Psoriasis Natural Treatment

Approximately two percent of the world’s population suffers from psoriasis.  Psoriasis is a chronic disorder of the skin usually affecting the elbows, knees, scalp, and/or groin.  It is characterized b y reddish, scaly patches of inflammation.  It is a life-long condition that can be controlled by treatment but never cured.  It is a non-discriminating disease striking young or old, male or female and all ethnic groups.
Many psoriasis sufferers are turning to natural treatments due to some of the side effects of conventional treatments.
Psoriasis natural treatment has other health benefits, as well as bringing relief to itchy and scaly skin.  Since there are various ways in which psoriasis manifests itself there are various ways to treat this skin disorder.
Light therapy is a very effective treatment of psoriasis.  Dermatologists will prescribe this treatment usually after topical creams fail to offer the psoriasis sufferer any relief.  These light units can be purchased but are quite expensive.
Many sufferers are turning to herbal treatments for relief from their psoriasis symptoms.  Make sure the herbs you chose are safe for you.  Although herbs are natural they can be harmful if you have a pre-existing medical condition.  Consult a healthcare professional if you are not sure.
Oregano, a commonly used spice in baking and cooking has been used successfully to fight infections associated with psoriasis.  Oregano possesses antibacterial and antifungal properties.  Most health food stores carry Oregano Oil that can be used in the treatment of psoriasis.  The oil can be taken orally or applied to the skin.  Some users have reported an allergic reaction when applied to their skin.
Milk thistle is another popular herb taken by psoriasis sufferers.  It is believed to inhibit human T-cell activation, which occurs in psoriasis.    It also neutralizes the toxins released in the body and encourages proper functioning of the liver.  Care should be taken when using milk thistle.  Although few adverse effects have been seen, anyone taking antipsychotic or male hormones should avoid milk thistle.
St. John’s wort is another herb used in the fight against psoriasis.  However it can also increase a person’s sensitivity to light which could have an adverse effect for people treating their psoriasis with light therapy.
Shark Cartilage extract helps prevent the formation of new blood vessels.  The growth of new blood vessels is believed to help in the development and progression of psoriasis.  Also the anti-inflammatory properties of shark cartilage help relieve the symptoms of psoriasis.  Shark cartilage is normally taken in pill form and can be found at most health food stores.
The next herb that we are going to look at is turmeric.  Turmeric is the main component of curry powders used in cooking especially Chinese.  People who use this to relieve their psoriasis symptoms tend to mix the powder form right in their food.  It is believed that turmeric helps relieve swelling, pain and inflammation.   People with gallstones or bile duct problems should avoid turmeric as one of the compounds in turmeric called curcumin can cause contractions of the gallbladder.
There are many other herbs used for psoriasis home remedies..  As a final thought, if you suffer from psoriasis supplementing your diet with natural vitamins and minerals that boost the immune system can help in the prevention of an outbreak of psoriasis.  Adding more vitamins such as Vitamin A, C, E, and Zinc and antioxidants such as Beta Carotene can be very beneficial.  Something as simple as ingesting 3 cloves of garlic daily can make a tremendous difference.