An estimated 5 million Americans suffer from psoriasis, a skin disorder that causes silvery scaly skin and itchy, inflamed patches. The skin condition changes from remission to periods of significant action. Treatments only manage symptoms; no cure exists for the chronic disease. Exposing skin to sunlight, applying topical medication and using alternative medicine treatments manage psoriasis. Consult a medical health care professional before using herbal medicine.
Calendula
The extract from petals of the calendula, or marigold, flower prepared as salves, tinctures or washes speeds healing of psoriatic irritation and broken skin. The flower may operate as a blood flow stimulator, bringing healing oxygen and nutrients to the affected area. The herb heals the topical problems associated with the disorder, according to Kathi Keville, director of the American Herb Association and author of 11 herb and aromatherapy books.
Oregon Grape
An ointment containing Oregon grape can help prevent excessive cell production implicated in psoriasis, according to Kim Erickson, the author of Drop Dead Gorgeous: Protecting Yourself from the Hidden Dangers of Cosmetics. Oregon grape also improves the skin's immune response and reduces inflammation.
Burdock
Burdock purifies the blood by supporting the body's metabolism and elimination of toxins. This action improves skin conditions including psoriasis, according to Chanchal Cabrera, herbalist and clinical aromatherapist and member of the advisory board in botanical medicine for Bastyr University.
Milk Thistle
Herbalists approach psoriasis treatment in two ways: Treat the skin and purify the blood by supporting the organs that remove toxins from the body. Eliminating the source toxins involves treating the liver, according to Karta Purkh Singh Khalsa, licensed nutritionist and American Herbalists Guild board member. The silymarin compound in milk thistle repairs and renews liver cells damaged by contaminants.
References
- "The Herb Companion": Ask the Herbalist: Soothe Psoriasis with Natural Remedies
- MayoClinic.com: Psoriasis
- "The Herb Companion": Heal the Skin You're In: Medicinal Herbs for Eczema, Psoriasis and Rosacea
- Bastyr University: Herbal Monographs: Arctium Lappa
- "The Herb Companion": Q and A: Home Remedies for Psoriasis
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Calendula
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