Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition affecting as many as 7.5 million Americans. It is characterized by red or brown patches of flaky skin. In people with psoriasis, T cells, which normally fight off bacteria and viruses, attack healthy cells. triggering an immune response in which the body creates excess skin cells. This causes the excessive build up of skin cells on the outer layer. While there are many medications and prescription ointments that can be used to treat psoriasis, many holistic options are also available to complement this treatment.
Step 1
Avoid lifestyle triggers. Stress, cold conditions, smoking and alcohol consumption are among the things that can trigger outbreaks. Consider massage and meditation to combat stress.
Step 2
Eliminate foods that trigger outbreaks. Citrus fruits, fried foods, saturated fats, sugar and processed foods can all exacerbate psoriasis problems. Foods that are high in arachidonic acid, such as eggs and beef, should also be avoided. The hormones that contribute to inflammation are manufactured from arachidonic acid. Keep a food diary, noting any foods that were consumed prior to an outbreak. Eliminate any foods that appear to continually cause problems.
Step 3
Get tested for food allergies and celiac disease. Both of these can cause psoriasis. The elimination of food allergens or gluten from the diet may be necessary based on these test results.
Step 4
Expose your skin to the sun for 15 to 20 minutes a day. Brief periods of exposure to UV light can kill T cells in the skin.
Step 5
Take baths in lukewarm water with yarrow, lavender or Epsom salts. This can help soothe the skin and remove excess cells. Avoid harsh soaps and extremely hot water, which can aggravate psoriasis.
Step 6
Try aloe vera gel or other herbal salves. Herbs that may be beneficial in topical form are licorice, marshmallow and chamomile.
Step 7
Increase your intake of fish or fish oil supplements. Fish oil may reduce inflammation that can accompany psoriasis outbreaks.
Step 8
Supplement with Vitamin A and Vitamin D, both of which are vital for healthy skin.
Step 9
Increase your fiber intake. Excess toxins in the body can trigger psoriasis outbreaks. Fiber binds to toxins and helps transport them out of the body.
Step 10
Take milk thistle and sarsaparilla. Milk thistle supports the liver. A healthy liver is necessary in order for toxins to be excreted from the body. Sarsaparilla may also be beneficial in eliminating toxins from the body.
References
- Mayo Clinic for psoriasis information
- Prescription for Nutritional Healing; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2006
- Prescription for Herbal Healing; Phyllis A Balch, C.N.C; 2002
