Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin disorder. The red, inflamed patches of skin are covered with silvery scales and can appear almost anywhere on the body. Psoriasis may be genetic, but it must be triggered by other conditions like stress, tension, illness, infection, certain types of medication and even sunburn. Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a rhizome, or fleshy root, that has been used traditionally in Asia as both a food and medicine. According to Dr. John Bright, the curcumin in turmeric is anti-inflammatory and effective in treating chronic disorders like psoriasis that have inflammation as a root symptom.
Step 1
Visit a health food store or natural food co-operative that carries high-quality herbal medicines. These stores usually have knowledgeable people who can help you select the best form of turmeric for your condition.
Step 2
Purchase turmeric as a tincture or tablets. If you're buying the tincture decide whether you want a water or alcohol base. If using the tablets, be sure to buy a standardized turmeric extract that contains 95 percent curcuminoides. This percentage should be clearly marked on the label. The tablets should be 450 mg each.
Step 3
Take the proper dose. If using a tincture, take 30 to 40 drops in 1 oz. of water three times per day. If using the tablets, take one tablet three times per day, or follow the instructions on the container.
Step 4
Monitor the progress of the psoriasis patches. The redness and scaling should gradually diminish within three or four weeks. Turmeric may not cure your psoriasis, but it should greatly relieve it.
Tips and Warnings
- Turmeric is not very bioavailable, meaning that it does not get absorbed easily by your body. The tincture probably contains alcohol, which may help with absorption. The tablets can be crushed and mixed with a fatty food, like yogurt or a teaspoon of oil to help with absorption. If your psoriasis is limited to a small area you can buy turmeric ointment and apply it directly to the effected areas. Handling turmeric can stain your hands---turmeric is the spice that gives Indian curry its yellow color. Wear plastic gloves to avoid getting the color on your hands.
- Do not ingest turmeric essential oil or tincture, or apply it to your skin, without diluting it first. Ask your doctor if turmeric is safe for children or to use while pregnant. Do not take turmeric if you have diabetes, as it has been shown to lower blood sugar in animal studies. Do not take turmeric if you are taking medication to lower blood pressure, as it may intensify those drugs. Ask your doctor if it is safe to take turmeric if you are taking medication to control your cholesterol, as turmeric affects lipoprotein levels. Turmeric may cause ulcers if taken in large doses for long periods of time. Turmeric may enhance anticoagulant medicines like warfarin, heparin, and aspirin. It may also intensify the effects of other herbal medicines that can cause bleeding, like Ginkgo biloba.
Things You'll Need
- Turmeric in tincture or tablet form
- Water
References
- "Advances in experimental medicine and biology"; Curcumin and autoimmune disease; John J. Bright; 2007
