PSORIASIS VULGARIS

INTRODUCTION:

Psoriasis vulgaris is a chronic and often debilitating autoimmune disease that affects millions of people world wide. It is characterized by thick, scaly, red and sometimes painful patches on the skin, and has a significant impact on a person’s quality of life, both physically and emotionally.

CAUSES:

Psoriasis is a complex condition and its exact causes are still not fully understood. Research has identified several factors that contribute to its development.

Genetics
Environmental trigger
Hormonal changes
Poor gut health
Poor lifestyle factors

TYPES OF PSORIASIS:

Plaque psoriasis
Guttate psoriasis
Inverse psoriasis
Pustular psoriasis
Erythrodermic psoriasis
Psoriatic arthritis.
Scalp psoriasis.
Palmoplantar psoriasis.

SYMPTOMS OF PSORIAIS:

Thick, silvery-white scales or crust on the skin
Dry, cracked skin
Itchy, painful skin
Cracked or bleeding skin
Scalp irritation

CONVENTIONAL TREATMENT FOR PSORIASIS

Topical treatments: steroid creams, salicylic acid
Phototherapy: narrowband UVB therapy, excimer laser therapy
Systemic treatments: cyclosporine, methotrexate

NATUROPATHY AND YOGA TREATMENTS

Naturopathy plays a vital role in managing psoriasis by addressing four key aspects:

Reducing inflammation through anti-inflammatory diets
Improving gut health by promoting a balanced gut microbiome and by repairing intestinal permeability
Supporting liver detoxification to eliminate toxins and excess hormones
Reducing oxidative stress through antioxidant rich food

Thereby alleviating symptoms and promoting skin health.

ACUPUNCTURE:

Acupuncture helps in psoriasis by modulating various cellular mechanisms, including

Neurogenic inflammation inhibition: acupuncture inhibits the release of neuropeptides, like substance P, which contributes to neurogenic inflammation in psoriasis
Stress response reduction: acupuncture activates the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing stress and promoting relaxation, which can help to alleviate psoriasis symptoms
Oxidative stress reduction: acupuncture increases antioxidant activity, reducing oxidative stress and cell damage in psoriasis

BANANA LEAF BATH:

Banana leaf bath has been traditionally used in Naturopathic medicine for various skin conditions, including psoriasis. Evidence based study suggests that the bioactive compounds present in banana leaves, such as phenolic acids, flavonoids, and alkaloids, may contribute to its therapeutic effects. These compounds inhibit inflammatory mediators such as TNF-alpha and IL-1beta, which are elevated in psoriasis and suppress keratinocyte proliferation and differentiation, reducing skin scaling and thickness.

DIETARY MANAGEMENT:

Dietary management plays a crucial role in psoriasis treatment, A diet rich in antioxidants, such as polyphenols and omega 3 fatty acids, helps to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation by neutralizing free radicals and inhibiting proinflammatory cytokines. omega 3 fatty acids, in particular have been shown to suppress the production of leukotriene B4, a pro inflammatory mediator involved in psoriasis pathogenesis. Overall, a well-planned diet can modulate the immune response, reduce inflammation, and alleviate psoriasis symptoms by targeting key cellular mechanism.

YOGA THERAPY:

Yoga therapy offers a holistic approach to manage psoriasis, combining physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation to reduce symptoms and improve overall well-being.

Yogasanas:

Shavasana, makarasana, sarvangasana, padmasana, yoga-mudra

Pranayama:

Kapalbhati, anulom-vilom pranayama, bhastrika

Meditation:

Breath awareness, om meditation