Vitiligo is a condition in which the skin loses pigment, thereby resulting in large white patches that expand over time. The condition is more noticeable in people with darker skin, and although it is not a serious health problem, it can be stressful and affect your self-confidence. There is no cure for vitiligo; treatment revolves around slowing its spread and helping the skin return some of the lost pigment. Some herbs and supplements may be helpful in your treatment, however, you should first consult your doctor.
Step 1
Visit a traditional Chinese herbalist who may offer psoralen, which is a chemical compound derived from herbs that may help make rejuvenate the affected skin with the application of UV light.
Step 2
Take ginkgo biloba, a tree leaf that has been used for centuries to treat circulatory problems and enhance memory. Ginkgo may be helpful in restoring pigmentation to skin affected by vitiligo. According to Mayo Clinic, ginkgo biloba showed some success in a small study, but sufficient evidence is lacking at this time. You should consult your doctor first before using it.
Step 3
Ask your doctor about using phenylalanine, an essential fatty acid that may help improve the effectiveness of UVA radiation for people with vitiligo. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, preliminary studies have found that oral and topical administrations of phenylalanine showed some effectiveness in restoring pigmentation, but more research is still needed.
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