Psoriasis Patient
The goal of naturopathic medicine is to "do no harm" by keeping side effects to a minimum and avoiding the suppression of symptoms, using nature's own healing powers instead of powerful drugs. Psoriasis, with its scaly silvery plaques on elbows, knees and scalp, can prove particularly difficult to treat with traditional medicine. Naturopathic treatments try to identify and treat any causes of health imbalance that are making the individual susceptible to psoriasis in the first place.
Diet
Many naturopathic practitioners believe the single greatest contributing factor in psoriasis is diet. Food allergies and intolerances may be part of this, but bad eating in general is the problem. Things to remove from for a period of several weeks as a test include all wheat, meat and diary with the exception of plain yogurt, if tolerated. Avoid artificial sweeteners, but Aspartame in particular. Foods to include in abundance in are fresh (preferably organic) fruits and vegetables, and oily fish like mackerel, salmon, sardines and herring. You can also include beans and nuts, except peanuts which have more mold and are the most allergenic.
Supplements
Supplement with a daily tablespoonful of flaxseed, canola or cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil or take capsules of essential fatty acids which include borage, evening primrose and fish oils. Other supplements that might help are vitamin A (10,000 IU three times a day for six days), vitamin B complex, vitamin D, spirulina (an algae rich in micro-minerals), zinc, vitamin C, selenium and digestive enzymes, all in moderate doses. Milk thistle herbal tea or milk thistle capsules are helpful in promoting healthy liver function, which can benefit psoriasis sufferers.
Skin Care
Many naturopaths believe natural sunlight is a beneficial treatment for psoriasis, especially earlier in the day before the sun gets too hot, but exposure must not exceed 5 to 30 minutes to avoid skin damage. Creams and lotions can be helpful, with one of the best and most inexpensive being Vaseline or a similar petroleum jelly product. Wet the affected skin two to three times a day and apply the Vaseline over the area on top of the skin to seal in the moisture. Creams or gels that can control itching include aloe vera, calendula juice or cream and capsaicin cream from cayenne peppers. You can also rub fresh yarrow juice on the affected areas or add a few drops of yarrow essential oils in the bath water. Use warm compresses containing lemon juice or liquid whey to soften the hardened scales. If you have scalp psoriasis, try using a chlorine shower filter.
Other Lifestyle Changes
Alcohol and smoking both make symptoms worse. Obesity can also contribute to symptoms, as the condition increases overall bodily inflammation. Avoid excessive stress and try meditation and yoga to help relax.
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