Regardless of extensive research, the exact cause of psoriasis is not yet fully understood; all the same, scientists believe psoriasis is a result of several factors, which include environmental triggers, genetics, and the immune system.
The Genetic Link
It is possible for psoriasis to be passed on through the family since as
research shows, the probability of a genetic link for psoriasis is
high. One out of every three people with psoriasis have reported having
relations with psoriasis. Researchers say up to ten percent of the
general population might inherit one or more genes predisposing them to
psoriasis although only about two to three percent of people with the
psoriasis gene end up developing the disease.
Environmental Triggers
Specific environmental factors may trigger psoriasis genes, causing the
activation of the disease. Environmental triggers vary for every
individual, and the possible causes for the development of psoriasis in
an individual may have zero effects on another person. Environmental
triggers include; stress, infections, such as thrush, and skin injuries.
The immune system and psoriasis
The immune system is should protect the body from intruding cells such
as bacteria, but at times, the immune system mistakes healthy cells for
intruders and attacks these cells. Psoriasis makes the immune system
overactive creating inflammation inside the body, causing the symptoms
we see on the skin. The immune system produces more than normal healthy
cells and these excess cells are then pushed to the skin surface too
quickly. It normally takes about a month for skin cells to cycle
although the body, but it takes days in psoriasis cases. Since the body
cannot rapidly shed skin cell, the excess cell builds up on the skin
surface.
Signs and symptoms
Symptoms and signs of psoriasis may vary from individual to another. Common signs and symptoms include but are not limited to;
• Dry and cracked skin that might bleed
• Red patches of skin usually covered in silvery scales
• Soreness, itching, or a burning sensation
• Small scaling spots, common in children
• Pitted, thickened or ridged nails
• Swollen and stiff joints
Psoriasis patches range from major eruptions to a few spots of scaling similar to dandruff, covering large areas. Most of the psoriasis types go through cycles, starting from a flare for a few weeks and then subsiding for a while or going into complete remission. Psoriasis exists in several different types including; plaque psoriasis, nail psoriasis, scalp psoriasis, guttate psoriasis, inverse psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, erythrodermic psoriasis, and pustular psoriasis.
Herbal or Natural Remedies
Consultation with your doctor before taking any form of herbal
medication is necessary, especially while under any other type of
medication. Some herbal remedies cause perilous interactions with other
medications. You should also avoid taking herbal remedies if you have a
pre-existing medical condition such as high blood pressure or diabetes
or when pregnant or breastfeeding.
Herbal or natural remedies that might help with the prevention and long-term treatment of psoriasis include and are not limited to;
Oregon grape (Mahonia Aquifolium)
Mahonia aquifolium is a powerful antimicrobial herb that plays a
significant role in our immune responses. Research show, applying cream
that contains about ten percent (10%) mahonia aquifolium is quite useful
for the treatment of mild to moderate psoriasis. Since mahonia
aquifolium is an alkaloid, it should only be used as cream unless under
the supervision of a physician.
Aloe Vera
Some research shows that sap from the Aloe Vera plant, when applied to
the skin for up to thrice a day, can help in reducing the scaling and
redness associated with psoriasis. Ideal creams contain about 0.5% aloe.
The benefits of taking aloe in tablet form have not yet been proven
through any research and could, in turn, be harmful.
Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is from leaves of a plant native to Australia. Studies show
that tea tree oil has antiseptic qualities. For most people, using
herbal creams containing tea tree oil helps to relieve the scalp
psoriasis. However, some people may be allergic to tea tree oil.
Turmeric
Although research on the antioxidant and powerful anti-inflammatory
properties of turmeric is still on-going, some studies show curcumin, an
active ingredient of turmeric, has the ability to alter gene expression
and this is the reason turmeric is very useful in minimizing psoriasis
flares. Ideal creams contain about 1.5% turmeric.
Capsaicin
Capsaicin added to ointments and creams helps to block pain transmitting
nerve endings. Researches show that creams containing capsaicin assist
in reducing the inflammation, pain, scaling, and redness associated with
psoriasis. The long-term benefits of capsaicin are currently under
additional research which is needed to assess its long-term benefits and
safety. Capsaicin ointment may cause a burning sensation to some people
when applied.
Conclusion
Non-herbal medication for psoriasis consists of too many side effects
making the herbal treatment a better option. Because of the dangers
posed by the oral consumption of most of the different herbal remedies
associated with the treatment of psoriasis, herbal creams are the better
alternative. The use of any herbal remedy should be in consultation
with your doctor.