Psoriasis is unlike other skin conditions, many of which are caused by external irritations. Psoriasis may be one of the oldest recorded skin conditions. Plaque psoriasis is the most common type of psoriasis. About 80% of people who develop psoriasis have plaque psoriasis, which appears as patches of raised, reddish skin covered by silvery-white scale. These patches, or plaques, frequently form on the elbows, knees, lower back, and scalp. However, the plaques can occur anywhere on the body. Unlike skin conditions that are the result of external causes, psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder.
Drug treatments are much the same as for rheumatoid arthritis, and include steroids and biologics that depress the immune system. These treatments come with a high risk of side effects, and the prohibitive cost puts them out of reach of many people. While this condition is not life threatening, it has a profound effect on the peoples lives, self esteem and confidence.Psoriasis is a wide spread skin problem that causes great discomfort, sleep problems, and greatly diminishes quality of life for those who suffer from it.
Here are some natural remedies and some additional health bonuses you can enjoy from using them:
Apple cider vinegar:
Also apply to skin to remove warts and age spots. If taken internally, apple cider vinegar can help to cleanse the liver, lymph system, and help balance out the body’s alkalinity.
Dead sea mud:
In addition to exfoliating skin, black dead sea mud also helps to maintain healthy looking skin and improves circulation. This special mud is a heavy duty moisturizer and can be used to also treat eczema and acne.
Olive oil: Applied topically, olive oil rejuvenates and repairs skin but also yields significant health benefits if taken orally such as reducing the risk of heart disease and aiding in digestion.
Goldenseal:
Goldenseal has dozens of other uses including aiding in digestion, antiseptic properties and promotion of healthy heart function. Nausea, vomiting, and night sweats can also be treated with this ancient herb.
Epsom salt:
Bathing in Epsom salt can help with skin inflammation and rashes in addition to psoriasis and has the added effect of relieving joint pain, muscle pain, and fibromyalgia.
Comfrey:
Comfrey stimulates rapid skin regeneration so effectively that it has been used frequently by battlefield medics. Comfrey is also used to treat diarrhea, dysentery, mouth sores, and promotes cardiovascular health.
Aloe Vera: Psoriasis can be effectively treated using the gel from this plant which is also widely used to relieve traumatic burns and overexposure to the sun. Aloe Vera can also be used to treat skin abrasions and acne.
Coconut oil:
In addition to being an effective treatment for multiple skin problems including psoriasis, coconut oil can also be used for healthy hair and promotes heart health. Data shows that coconut oil, if ingested regularly, can promote brain health and prevent Alzheimer’s disease.
Dead sea salt:
Studies show that all the symptoms of psoriasis can be alleviated by taking dead sea salt baths. Muscle relaxation is another plus and even people who suffer from osteoarthritis have reported having reduced pain as a result of trying dead sea salt.
Tea tree oil:
Other skin conditions such as boils, acne, and warts can be effectively treated using this essential oil as well. Soar throat, congestion, dandruff, and lice are also treatable using tea tree oil.
Sunlight:
Calcium and phosphorus absorption are aided by the production of vitamin D resulting from sun exposure, helping to promote bone health as well as skin health. Sunlight has been shown to help with depression as well.
Neem leaf oil:
Neem leaf oil can also help with head lice, eczema, and scabies.