Doctors of natural and conventional medicine both agree that sunlight can heal a wide variety of health conditions, particularly conditions affecting the skin. Doctors describe the positive effects that sunlight has on the skin and prescribe sunshine for treating different types of skin conditions. When the forecast calls for a sunny day, take a few minutes to enjoy the sun.
Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis, or TB, is an infectious disease caused by mycobacterium. The bacteria enter the skin, usually through an open cut or wound, and affect other parts of the body, such as the lungs, resulting in a condition called pulmonary tuberculosis. According to the University of Maryland, many TB patients do not get regular exposure to sunlight and may live in crowded or unsanitary habitats. Sunlight provides Vitamin D, an important vitamin that mediates an innate immunity to microbial infection. Arnold Lorand, author of "Old Age Deferred," says that a lack of sunshine invites bacterial and fungal infections. Sunlight can also speed up the healing of skin lesions and wounds on the skin, a common symptom experienced by TB patients. Follow the sunshine prescription as directed by your physician or enjoy a few minutes of sunshine each day as a prevention strategy to keep from contracting TB.
Clear Skin
As a natural disinfectant, sunlight can clear up problem skin.Sunlight can dry up the ooze contained in boils, cysts, acne and other skin abscesses. The seeping ooze or pus inside the affected area can transfer bacteria to other areas of the skin and potentially cause another skin abscess. Sunlight may stop the domino effect by drying up the ooze and killing the bacteria that causes the infection.
Stretch Marks
Sunlight brightens the skin and smooths out skin tone. Exposure to sunshine may decrease the appearance of stretch marks, scars, and other skin imperfections. According to Jonathan Zizmore, author of Super Skin Deep, a daily dose of sunshine increases metabolism and facilitates weight loss, which may prevent the formation of stretch marks.
Psoriasis
The National Psoriasis Institute recommends light therapy as a treatment for psoriasis. A psoriasis clinic utilizes light therapy in two ways. For light therapy in the medical office, the doctor may use a laser device. The doctor may also prescribe a daily dose of natural sunlight outdoors. In rare cases, such as in a climate lacking sunlight, a doctor may suggest using a tanning bed.
Prevent Skin Cancer
A recent study by immunology scientists at Stanford University says some sunlight can help prevent skin cancer. The key is exposure in moderation--about half an hour per day. Sunlight makes the body synthesize vitamin D, which provides some protection from the risk of skin cancer. The production of vitamin D is spurred on as an immunity response when the body receives ultraviolet B (UVB) rays from sunlight.
