Psoriasis is a common skin condition that is usually diagnosed between ages 15 and 35. It seems that heredity and the involvement of the immune system play are role in the development of this disease. Trigger factors include stress, excessive consumption of alcohol, some conventional drugs and too much or too little exposure to sunlight. Common symptoms include red, flaky lesions covered by silvery scales. Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced by the pineal gland in your brain and is also available as an over-the-counter supplement. Talk to your health care provider before taking melatonin.
Low Melatonin Levels and Psoriasis
A small study published in 1988 in "Acta dermato-venereologica" found that individuals with psoriasis had significantly lower levels of melatonin, compared with healthy subjects. The authors suggest that the role of melatonin in psoriasis should be further investigated, especially because it appears that this hormone might be linked with other two hormones, growth hormone, also known as GH, and prolactin, which also appear to be lower in patients with psoriasis.
Melatonin Therapy for Psoriasis
Melatonin helps regulate the sleep-awake cycle and the aging process and promotes a healthy immune system. It has antioxidant activity and therefore prevents cellular damage caused by free radicals. It also appears to play a role in the development and treatment of certain skin conditions, including psoriasis, eczema and melanoma, according to an article in January 1999 issue of the German journal "Der Hautarzt: Zeitchsrift fur Dermatologie, Venerologie, Verwandte Gabiete."
Bottom Line
Although various research studies show possible benefits of melatonin for psoriasis and skin conditions, the effects of this hormone on skin disorders is still poorly understood, and further studies are needed to confirm these findings, says S.R. Pandi-Perumal, author of "Melatonin: From Molecules to Therapy."
Considerations
Currently melatonin shows promising benefits for managing psoriasis, but these benefits are not well supported by medical literature. Consult a qualified health care to find out what vitamins, herbs and other natural supplements may help your condition. A healthy diet may also improve your skin lesions. Keep in mind that melatonin and other natural supplements do not replace and should not be used to replace any drugs or therapies recommended for psoriasis.
References
- UMMC: Psoriasis
- "Acta Dermato-venereologica"; Plasma Melatonin Levels in Psoriasis; N.Mozzanica et al; 1988
- "Der Hautarzt: Zeitchsrift fur Dermatologie, Venerologie, Verwandte Gabiete."; Melatonin in Dermatology. Experimental and Clinical Aspects; T. Fischer et al; January, 1999
- " Melatonin-from Molecules To Therapy" ; S.R. Pandi-Perumal et al; 2007
