Psoriasis is a chronic, non-contagious inflammatory skin condition that results from the hyperproliferation of epidermal keratinocytes, leading to distinctive skin rashes. These rashes, which can take the form of scales, silvery plaques, or reddish patches, can appear on various parts of the body, including the scalp, armpits, elbows, hands, knees, and feet.
What Causes Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic condition primarily classified as an autoimmune disease. This means that the immune system, which typically defends the body against infections and illnesses, mistakenly targets the body’s own cells—in this case, skin cells. While the exact cause of psoriasis remains unclear, researchers believe that a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors contribute to its development and flare-ups. Here some factors causing psoriasis:
Genetic Predisposition Psoriasis often runs in families, indicating a strong genetic component. Researchers have identified certain genes associated with psoriasis, particularly those involved in immune function. However, not everyone with these genes will develop the condition, suggesting that additional factors are necessary for it to manifest.
Immune System Dysfunction In individuals with psoriasis, an overactive immune system triggers inflammation in the skin, accelerating the production of skin cells. While typical skin cells are replaced every 28-30 days, the turnover in psoriasis can occur in as few as 3-5 days, leading to the buildup of skin cells and the formation of characteristic plaques and scales.
Environmental Factors Various environmental factors can activate or worsen psoriasis symptoms, especially in those with a genetic predisposition. These include emotional stress, smoking, alcohol consumption, sunburn and skin injuries.
Infections Certain infections, particularly streptococcal throat infections, are linked to psoriasis flare-ups. These infections can stimulate the immune system and, in some cases, lead to a sudden onset of guttate psoriasis—a form that appears as small, drop-shaped lesions on the skin.
Other Factors Some medications, such as lithium, antimalarial drugs, and beta-blockers, may trigger or worsen psoriasis. Additionally, other factors, such as hormonal changes and certain weather conditions (especially cold, dry weather), can also influence psoriasis activity.
Natural Remedies for Psoriasis
While psoriasis cannot be cured, its symptoms can be managed. Natural remedies, while not suitable for acute phases, can help alleviate symptoms and improve the quality of life for those living with the condition. These remedies often come in the form of balms, creams, ointments, and gels designed for topical use.
These natural products should contain active ingredients that promote antioxidant, re-epithelizing, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic activities. They should also contain oils or waxes that offer emollient and protective actions to soften the skin.
Examples of Natural Remedies
Several natural ingredients are known to help alleviate the symptoms of psoriasis. Here are a few examples:
Aloe Vera Gel Aloe vera is rich in polysaccharides that promote re-epithelizing action. It helps decrease skin dehydration and preserves the skin's water content.
Propolis This bee product contains bio-molecules of flavonoid derivation, promoting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, re-epithelizing, and antiseptic action. However, it's potentially allergenic.
Grapefruit Seed Extract This extract is rich in phenols and flavonoids with antioxidant activity. It also contains ceramides that act as anti-inflammatory agents.
Macadamia and Jojoba Oils These oils offer emollient, protective, and antioxidant properties. They prevent inflammation and nourish the skin.
Squalene Found naturally in rice bran, olives, and wheat germ, squalene promotes skin tissue metabolism and supports the eudermic and re-epithelizing activity of creams.
Salicylic Acid Extracted from almonds and willow, salicylic acid has a keratolytic action when applied topically.
Burdock Its terpene sulfured and phenolic components give anti-inflammatory properties and improve skin perspiration.
Pineapple Pineapple contains bromelain, a proteolytic enzyme that promotes anti-inflammatory activity and aids skin re-epithelialization.
Centella Its phytocomplex of triterpenoid saponins tones the peripheral venous microcirculation, stimulating circulation.
Zinc Oxide It has notable adsorbent properties, reduces excessive perspiration of the skin, and limits suppuration.
It's important to note that these natural remedies should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Self-diagnosis and do-it-yourself treatments should be avoided.
