbs, particularly the elbows
and knees, and on the scalp. Usually the nails also become
pitted or thickened. Nails may even separate from the nail bed.
Guttate Psoriasis - This type occurs most frequently in children.
Numerous small patches develop rapidly covering a wide
area of skin. Often this will occur after a soar throat.
Pustular Psoriasis - Small pistules form in this type and can
appear anywhere on the body or be confined to specific areas,
like the palms or soles of the feet.
The exact cause of psoriasis in not known. However there are
a number of deficiencies that are believed to be at the source
of the condition. Frequently, emotional stress may be a
contributing factor. Skin trauma, surgery and physical illness
may encourage a psoriasis attack. Deficiencies in the liver and
the digestive system can also be at the root of the problem.
Mild cases of psoriasis can be helped by phototherapy, exposure
to ultraviolet lamps. Typically doctors will prescribe
emollient creams. More serious attacks are often treated with
ointments containing coal tar or dithranol. Other medical
treatments include Methotrexate and corticosteroid drugs.
Extreme caution should be used when interacting with
Methotrexate or Rheumatrex. This is a highly toxic drug and
should only be prescribed by a physician familiar with its
properties. It can have devastating side effects if not used
properly.
For a more natural approach, people suffering from psoriasis
are encouraged to avoid alcohol, fats from meat and dairy
products, white sugar, white flour, and citrus fruits. A
stronger diet of raw foods, sesame seeds and fish (tuna,
salmon, and sardines) and increasing fiber in the diet will
help keep this condition under control.
From a vitamin perspective you'll find that increasing the
following vitamins will help your struggle with psoriasis.
Vitamins A, B Complex, and Zinc are necessary for healthy
skin, hair and nails. Vitamin D helps to heal the skin. Lecithin
emulsifies fats and protects cells. Switching to Sunflower oil
which contains lecithin may be helpful.
Herbs can be tremendously helpful in addressing this condition
and typically don't carry the side effects that often accompany
traditional treatments. There are several herbs that can be
helpful. Availability may determine your selection. Dandelion
strengthens the liver which is often damaged in skin diseases
like this. Poultices can be made from Chaparral, Dandelion and
Yellow Dock. Lavender fights inflammation and can soothe and
help heal irritated skin. It can be mixed with Olive Oil and
applied externally. Add 2 teaspoons of Ginger to bath water.
Milk Thistle protects the liver which is necessary to keep the
blood clean. It been recommended to take 300 milligrams 3
times daily. Red Clover is an excellent blood cleanser and can
be very instrumental in resolving this condition. Golden Seal
is another herb that can be of benefit when dealing with
psoriasis.
It is important to note that you should ALWAYS consult a
qualified health care professional when dealing with a serious
health condition. This can be your Herbalist, Naturopath,
Nutritionist, Homeopath, family doctor, or any other certified
practitioner you trust. They can advise you about appropriate
quantities for your specific condition, or counsel you about
possible conflicts with other medication you may be on.
References:
The Complete Home Health Advisor - Rita Elkins Lendon H Smith M.D.
Prescription For Nutritional Healing - James F. Balch M.D. & Phyllis A. Balch C.N.C.
The Canadian Medical Association Reference: Peter Morgan M.D.
Bio:
Brigitte Synesael founded Your Life-Your Choice in 1997, and is now recognized as an authority on Alternative Medicine Information. Her associations with governing agencies and certified practitioners ensure well researched, quality information. Her free newsletter, found
at http://www.Life-Choices.com is an excellent resource for various types of treatments.
Her latest release "You've Got Nothing To Lose But POUNDS!" was inspired by her outrage at society taking advantage of a frustrated, overweight population. It is always assumed that overweight people eat too much, and in many cases, that is simply NOT TRUE. This well researched book gives you more than 10 factors in your life that could be responsible for your weight problem besides overeating. This book is available
at http://www.diets-dont-work.com
Brigitte Synesael may be contacted at
yourlife@life-choices.com
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