Herbs for Psoriasis
Answered by: Susan Eagles
Question from: Raymond
Posted on: May 27, 1998

I am interested in any herb that will help psoriasis.

Psoriasis is a skin disease causing red, scaly plaques. The cause is unknown, but it is often related to stress and emotional state. Herbs can help to provide relaxation and to clear the blood of impurities by supporting the liver, adrenal glands, the intestine and the lymphatic system. Sunlight and sea bathing are helpful treatments. Relaxation exercises such as meditation, Yoga and Tai Chi can help bring the emotional state into balance.

Where the nerves need support, St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) and Oats (Avena sativa) will help. In anxiety, Valerian is recommended. Chamomile tea is relaxing and anti-inflammatory. To provide support for elimination of toxins, Oregon Grape (Berberis aquifolium) supports the intestinal tract and the liver, Red Clover (Trifolium pratense) supports the adrenal glands, Cleavers (Galium aparine) supports lymphatic function, Burdock (Arctium lappa) is a blood cleanser and diuretic and Dandelion root supports the liver.

Diet is important in clearing skin diseases in reducing toxins and providing nutrition to the skin. A low fat, low salt, dairy free, sugar free diet that includes lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, and essential fatty acids from fish (especially salmon, trout, cod, halibut), soy products, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, flaxseed and pumpkin seeds. Supplementation of the diet with flax seed oil, evening primrose oil or fish oils is recommended. Nuts and alcohol can aggravate the condition.

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