Alternative Medicine for Psoriasis

By Daniel Fraser

Psoriasis is a noncontagious, skin disease that is caused by an overreaction of the body's own immune system, which speeds up the growth and life cycle of skin cells. Usually, a skin cell matures and falls off the body's surface in about 30 days. However, a psoriatic skin cell takes only three to four days to mature and move to the surface. Instead of falling off, extra skin cells build up on the skin's surface forming "plaques" which appear red, flaky and scaly that are often itchy and painful.
The plaques vary in size from being minute papules to sheets covering larger parts of the body. Not only does the disease affect knees, skin behind the ears or scalp, but it also affects the underarms and genital areas.
Common triggers that aggravate and precipitate the outbreak of psoriasis are severe stress, trauma or injury, severe illnesses such as strep throat, and change in diet.
Psoriasis is considered incurable, therefore treatment and medicine is focused on reducing or controlling the symptoms of psoriasis. Following are some non-prescription remedies for psoriasis.
Food Remedies for psoriasis
Psoriasis is a metabolic disease, therefore it is very useful to follow a well-balanced diet. Include foods with zinc: seafood, meat, seeds, and cooked dried beans, peas and lentils; beta carotene: sweet potato, kale, carrots, turnip greens, mustard greens, and spinach; vitamin D: cod liver oil, fish, fortified cereals, oysters, and caviar; and omega-3 fatty acids: salmon, trout, tuna, mackerel, sardines and herring.
Soluble fiber such as pectin, guar gum, and psyllium are very useful for binding toxins. However, you should also eat things like flaxseed oils, folic acids (present in bok choy, beets, chick peas, turkey, peas, and oranges). Foods that aggravate psoriasis are spicy foods and liver and other organ meats.
Homeopathy remedies
There are multiple homeopathic medicines available in capsules, ointments, and oils: arsenicum iodatum, graphites, calcarea carbonica, mezereum, mercurius solubilis, sepai, staphysagria, sulphur, rhus toxicodendron, and petroleum.
Other psoriasis remedies
Many non-prescription medications contain natural and herbal ingredients which are known to help soften and restore skin problems. You can use aloe Vera extract in a topical application (apply three times a day and do not cover). You can also use essential oils like avocado oil, jojoba oil, almond oil, cashew nut oil, Vitamin E, oatmeal, and buttermilk as homemade remedies.
Sunshine on the skin can clear up mild cases of psoriasis. The sun helps kill surface skin cells more quickly and this helps them shed faster.
To learn more about the different types of alternative medicine available, visit [http://www.med-e-zine.com] where you'll find this and much more, including information on holistic health and healing.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Daniel_Fraser/1677159
http://EzineArticles.com/?Alternative-Medicine-for-Psoriasis&id=7952848

Alternative Medicine for Psoriasis

By Daniel Fraser

Psoriasis is a noncontagious, skin disease that is caused by an overreaction of the body's own immune system, which speeds up the growth and life cycle of skin cells. Usually, a skin cell matures and falls off the body's surface in about 30 days. However, a psoriatic skin cell takes only three to four days to mature and move to the surface. Instead of falling off, extra skin cells build up on the skin's surface forming "plaques" which appear red, flaky and scaly that are often itchy and painful.
The plaques vary in size from being minute papules to sheets covering larger parts of the body. Not only does the disease affect knees, skin behind the ears or scalp, but it also affects the underarms and genital areas.
Common triggers that aggravate and precipitate the outbreak of psoriasis are severe stress, trauma or injury, severe illnesses such as strep throat, and change in diet.
Psoriasis is considered incurable, therefore treatment and medicine is focused on reducing or controlling the symptoms of psoriasis. Following are some non-prescription remedies for psoriasis.
Food Remedies for psoriasis
Psoriasis is a metabolic disease, therefore it is very useful to follow a well-balanced diet. Include foods with zinc: seafood, meat, seeds, and cooked dried beans, peas and lentils; beta carotene: sweet potato, kale, carrots, turnip greens, mustard greens, and spinach; vitamin D: cod liver oil, fish, fortified cereals, oysters, and caviar; and omega-3 fatty acids: salmon, trout, tuna, mackerel, sardines and herring.
Soluble fiber such as pectin, guar gum, and psyllium are very useful for binding toxins. However, you should also eat things like flaxseed oils, folic acids (present in bok choy, beets, chick peas, turkey, peas, and oranges). Foods that aggravate psoriasis are spicy foods and liver and other organ meats.
Homeopathy remedies
There are multiple homeopathic medicines available in capsules, ointments, and oils: arsenicum iodatum, graphites, calcarea carbonica, mezereum, mercurius solubilis, sepai, staphysagria, sulphur, rhus toxicodendron, and petroleum.
Other psoriasis remedies
Many non-prescription medications contain natural and herbal ingredients which are known to help soften and restore skin problems. You can use aloe Vera extract in a topical application (apply three times a day and do not cover). You can also use essential oils like avocado oil, jojoba oil, almond oil, cashew nut oil, Vitamin E, oatmeal, and buttermilk as homemade remedies.
Sunshine on the skin can clear up mild cases of psoriasis. The sun helps kill surface skin cells more quickly and this helps them shed faster.
To learn more about the different types of alternative medicine available, visit [http://www.med-e-zine.com] where you'll find this and much more, including information on holistic health and healing.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Daniel_Fraser/1677159
http://EzineArticles.com/?Alternative-Medicine-for-Psoriasis&id=7952848

Treatment for Scalp Psoriasis

By Stacy Merry Scott

Unfortunately, the cause of psoriasis is not known and this in itself makes it difficult to treat. It most often is evident on the trunk of the body and the scalp as well. It's recognized by various sizes of red patches that are covered with a layer of dry silver colored scales.
At first you may be thinking that it's just dandruff that you are suffering from. You will be able to tell the difference because dandruff affects the entire scalp whereas scalp psoriasis only affects areas in patches. It used to be thought that this condition once it affected the scalp would cause hair loss, but this is not the case.
The first step to getting the proper treatment is recognizing you have scalp psoriasis and then getting it properly diagnosed. From here, there are several treatment options. In some cases, it has been said that the UV rays from the sun or sun beds may be beneficial. This is something that has to be approached with extreme caution. Overdoing it can actually make the condition much worse.
Unfortunately, there is not just one treatment that can be totally relied on for the cure of scalp psoriasis. There are many types of treatments that seem to work well in some and not in others.
Most often some type of topical treatment will be given. These are creams or lotions that are applied and they may be corticosteroids, or tar creams just to name a few. One of the issues with psoriasis is that the lesions are thick and must be reduced in order for the treatments to be effective they must be thinned down. Ideally, the topical treatment should be a lotion, liquid or a gel. Creams and ointment-based products are far too difficult to apply to the scalp as it gets entangled with the hair.
Quite often, these types of treatments will start to work within a two-week period. The other topical treatments vary. For example, treatments that are a derivative of vitamin D usually take up to two months to start working. They in many cases though are safer to use than the steroids and the results are more long term. The downside is that it can be irritating to the skin.
The retinoid treatments, which are based on vitamin A, are also quite successful, but can be an irritant as well. These treatments should not be used by pregnant women.
On occasion oral treatments will be used but not too often. This is more readily used when the psoriasis is just not responding to any of the topical treatments. They may also be used if the itch is out of control. When this is the case, there is a chance of infection from scratching, so attempts have to be made to get it into control.
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Coping With Itchy Penis Skin: Soothe Psoriasis With Shea Butter

By John Dugan

Men who suffer from psoriasis often have to deal with the uncomfortable itching, flaking and red skin patches that come with this chronic condition. It is an uncomfortable and, at times, embarrassing problem, and as if itching, flaking arms weren't bad enough, some men even develop patches of red, itchy penis skin.
When it comes to the delicate skin of the penis, some men may be hesitant to use steroid creams or other types of medications that are typically used in treating this issue, so what other options are available? Fortunately, there are natural options to help reduce symptoms of penis psoriasis and keep the penis healthy; these are something any man can feel good about using.
Is below the belt itching always psoriasis?
Some men may struggle with below the belt itching and wonder if their symptoms warrant a diagnosis of psoriasis. While it is a good idea to make a trip to the dermatologist to get any persistent itching or skin condition checked out, here are the symptoms that may indicate psoriasis is present:

1. Skin flaking;
2. Inflammation and redness of the skin;
3. Thick patches of skin that may be red, white or silvery in color;
4. Rash-like appearance that may easily bleed if scratched or rubbed;
5. A few red bumps that spread out into larger patches;
6. Flare-ups triggered by stress, medications, smoking or drinking alcohol.

Because many of these symptoms can indicate numerous problems, it really is best to get a professional opinion before embarking on a course of treatment.
What are the treatment options for psoriasis?
Depending on the severity of the condition, there are numerous treatments that a doctor may recommend. Many patients may need to try different options to find the best course of treatment for them.

• Topical Treatments: Some men find relief from itching and redness by using topical steroid creams or ointments. These creams include ingredients such as: salicylic acid, retinoids, coal tar, and anthralin, which in some cases men find irritating to the penis skin.
• Phototherapy: A common treatment for moderate to severe psoriasis is phototherapy, which uses special UVA or UVB lights in a carefully controlled setting to help clear up the lesions. Some patients experience negative side effects from this treatment type, including increased risk of skin cancer.
• Laser Therapy: This type of treatment uses specialized lasers to treat patches of psoriasis on the skin without involving healthy skin. Though the side effects and risks may be lower than that of phototherapy, some men are still skittish when it comes to having a laser pointed at their penis.
• Oral Medication: For individuals who have severe psoriasis, oral medication may be needed. Psoriasis is the result of an overactive immune system, which is what oral medications seek to target. Many medications come with serious side effects, making them a last-resort option for treatment.
• Natural Remedies: Given the number of side effects and risks that can come with pharmaceutical treatments for psoriasis, many men seek natural treatments and remedies - particularly when it comes to their most sensitive skin - the penis skin. Natural options include products containing tea tree oil, oatmeal baths, aloe, Shea butter, and vitamin E.

Soothing Penis Skin Care
Men wishing to go the natural route may benefit from selecting a specially-formulated penis vitamin cream which contains Shea butter, vitamin E and other carefully selected nutrients to keep the penis healthy (most health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil). Using such a product daily can help reduce psoriasis symptoms and keep them at bay, which can add up to clear and healthy penis skin in no time. Not only can a penis oil improve the health of the skin, the rich moisturizing cream also soothes on contact to relieve itchy, irritated skin.
Visit www.man1health.com for more information about treating common penis health problems, including soreness, redness and loss of penis sensation. John Dugan is a professional writer who specializes in men's health issues and is an ongoing contributing writer to numerous online web sites.
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How to Cure Psoriasis Fast

By Jesse A West

To date, no one actually knows whether Psoriasis is an infection or an allergy. Basically, it is an extremely mysterious disease. It has been believed that nearly 35% of its patients have a family history of Psoriasis and for the remaining patients sedentary lifestyle, alcoholism, and weight issues are the major causes.
Like any other bacterial disease, Psoriasis too has a treatment and medication that can relieve the patient from this disease in a short duration of time. Both medical and natural remedies work for Psoriasis. The choice of treatment depends entirely on your preference. The following are a few ways to cure Psoriasis fast:
Topical solution: Many topical solutions are available to cure Psoriasis, some of them being moisturizers, petroleum jelly and Epsom salt. These creams and moisturizers help to curb the itching and dryness of the infected areas and relieve the patient from Psoriasis. Numerous varieties of ointments and creams in this category reduce inflammation and clear the infected skin quickly.
Special blends of oil: Many people have experienced relieve from Psoriasis by using mixture of specific oils on infected area. Coal tar and dandruff shampoos are also considered to be worth a try when treating Psoriasis.
Changes in lifestyle: Yes, a few basic changes in one's lifestyle can help to cure Psoriasis at a fast rate. Various studies conducted from time to time suggest that a healthy lifestyle is the key to get rid of Psoriasis. Low energy, vegetarian diet with special component of fish oil is considered to be extremely beneficial in treating Psoriasis. To cure Psoriasis, one needs to quit smoking and alcohol on priority basis.
Systematic treatment: The other way of treating Psoriasis effectively is taking medicines orally or by injecting. The systematic treatment of Psoriasis consists of Methotrexate, Cyclosporine and Retinoid. A relatively new drug known as biologics are also given as a part of systematic treatment these days. These are proteins that interrupt the process of faulty immune system that cause Psoriasis.
Vitamin E: Vitamin E is considered to be highly beneficial for skin. Hence, a person suffering from Psoriasis can take vitamin E in the form of capsules or apply creams containing vitamin E.
Natural ways of combating Psoriasis consist of:
Frequently exposing infected body to sun helps combat Psoriasis.
Chamomile tea is also considered an extremely effective way to cure Psoriasis as helps calm your skin.
Researchers believe that controlling levels of anxiety and stress helps in curing Psoriasis quickly.
So, there are many ways in which Psoriasis can cured quickly, just make sure to complete one type of medication before going on to the other option.
Let us know what you think about the article and if you need help with treating your psoriasis today!
[http://www.bestpsoriasiscure.com/psoriasis_free.html]
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Managing Psoriasis Is Not Rocket Science

By Nina Jensen

Your health is a direct reflection of your lifestyle now. If your psoriasis suddenly becomes worse, it is possible that your current lifestyle is affecting how your body is able to balance and heal itself.
Ask yourself: 'am I treating my body and mind right with the way I live?'
Maybe you need to lessen the stress on your body that has been brought about by a bad lifestyle.

• Smoking is bad for anybody, but it is even worse when you are a psoriasis sufferer!
• What are you eating? Diet plays a very important role in keeping psoriasis at bay. No more fast food, but slow food instead, cooked by yourself at home. One of the fastest ways that you can clean up your tissues and cells is by eating whole, natural foods. Lean, organic meats are a must, but you must also start eating more vegetables and fruits. You don't have to eat raw vegetables; cook them anyway you like (but less oil, please) and make them an integral part of your daily diet.
• What are you drinking? Avoid soda's and alcohol! Drink herbal teas instead, and a lots of water of course...
• Sleep has a large bearing on your psoriasis, because less sleep means more stress on the body. Get at least six hours of sleep every night, and don't settle for less.
• What are you doing about stress? That's another well-known trigger that can cause more itchy flare-ups. Stress should not stick to you. You have to get rid of it. You can't always avoid the stressors, but you can always do something to relief the stress. Find a method to unstress that works for you and make that a routine in your daily program.

So it really bottles down to choosing a steady and stable lifestyle.
Maybe that sounds boring? Think about what you gain instead!
It's like stopping with smoking. It becomes easier when you focus on the benefits of not smoking! And after a while you get so used to it, that you can't even imagine lighting up a cigarette...
That is more or less the same with adjusting your life to psoriasis.
It simply takes effort, discipline and dedication.
If you want to keep the flare-ups down to a minimum, you will simply have to follow this path of discipline, there is no way around it, because there are no miracle cures available. Not yet anyway!
Finally this, using prescription drugs is no long term solution either. Of course you have to do what the doctor tells you to do, and certain drugs can be absolutely necessary at a particular moment, but you have to be careful if you keep taking those drugs for a longer period of time. The side affects are real!
Nina Jensen is a writer who specializes in health and beauty tips. You can check out her latest website at Best Psoriasis Natural Cure [http://www.bestpsoriasisnaturalcure.com], where she provides advise on how to treat psoriasis, including a Cure For Guttate Psoriasis [http://www.bestpsoriasisnaturalcure.com/cure-for-guttate-psoriasis.html], and much, much more...
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Nina_Jensen/1717535
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The Best Stress Relief for Psoriasis - Laughter!

By Joseph Hood

Stress does happen and as we know it can greatly affect us emotionally and physically. It is one of the most important triggers for psoriasis and psoriasis flare-ups.
The first thing we need to do is recognize the negative stress factors in our lives and how much time and energy we spend each day worrying or dealing with them. When you are aware of the sources of stress in your life, you need to increase your relaxation time. Remember, it is all about balance!
Become Posriasis Free For Life
Given the fact that most of us spend most of the day sitting at our jobs, we need to learn to relax our bodies. Proper relaxation is often ignored. We can recharge our bodies by following a few of these simple tips:
1. Breathing Exercises
Oxygenating the blood in our body will relax our muscles. Do deep breathing exercises by breathing deeply through your nose ad exhaling through your mouth. This can be accomplished in as little as 30 seconds or as much as 30 minutes. For added stress relief, visualize the tension and stress leaving your body with each breath.
2. Progressive Relaxation
Tense up all of the muscle groups in your body and then relax them. You can start with your face and neck and work your way down the muscle groups of your body: shoulders, arms, chest, back, abdominals, etc. Each muscle group can be tensed for about 10 seconds and then completely relaxed for 10 seconds.
3. Eat Smart and Exercise
Avoid excessive caffeine and refined sugars. These can cause severe spikes in blood sugar and leave you feeling jittery.
Exercise is the best-known, scientifically proven way to significantly reduce stress. It is a good distraction from our daily tasks and stresses. Exercise releases endorphins that help boost our mood. A healthy body can handle stress much better.
4. Relax Your Mind
Avoid negativity. Make the most out of every situation. When things are not going well, step back and look at the bigger picture. There are always setbacks on the path to achieving larger goals.
Use positive self-talk. Repeat short, powerful statements to yourself throughout the day (like "I am calm and can cope with this situation"). These positive and believable statements can train your subconscious and have a powerful impact on your outlook.
5. HAVE FUN AND LAUGH!
Relax! Enjoy! Manage your time and engage in activities you love to do whether it is listening to music, writing or playing video games.
Laughter really is the best medicine! A good laugh has multiple health benefits from relieving stress and pain to strengthening your immune system.
Did you know the following?
A good laugh relieves stress and leaves your muscles relaxed for up to 45 minutes
When laughing there is a 27% increase of beta-endorphines, the brain chemicals that boost happiness and fight depression.
Watching a funny movie you can boost your immune system activity by 26.5%.
Laughing causes a 39% reduction in the stress hormone cortisol.
People who laugh are less likely to develop persistent health conditions such as psoriasis.
The following tips will help you to stay happy and healthy:
Smile - Like laughter, it is an infectious happy expression.
Be Thankful - Always recognize the good things in life and find humor in your day.
Focus on the Funny - Talk about funny things that have happened to you, your friends or family. It gives everyone a chance to laugh together.
Laugh off Setbacks - If you are stuck in a bad situation, look for the humor in it and look ahead.
For more information on Psoriasis Cure: [http://www.psoriasiscuretreatment.com]
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