Skin that appears red with silver or white patches that look like scales may indicate psoriasis. This skin condition stems from skin cells forming and building up on the top layer of your skin, resulting in reddened skin that may crack, itch, burn or bleed. If you have psoriasis, you may need medication to treat or calm your symptoms. Herbal supplements such as ginger may not help your skin condition, but may offer some benefits for related symptoms, such as inflammation. As with any health supplement, consult your doctor before taking ginger to treat psoriasis or any other health condition.
Cause
Psoriasis may occur as a result of a disorder of the immune system, but psoriasis may also have a genetic component, causing the condition to run through families, explains MayoClinic.com. Environmental factors may trigger flare-ups of psoriasis, and these conditions may include infections, stress and cold temperatures. If you smoke or drink alcohol heavily, these factors may trigger an outbreak. If you have a scrape or other injury to your skin, or if you take medications such as certain blood pressure medications, these factors may contribute to a psoriasis flare-up.
Ginger
The aromatic and flavor components of ginger make this root a valuable addition to many foods and marinades, but ginger may offer a number of benefits to your health as well. Components in ginger may help relieve nausea caused by morning sickness and other conditions such as nausea after chemotherapy.
Ginger may have some benefits in relieving inflammation, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, and this could have some use for psoriasis sufferers. However, as of 2011, studies have not evaluated the role of ginger in relieving psoriasis symptoms.
Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis is a joint condition often associated with skin psoriasis. In mild forms of the condition, you may have stiffness and swelling in the joints of your fingers and toes, but in more severe cases of psoriatic arthritis, you could experience these symptoms throughout any joint in the body, including the spine.
The anti-inflammatory properties of ginger could help reduce swelling and soreness in your joints, but this will not treat the condition itself. You may need to take medications to fully resolve or relieve the painful condition.
Considerations
If you have psoriasis and think ginger may have some benefits for your symptoms, talk with your doctor. She can help you consider the extent of your condition and other available treatment options. You should not begin using ginger without first discussing use with your doctor since ginger supplements could interfere with medications or other health conditions you have.
