Psoriasis is a commonly experienced skin problem that involves skin irritation and redness. The National Center for Biotechnology Information states that if you have psoriasis, you may have flaky patches of skin or scales on various parts of your body, including your scalp. Herbal alternative medicines and remedies have historically been used in treating this condition. However, you should always review herb-related topics with your family physician before using herbs for your psoriasis.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis, including scalp psoriasis, is a chronic, or long-term, health problem that can recur at any point. The National Health Service of the United Kingdom notes that the severity of psoriasis symptoms often varies significantly between people. Common signs and symptoms associated with this condition include dry and flaky skin, skin that is pink or red in color, and skin that is raised and thick. Common triggers for psoriasis attacks include stress, reduced exposure to sunlight and consuming excessive amounts of alcohol.
Herbal Alternative Medicines
Dr. Joseph E. Pizzorno Jr., a naturopathic physician and author of "The Clinician's Handbook of Natural Medicine," states that the conventional medical treatment of psoriasis involves the use of hydrocortisone -- a steroid hormone. There are several botanical alternatives that may be applied topically to help treat this condition, notes Pizzorno. Examples of herbal alternative medicines for scalp psoriasis include licorice root, chamomile, cayenne pepper and aloe vera. Dandelion and yellow dock may also be helpful.
Highlighted Remedy
Cayenne pepper contains an active ingredient known as capsaicin that may be helpful in treating your psoriasis when it is applied to your affected areas. When applied topically, notes Pizzorno, this substance stimulates and blocks pain fibers and activates inflammatory mediators, which helps treat psoriasis. Capsaicin has historically been used to treat the scaling, redness and burning associated with this condition and has proven superior to placebo, notes Pizzorno. Some people using this herbal medicine may notice some initial stinging and itching.
Disclaimer
Several notable health complications are associated with psoriasis, states the National Center for Biotechnology Information, including pain, severe itching, secondary skin infections and side effects associated with conventional medicines used in treating this condition. Although herbal alternative medicines may be helpful in treating your scalp psoriasis, many herbs are yet to be rigorously studied by contemporary medical science. Exercise great caution when using herbs, and always ask your doctor about possible side effects and drug interaction.
References
- National Center for Biotechnology Information: Psoriasis
- National Health Service: Psoriasis
- "The Clinician's Handbook of Natural Medicine"; Joseph E. Pizzorno, Jr., N.D.; 2002
