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The Eclectic Physician
Natural Health Care
by Beth Burch N.D.
Psoriasis-
Affects about 1-2% of people. Multifactorial cause- genetic, multiple metabolic
skin abnormalities which result in a more frequent turnover of skin cells,
and environmental, including trauma. Plaque-like lesions with a salmon-red
color, silvery scaling and sharp margins. Scratching increases the scaling.
Can involve any area of the body, but elbows and knees are most often affected.
It can also affect the nails. Only about 30% of psoriasis patients have
itching and about 7% have an arthritis. Elimination of food allergies,
increasing fiber and intake of cold water fish such as salmon. A good vitamin
mineral supplement is indicated but Vitamin C and biotin intake should
be limited to 1000 mg/day and 50 mcg/ day respectively. Avoid herbs that
contain inulin such as Echinacea, Dandelion, Burdock and Jerusalem artichokes.
Also avoid Ginseng as it will exacerbate the condition. Sunlight can be
helpful.
Bitter Melon ripe fruit-has been shown to inhibit the rapid skin
proliferation
Liquid extract- 1/2 teaspoon twice a day
Dry herb in capsule- 300-500 mg twice a day
Milk Thistle-effective
in the treatment of psoriasis by normalizing skin proliferation.
Standardized extract (70-80%silymarin)- 100 mg- 250 mg three times
a day.
Sarsaparilla- shown in one study to improve psoriasis in 62%
of patients and completely clear it in 18%.
Liquid extract- 2 teaspoons three times a day
Dry herb in capsules- 1000 mg three times a day
Concentrated extract (4:1)- 250 mg three times a day
Evening Primrose Oil or Black Current Oil-these essential
fatty acids can be used internally and applied topically to the lesions.
Capsules- 1-2 two or three times a day
* The information presented in this web site is intended to inform and educate.
It is not intended replace a qualified medical practitioner to diagnose or treat medical conditions.
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