Can Complementary Medicine Help Mitigate Psoriasis Symptoms?

The global psoriasis treatment market was valued to be US$7.0 billion in 2016 and is expected to reach US$10.68 billion by 2022. However, low efficacy coupled with high costs makes one wonder if complementary medicines can provide an effective alternative. A study made by a group of researchers from the School of Medicine at the University of California-San Francisco, published their findings in the journal Dermatologic Therapy, in May 2017. The study provided meaningful results for those who suffer from the disorder, known as a genetic condition that may not be present at birth but that may be triggered by certain environmental and genetic factors.

The study suggested that in order to adopt an effective diet to help lessen the symptoms of psoriasis, it might be reasonable to have different nutritional approaches based on the type of psoriasis (e.g. psoriatic arthritis, among others). Other studies have to lead the discussion to a condition that is rapidly growing among millions of people. The Leaky Gut Syndrome is a condition not only affects the digestive system, but it’s said to be the cause of food allergies, low energy, joint pain, thyroid disease, autoimmune conditions and slow metabolism.

A typical treatment for psoriasis will include the application of creams or ointments on affected areas, usually located in elbows, legs, scalp, lower back, face, palms and soles of the feet. Also, some people with psoriasis consume less sugar, dairy and whole grain fiber than people without the disease. More than half of the survey participants reported that reducing alcohol, gluten, and nightshades – members of the plant family that includes tomatoes, potatoes, eggplant, and peppers – led to noticeable improvement in their symptoms. Adding fish oil, vegetables, and vitamin D proved helpful as well.

An alternative treatment will combine the consumption of anti-inflammatory foods with an overall approach that includes: a reduction of stress, exercise & intake of water, and nature-based topical remedies. Some of the nature-based topical remedies include Oregon grape (10 percent) cream, avocado and vitamin B12 cream, and aloe (0.5 percent) cream.

Food for Health

When it comes to food choices to combat psoriasis, there are several recommendations to keep in mind, but overall it is suggested to avoid processed foods, simple sugars, alcohol, conventional dairy, conventional meats, hydrogenated oils and fried foods.

Foods high in probiotics help remove toxins from the body, reduce inflammation and boost immunity.  Also, fruits, vegetables, beans, and seeds are high in fiber and help avoid constipation, keeping your natural detoxification processes on track. Antioxidant food is key because people with psoriasis are prone to cancer and heart disease.

Zincis a booster of healthy skin because it helps reduce pain and joint swelling. Foods like grass-fed beef, lamb, pumpkin seeds, kefir, and chickpeas are all great sources of zinc. Vitamin Ais also highly recommended for skin healing so oranges, yellow and dark leafy green vegetables are excellent ways to increase your Vitamin A levels. Also, cantaloupe, carrots, mango, tomatoes, kale, collard greens, and watermelon are good sources of Vitamin A.

Vitamin D is clinically proven to help fight psoriasis so incorporating oily fish like salmon, mackerel, herring and sardines to a balanced diet is key. Another healthy choice to fight psoriasis is raw dairy because it’s rich in Vitamin D and enzymes.

 Lastly, many herbs and spices have anti-inflammatory properties and can also have antioxidant benefits. Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, is known for its potent health properties; it is also known for its ability to alter TNF cytokine expression, which plays an essential role in the start and continuation of psoriatic lesions.

Many studies have been made to understand the root cause of psoriasis. As of now, the condition has no cure, however, there are many natural home remedies that have shown improvement not only in the condition itself but also in other aspects of health. With 7.5 million Americans—approximately 2.2 percent of the population—suffering from psoriasis its worthy to try complimentary medicines that may also improve your health overall.