Psoriasis is the name given to a chronic autoimmune disorder showing its effects on the skin. The misdirected immune system sends faulty signals to accelerate the growth rate of skin cells. This result in psoriasis or development of reddish or pinkish patches of thick raised dry skin. If one tries to scrape out the dry flakes, one may notice tiny blood stains on the skin. Psoriasis can affect people of all age groups and sexes, but a growing incidence of the disorder can be perceived among early adults. Generally the skin at the elbow, knees, scalp, groin etc are affected by psoriasis. In most cases, psoriasis is mild; but if it is severe, it may cause much social embarrassment and emotional distress for the patient.
Psoriasis is seen to run in the family, but the exact cause of psoriasis is still a matter of debate. Winters are said to worsen psoriasis while summer months and exposure to sun can improve the condition. Areas subject to abrasions or constant rubbing are susceptible to psoriasis attack. Psoriasis may be classified as follows:
1. Psoriasis vulgaris (This is the common type).
2. Gullate psoriasis (This looks like tiny droplets).
3. Inverse psoriasis (This occurs in the folds of buttocks, navel, underarms etc).
4. Pustular psoriasis (This is characterized by pus-filled yellowish blisters).
5. Palmoplantar psoriasis (This type occurs in the palms and soles).
Some other factors other than heredity that tend to influence the development of psoriasis could be injury to skin, infections, seasonal changes and improper metabolism of amino acids and proteins.
Home Remedies
1. Take hot Epsom salt bath followed by a generous application of olive oil. This is beneficial in treating psoriasis.
2. Regular sea water bath also helps a lot.
3. Apply moist cabbage leaf compress on the psoriasis affected skin. This takes good care of skin and solves the problem.
4. Application of mud pack removes toxins from the affected skin and heals psoriasis.
5. Mix 1 teaspoon lime juice in to a cup of bitter gourd juice, and take in empty stomach in the morning. This treats psoriasis effectively.
6. Apply a combination of Aloe Vera gel and garlic oil on the affected skin. This expedites the healing process.
7. Apply cashew nut oil on the affected skin and keep overnight. In the morning, wash skin thoroughly. This is an effective home remedy for psoriasis.
8. Make a lotion by mixing 1 teaspoon castor oil and 1 teaspoon wheat germ oil. Put the mixture in to a cup of sunflower oil and shake well. Rub the lotion on affected skin to get relief.
9. Put 4 marigold heads in to vessel containing 4 cups water and boil for 2 minutes. Strain the solution and let it cool. Wash affected skin with this solution to get good results.
10. In to 1 cup of olive oil, add 2 drops of calendula oil and 1 drop of oregano oil. Apply the mixture on affected skin. This is a useful psoriasis remedy.
11. Expose yourself to the sun as much as possible.
Read about effective Home Remedies for Psoriasis. Also know about Home Remedies for Rheumatism.
