Natural Psoriasis Relief

A non-contagious skin condition, psoriasis appears as scaly patches often found on the skin of the legs, knees, arms, elbows, back and ears. Linked to heredity, psoriasis occurs when the cells of the skin’s outer layer grow too rapidly. Although there is no cure for psoriasis, there are several actions that a person with psoriasis can take to reduce symptoms.

Psoriasis Triggers

Beginning most commonly between the ages of 15 and 25, psoriasis is often triggered by stress and nervous tension. Other contributing factors include sunburn, drugs or alcohol, injury or surgery, cuts and viral infections.

Although the primary underlying cause of psoriasis is unknown, it is suspected that psoriasis may result from a faulty utilization of fat in the body, as citizens of countries that consume very little fat rarely exhibit this skin condition. What is known is that the buildup of toxins in an unhealthy colon has been linked to the development of psoriasis.

Helpful Herbs

To reduce redness and swelling, try brushing off the scaly patches gently with a loofah sponge, and apply an alcohol-free goldenseal extract to the affected area.

Adding two teaspoons of ginger and a few drops of lavender oil to the bathwater will fight inflammation and sooth irritated skin.

Burdock root, red clover or milk thistle extract taken internally will help cleanse the blood. To help detoxify the body, try sarsaparilla and yellow dock.

Dead Sea Salts

Containing a wide variety of naturally occurring minerals, Dead Sea salts are rich in magnesium, bromide, potassium, sulfur, calcium, zinc, sodium and iodine. These minerals work wonders on relieving psoriasis symptoms.

Try adding about one pound of Dead Sea salts to the bathwater. They will soften the skin, ease inflammation and help in detoxification. To receive the full benefits, make sure that the salt truly comes from the Dead Sea and that these therapeutic baths are taken several times a week. Those seeking healing who bathe in the Dead Sea inself simultaneously receive the benefit of sunlight.

Dietary Changes

To promote general health and encourage healthy skin, eat a diet which includes plenty of fiber and nutrients found in fruits, grains and vegetables. Eating sources of essential omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon and flax seeds will benefit the skin and the heart. Omega-3 fatty acids help psoriasis by interfering with the production of the natural substance which causes psoriasis to turn red and swell. Taking fish oil or primrose oil supplements will also supply the body with this important ingredient.
Foods which are known to worsen psoriasis include fried foods, citrus fruits, saturated fats, processed foods, sugar and white flour.

Additional Recommendations

Taking 2,000 to 10,000 milligrams of vitamin C with bioflavonoids is recommended to help enhance the immune system and assist the skin’s production of collagen.

Exposing the skin to natural sunlight for 15 to 30 minutes per day may help reduce scaling and redness.

Colon cleansing is important in helping to relieve psoriasis. When psyllium husks, which can be purchased at health food stores, are taken, toxins in the colon bind to the insoluble fiber, which promotes their excretion.