Psoriasis is a condition in which the body produces skin cells too quickly. The skin cells surface and build up, forming red patches which may look scaly. The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown. However, it is thought that the immune system is responsible and causes the skin condition when it mistakes healthy cells for harmful substances. Genetics, diet and stress are also major factors of psoriasis.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for psoriasis but there are many psoriasis treatments available. For severe cases of psoriasis in which arthritis has occurred or the entire body is affected, then a prescription treatment is usually necessary. However, many people have mild forms of the disease and simple home remedies for psoriasis will suffice.
Diet and Psoriasis Prevention
The best natural psoriasis treatment is to avoid the condition completely. You should avoid consuming any spicy foods or high amounts of sugar. Also, avoid foods which may be hard to digest such as fatty meats. When foods are hard to digest, toxins can be released into the body and build up. Since toxins are partially excreted through skin cells, it could cause psoriasis outbreaks. You should maintain a healthy diet which is rich in fiber. Also, be sure to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
Avoid drinking alcohol as this is closely linked to psoriasis. Also, you should avoid consuming a lot of salt because this can lead to inflammation. Do not bath too frequently because it may dehydrate your skin, causing the dead skin cells of psoriasis to become even more scale-like.
Psoriasis Herbal Treatment
Once you have an outbreak of psoriasis, you can help heal it quickly using herbal treatments. Most of these types of home remedies for psoriasis are applied directly to the infected area. Here are some mixtures which you can make at home easily:
• Oatmeal: Prepare oatmeal in the same manner you would as for eating. Make sure that the oatmeal does not have any additional flavors in it. Then, apply the oatmeal to the infected area and leave for about 20 minutes. You can also add oatmeal to a warm bath. Because oatmeal is textured, it can be rubbed over pre-soaked scales to help in removal without damaging the skin underneath.
• Cabbage or Banana Leaves: Cabbage is one of the oldest psoriasis herbal treatments known. All you need to do is clean the outer-most leaf of a cabbage head. Then, after the leaf is thoroughly dry, apply it over the infected area. Cover this with a cloth to keep the cabbage leaf in place for about 20 minutes. Repeat several times daily. Alternatively, you can apply a banana leaf on the infected area.
• Buttermilk: Drink fresh buttermilk from curd several times a day. This helps to clean toxins from the body, improve digestion, and is effective as a natural psoriasis treatment.