Plaque psoriasis is an autoimmune skin condition that plagues 5.5 million people worldwide. If you’re one of them, you’ve probably been hiding those red, scaly patches under long-sleeved clothing year-round. Find out how to heal plaque psoriasis naturally so you can be proud to show your skin off to the world.
What is Plaque Psoriasis?
Plaque psoriasis is the result of a rapid multiplication of skin cells on the epidermis (top layer of the skin) resulting in scaly, circular red patches on the trunk, arms, elbows and knees. During a flare-up, this skin condition can cause painful burning and itching.
Some people with plaque psoriasis also notice pits, indentations or discoloration in their fingernails. The fingernails may even separate from the nail bed itself.
What Causes it?
Studies show the cause can be hereditary. When a parent suffers from this inflammatory skin condition, the chances of the child developing it increase by 50 percent.
Outside environmental influences such as alcoholism, smoking, food intolerances, extreme sun exposure, stress and HIV infection can make symptoms worse.
How to Heal Plaque Psoriasis Naturally
Change Your Diet
Diet plays a major role in the health of your immune system. If your daily fare consists mostly of pre-packed, processed and fast foods, your symptoms may never go away. As with any autoimmune disease, your body needs fresh, whole food to heal and get strong.
Opt for foods such as:
Organic Vegetables and Fruit Organic Meat, Poultry and Fish Beans and Legumes (In a Bag, Not a Can) Nuts and Seeds Water, Organic Fruit Juice, Green Tea
Gluten and Lactose Intolerance
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, rye and oats. If you’re suffering from plaque psoriasis, you may be intolerant to gluten. Hidden lactose intolerance may also cause flare-ups. Remove all traces of both from your diet for one month to see if symptoms improve naturally.
Get Rid of Synthetic Cleaning Products and Cosmetics
If you have plaque psoriasis, your immune system is already very sensitive. Take a look at your household cleaning products. If they contain ingredients such as propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, methylene chloride or phosphates, you could be giving your immune system a run for its money each time you clean.
The same goes for your hair-care products, lotions and other cosmetics. Most commercial products contain harmful additives that tax the immune system and have even been reported to cause cancer.
Switch to organic household cleaning products or make your own. As for cosmetics, there are plenty of natural alternatives to choose from and they work just as well if not better than what you’re using now.
Natural Supplements for Plaque Psoriasis
Probiotics
Anybody with an autoimmune disorder should be on probiotics. They are the live, active cultures found in foods like yogurt, kefir and fermented foods. Since gut and skin health are so closely related, it’s important to start on a good-quality probiotic of at least 5-10 billion CFUs (colony forming units). They may give you diarrhea at first. This is just your body’s way of cleaning out built-up toxins.
Krill Oil
Krill oil is similar to fish oil only it’s stronger and doesn’t go rancid as fast. The omega-3 fatty acids found in krill oil can reduce the chronic inflammation associated with plaque psoriasis and support your immune system.
Vitamin D3
If you tend to avoid the sun because of your flare-ups, you need to get on a vitamin D3 supplement to compensate. To get the most benefit, start with 1,000 IUs (international units) each day and work up to 4,000 IUs.
Soothing Topical Treatments
Sea Salt
Immersing yourself in a sea salt bath is a soothing way to dry out the red, scaly patches caused by plaque psoriasis.
Epsom Salt
Sinking into an Epsom salt bath will not only relieve the itch and burn, it will naturally draw toxins from your body and help you feel relaxed. (If you are pregnant, diabetic or allergic to sulfur, you should not use Epsom salt.)
Calendula
Calendula is a natural homeopathic remedy that can be applied to the skin to relieve itching and pain.
Vitamin E
Natural vitamin E oil can work to sooth irritation and prevent scarring.
If you’re currently taking prescription medication, be sure to consult your doctor before starting natural supplements.
If you’re embarrassed, frustrated and in pain from your plaque psoriasis, you’re not alone. These natural treatments can help you feel better in no time.