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The exact cause of psoriasis is hotly debated, but it is believed to have a genetic component. Most researchers agree that the immune system is somehow mistakenly triggered, which speeds up the growth cycle of skin cells. A normal skin cell matures and falls off the body's surface in 28 to 30 days. But a psoriatic skin cell takes only three to four days to mature and move to the surface. Instead of falling off (shedding), the cells pile up and form the lesions.
How do Herbalists treat Psoriasis?
Herbal medicine works by treating the causes, triggers and symptoms identified during the consultation.
- The condition is essentially speeded up replication & division of cells therefore each prescription will include at least one anti-proliferative herb.
- Increased stress and anxiety have been identified as common triggers therefore, where appropriate prescriptions will include a herbal nervine to tone and strengthen the nervous system.
- An inappropriate response of the immune system has also been linked to Psoriasis therefore herbal tonics for the immune systems are often included in a prescription.
- The efficient working of the digestive and eliminatory systems are central to any herbal treatment of skin disorders therefore alteratives (agents used to improve the elimination of metabolic waste) and lymphatics are often prescribed.
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I've suffered from psoriasis on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet
and in the scalp for over 20 years - thick, scaling, itching skin, with deep
cracks. When I was desperate, drastic steroid treatment would
clear it for a few week, then it would come back with a vengeance.
While taking the first bottle of your herbal medicine, the
thick skin on palms and soles became thinner and more flexible. I used the
cream on my palm and pumiced every day.
I now use my foot
cream once a week, and I have had no cracks or large flakes with less itching in the scalp. My skin is almost normal and I am still
only on my second bottle of the medicine.
Many thanks. SG, Skipton
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Whilst it is important to state that there are no guarantees, to date, patients have noticed a reduction in specific symptoms after 2 weeks (usually a reduction in the level of ‘itch’), the size and severity of plaques have started to reduce after 4 weeks.
The short answer is yes. Many of my patients are taking medicine prescribed both by their GP and myself. However for safety reasons herbal medicine should only be used in a complementary manner under the direction of a qualified practitioner. The approach, (or combination of approaches) and specific herbs chosen will be determined by the needs of the individual patient.
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“I have suffered with psoriasis of the scalp and ears for many years. I have been using the treatments for four months and have experienced a marked and sustained improvement. It took a couple of weeks for the treatment to take effect, and my psoriasis has not completely disappeared but several affected areas have cleared entirely and show no signs of returning. Those areas that remain are smaller and the itchiness has all but disappeared.”
Carol C. Northwich, Cheshire.
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