Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes red, itchy, and scaly patches on the skin. It is a chronic condition and cannot be cured. However, homeopathic medicines may help manage the flare-ups. Scroll down to learn more.
Psoriasis – A Brief
Psoriasis is a relatively common skin condition. Its prevalence varies from 0 to 11.8 % among different populations. Approximately three percent of people in the United States and up to 2.8 percent in India deal with this condition that causes the skin to inflame, thicken and get a scaly appearance (1). People suffering from psoriasis are often embarrassed by their skin condition besides being plagued by a variety of symptoms, such as pain, itching, cracked, broken skin, painful and inflamed joints, and blisters filled with pus. These symptoms can lead the person to turn into a recluse, shun social gatherings, get depressed and even have suicidal thoughts (2). According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD), 7.5 million Americans have psoriasis. It is estimated that 80% experience mild to moderate psoriasis, while 20% experience moderate to severe psoriasis that affects more than 5% of their bodies. It is further estimated that 80% to 90% of people with psoriasis experience plaque psoriasis (raised red skin with silver-white scales).
Conventional Treatment For Psoriasis
Psoriasis can affect the face, scalp, chest, elbows, fingernails, genitals, toenails, knees, soles, lower back, and legs. Since it is an autoimmune disorder, only the symptoms can be treated and not the disease itself. Conventional medicine uses a combination of exercise and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)i A class of drugs that are used in the treatment of swelling and joint pain associated with psoriasis. . However, as the disease progresses, the potency of the medications also increases. It is not unheard of for psoriasis patients to be prescribed corticosteroidsi A type of medication that is used to treat the itchiness and inflammation associated with psoriasis. and anti-malarial medications. This can result in a lot of undesirable and unpleasant side effects (3). That is why more and more people are turning towards homeopathy to treat psoriasis.
Psoriasis Treatment In Homeopathy
Homeopathy has been able to successfully treat many diseases and conditions that conventional medicine has not been able to. One such condition is psoriasis. There are several homeopathic medicines that can easily bring relief to patients with this condition and with regular use, their skin can clear up and not show a trace of the lesions or scaliness. This makes homeopathy treatments for skin problems, like psoriasis, a popular choice among those looking for a more natural approach. Homeopathy is like a natural therapy which adopts a holistic view when treating patients, and that is why there are several remedies. Some of the homeopathic treatments for psoriasis are as follows:
1. Carcinosin
This homeopathy remedy is for patients who get psoriasis due to genetics. It is a potent and effective medication that is made from cancerous tissue. As horrible as this may sound, carcinosin is the best homeopathic medicine for people who have psoriasis running in their family. It also is prescribed for patients who are emotionally fragile.
2. Kali Arsenicum
This psoriasis homeopathic treatment is prescribed to patients who suffer from severe itching, especially in warm conditions. It also is prescribed to those who have cuts and oozing lesions along the inner side of the elbow and behind the knees. Kali Arsenicum is the homeopathic treatment for people suffering from psoriatic arthritis.
3. Graphites
When it comes to managing psoriasis, this is one homeopathy treatment that cannot be ignored. It helps treat the persistent dryness of the skin, as well as hardened, thick and rough skin. It can be used to treat psoriasis on the nails, behind the ears and in the groin region, neck, and the bend of elbows and knees. Usually, this remedy is prescribed to obese patients and those who suffer from constipation and/or are sensitive to cold temperatures.
4. Mezereum
This medication is especially prepared using the bark of the spurge olive tree, also known as mezereum. This medication is especially effective and can treat skin and scalp psoriasis, making it one of the notable remedies for scalp psoriasis. This is the same homeopathic remedy that is used to treat eczemai Also known as atopic dermatitis, a skin chronic disease that causes dry, cracked, inflamed, and itchy skin. as well.
5. Kali Sulphuricum
This homeopathy treatment for psoriasis is made using potassium sulfate. After proper potentization, this medication can prove to be a good treatment for oozing and infected psoriatic lesions. Usually, Kali Sulphuricum is prescribed to patients who have papules accompanied by severe itching.
6. Arsenic Album
This remedy is for psoriatic patients who experience an improvement in their condition under warm conditions and a worsening of the psoriasis in cold and wet conditions.
7. Apis Mellifica
This medication is used for eruptions that feel hot and dry and yet are sensitive to touch. Usually, patients with such eruptions feel better after taking a cold bath, and experience a worsening of their condition in the heat.
8. Calendula
Many times, homeopathic doctors can prescribe calendula for psoriasis. While this is not a remedy, it can soothe the inflammation that psoriasis causes (4). Homeopathy differs from allopathic medicine, which is often considered more effective for treating issues like psoriasis. Check out the next section to understand the basic difference between the two approaches before choosing one.
Homeopathy Vs. Allopathy
Homeopathy focuses on holistic healing and is often preferred for chronic conditions, but it may not provide rapid results for acute problems. Allopathy, on the other hand, is the conventional medical approach, that primarily uses medications that counteract the symptoms or underlying causes of a disease. It offers immediate relief for acute conditions, and can effectively manage many chronic diseases. Allopathy is firmly grounded in scientific research and evidence-based treatments, homeopathy remains more controversial, with many treatments considered unproven by mainstream medicine. Both systems have their strengths and limitations. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on individual preferences, beliefs, and the nature of the health issue. What is the recommended frequency and duration of homeopathic treatments for psoriasis? Depending on the patient’s profile and condition, the treatment may range from taking medicines once a week to continuous nursing for weeks or months. The practitioner’s approach to managing the disorder, its severity, and the patient’s response to the treatment are some factors that determine the duration. Are there any lifestyle changes or dietary modifications recommended for individuals undergoing homeopathic treatment for psoriasis? Following a healthy balanced diet with a regimen of exercise may help manage the disorder better. Your healthcare practitioner may recommend staying hydrated, keeping the immune system strong, keeping your stress levels in control, and avoiding triggers for psoriasis like alcohol and spicy food. Adopting a specific psoriasis diet, focusing on anti-inflammatory and nutrient-rich foods, can also support your overall treatment plan. Can homeopathic treatments for psoriasis be used in conjunction with traditional medical treatments? There is a lack of scientific evidence supporting the combined use of homeopathic and traditional medical treatment. You should consult your homeopathic practitioner and your healthcare provider to develop an effective plan to manage your psoriasis effectively. What is the success rate of homeopathic treatments for psoriasis, and is it a permanent cure? In small controlled trials, homeopathic treatments have shown better management of psoriasis and improved overall well-being (6). However, it depends on several factors like the severity of the condition, the practitioner’s methods, and the patient’s response to the treatment. Large-scale studies can give a clearer success rate of the treatment method in the future. Are there any long-term benefits associated with homeopathy treatments for psoriasis? A two-year observational study on the effect of homeopathic treatment on psoriasis patients found that it helps improve the patient’s quality of life and reduce the symptoms. It also reduced the dependence on conventional treatments and health service use (7). Embark on a journey towards holistic healing with the help of homeopathic treatment for psoriasis. Watch this video and uncover natural remedies to empower yourself with relevant knowledge for healthier skin.
