Psoriasis

In psoriasis the skin cells multiply at a rate approximately 1000 times faster than normal, healthy cells.

There is no corresponding increase in the rate at which cells are shed, causing a build-up which appears silvery and raised. The underlying issue may be related to an imbalance in two compounds that governs the rate at which cells multiply and are sloughed off, called cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and cyclic guanidine monophosphate (cGMP).

Hereditary factors are known to be involved in psoriasis, and there is a strong tendency for the condition to run in families. It is not contagious.

Possible triggers for psoriasis attacks include stress, shock, infection, and excessive alcohol intake.

From a naturopathic perspective, other factors that may contribute include immune dysfunction, poor bowel function, sluggish liver function, and an inability to completely digest proteins.

An imbalance of essential fatty acids (for example, high consumption of saturated animal fats ) has also been implicated.

• High doses of omega-3 oils from fish may be beneficial in psoriasis as abnormalities of essential fatty acids may be a contributing factor to the condition. A suitable dose for adults is 1.8 g of EPA and 1.2 g of DHA per day.
• Low levels of vitamin A and zinc are common in patients with psoriasis, and it may be useful to take supplements. Cod liver oil is a rich natural source of vitamin A, and helps maintain and support healthy skin. 
• Improving liver and bowel function may help in the treatment and prevention of psoriasis. Milk thistle aids normal liver function and supports the regeneration of liver cells. It has traditionally been used to support detoxification.
• In Western herbal medicine, bitter tasting herbs such as gentian and dandelion root are traditionally regarded as tonic herbs for the digestive system. It is believed that when their bitter flavours are sensed by the tastebuds, a reflex action stimulates the production of saliva and digestive juices, enhancing the functioning of the stomach, liver, gall bladder and bowel and aiding symptoms of poor digestion, such as nausea, indigestion and poor appetite.
  

• Keeping your skin well moisturised can reduce the tendency to scratch the dry patches of psoriasis.
• Soap has drying properties and is best avoided. Use an unscented soap substitute instead. 
• Wear protective gloves when your skin is in contact with chemicals (for example dishwashing detergent), or if you are prone to scratching in your sleep.
• Keeping your fingernails short can also reduce potential damage from scratching.
• Ultraviolet light therapy may be recommended by your healthcare professional.
• Natural therapists advise people with psoriasis to follow a diet that helps keep the digestive system healthy. A high fibre intake is particularly important, and promotes detoxification.
• At the same time, avoid alcohol (which can trigger psoriasis attacks) and fried foods and saturated animal fats (which may contribute to essential fatty acid imbalance).  Try to include plenty of fish in your diet to take advantage of the anti-inflammatory omega-3 fats they contain.
  

• Severe cases of psoriasis require medical management. Talk to your doctor for more information, especially if your symptoms are accompanied by joint pain.