Skin Problems

Skin Ailments Such as Psoriasis & Eczema

PSORIASIS

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a persistent skin disease that got its name from the Greek word for “itch.” The skin becomes inflamed, producing red, thickened areas with silvery scales; most often on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back.

What is the cause for Psoriasis? What are its symptoms?

It is caused due to abnormal increase in the epidermal proliferation due to excessive division of cells in the basal layer and shorter cell cycle time. The course of the disease is unpredictable; the disease is known to be a chronic one with exacerbations and remissions. People often notice new spots 10 to 14 days after the skin is cut, scratched, rubbed, or severely sunburned. Psoriasis can also be activated by infections, such as strep throat, and by certain medicines. Flare-ups sometimes occur in the winter, as a result of dry skin and lack of sunlight. The basic cause for the disease, however, remains unknown.

How can Homeopathy Help?

Homeopathic treatment of psoriasis does not advocate the use of creams, shampoos, lotions and ointments. Usually, the treatment involves detailed case history and prescription of a medicine to be taken orally. The results are slow, but sure, and vary from case to case. In case complications like bone abnormalities have occurred, limited relief can be offered for the joints, but skin troubles are lessened. Treatment can take from a few months to a few years, depending on the intensity of the ailment, but relief is almost immediate.

ECZEMA

What is Eczema?

Eczema is a recurring, non-contagious, inflammatory skin condition affecting approximately 10 – 20 percent of the world population. It is characterized by red, dry and itchy rash in mild forms; and cracked, bleeding and oozing skin in severe forms. The condition usually flares and subsides for no apparent cause.

What are the symptoms of Eczema?

• Dry, red, moderate-to-extremely itchy patches on the skin
• Common areas affected in infants are: forehead, cheeks, forearms, legs, scalp, and neck. In children and adults, areas affected are usually the face, neck, and the insides of the elbows, knees, and ankles. In some people, eczema may ooze and in others the rash may appear more scaly and dry.
• Chronic scratching causes the skin to blacken and thickens, also known as ‘Lichenification’

How can Homeopathy help Eczema?

The most common forms of treatment (other than Homeopathy) which suppress the condition without any long-term advantages are the topical and oral corticosteroids, Antihistamines, Antibiotics and wet bandaging.

From the homeopathic point of view, the suppression of skin eruptions (especially with cortisone or other drugs) can lead to deeper health problems. Homeopathic and herbal remedies can be soothing during flare-ups—but for deeper treatment, a constitutional remedy should be chosen by an experienced practitioner, to fit a person on many levels, and bring the body into better balance.