Many psoriasis sufferers seek holistic approaches that address their complete being rather than depending primarily on conventional therapies like lotions and medications. In this article we will explore how dietary and nutritional adjustments, stress reduction techniques, and natural remedies may all be used to treat psoriasis symptoms holistically.

 

 

Key Takeaways

 

• Psoriasis can have significant emotional effects, including worry, despair, and low self-esteem, and can benefit from therapy and counseling.

 

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of therapy that can help identify and change unhelpful thought patterns that affect emotions and behavior related to psoriasis.

 

• Talk therapy and support groups can provide a safe and supportive environment for people to discuss their experiences and feelings related to psoriasis.

 

• Finding a therapist or counselor with expertise in chronic illnesses or skin issues is important for tailored support in managing the unique challenges of living with psoriasis.

 

• Coping strategies and stress-management techniques learned in therapy and counseling can help reduce overall stress levels and improve psoriasis symptoms.

 

• Natural remedies such as aloe vera, tea tree oil, turmeric, apple cider vinegar, omega-3 fatty acids, and oatmeal baths can be used to manage the severity of psoriasis flare-ups and improve skin health.

 

• Conventional treatments for psoriasis may include topical creams and ointments, light therapy, and systemic medications, and should be discussed with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate approach.

 

 

Table of Contents

• Holistic Approach to Psoriasis
• Diet and Nutrition
• Stress Management
• Natural Remedies
• Traditional Treatments
• FAQ’s
• Conclusion

 

Holistic Approach to Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a complicated ailment that needs a thorough and customized approach to therapy.

 

By treating the underlying causes of the ailment and encouraging general well-being, holistic medicine aims to treat the full person, not just the symptoms.

 

A thoughtful strategy for treating psoriasis can raise your standard of living, help manage the signs, and reduce swelling.

 

Diet and Nutrition

 

In managing psoriasis, diet is essential. While certain foods might reduce inflammation and support recovery, others can cause inflammation and exacerbate symptoms.

 

The symptoms of psoriasis can be controlled with a balanced diet high in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein. Fatty fish, nuts, seeds, and leafy greens are some of the healthiest meals for those with psoriasis.

 

Probiotics, vitamin D, and fish oil supplements may also be beneficial. Moreover, maintaining good gut health and being hydrated helps lessen the symptoms of psoriasis.

 

 

• The Role of Diet in Psoriasis
• Foods to Avoid or Consume
• Supplements for Psoriasis
• Importance of Hydration and Gut Health

 

The Role of Diet in Psoriasis

 

The role between diet and psoriasis is intricate and multifaceted. There is no one diet that works for everyone with psoriasis, even while several foods and nutrients have been demonstrated to aid with symptom control and inflammation reduction.

 

3 ways in which diet can affect psoriasis:

 

1. Inflammation: Certain foods can trigger inflammation in the body, which can exacerbate psoriasis symptoms. This includes foods high in sugar, processed foods, and saturated fats.

 

2. Immune function: Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition, which means the immune system is overactive and attacks healthy tissue. A healthy diet can support immune function and help reduce the severity of psoriasis symptoms. This includes eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.

 

3. Gut health: There is a strong connection between gut health and psoriasis. A healthy gut can help reduce inflammation in the body and support immune function. Eating a diet high in fiber and fermented foods can promote gut health.

 

 

Dietary recommendations for managing psoriasis:

 

• Eat a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods: This includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds.

 

• Antioxidants: Antioxidants such as vitamin C and E can help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. Foods rich in antioxidants include berries, citrus fruits, leafy greens, and nuts.

 

• Avoid trigger foods: This includes processed foods, sugar, saturated fats, and alcohol.

 

• Incorporate healthy fats: Omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel, have been shown to reduce inflammation and improve skin health. Flaxseeds, and chia seeds have also been shown to reduce inflammation in the body.

 

• Consider a gluten-free diet: Some people with psoriasis have found relief by eliminating gluten from their diet.

 

• Consume probiotics: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that live in the gut and can help to improve digestive health. A healthy gut microbiome has been linked to a reduction in inflammation and a decrease in psoriasis symptoms.Probiotics are found in fermented foods like yogurt and kefir.

 

• Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated is important for overall health, and can also help keep skin hydrated and reduce inflammation.

 

Despite the fact that nutrition can assist manage psoriasis, it cannot replace medical treatment. To develop your own unique treatment plan, it is essential to work with a healthcare practitioner.

 

Foods to Avoid or Consume

 

Diet and nutrition play an essential role in managing psoriasis symptoms. Some foods can trigger inflammation and worsen symptoms, while others can reduce inflammation and promote skin health.

 

Tips on what to avoid or consume:

 

Foods to Avoid:

 

• Processed foods
• Red meat
• Dairy products
• Fried foods
• Sugar and high-fructose corn syrup
• Nightshade vegetables (tomatoes, eggplants, peppers, potatoes)

 

 

 

Foods to Consume:

 

• Fruits and vegetables (especially dark, leafy greens)
• Whole grains
• Lean proteins (such as fish and poultry)
• Nuts and seeds
• Anti-inflammatory foods (such as ginger, turmeric, and garlic)
• Omega-3 fatty acids (found in fatty fish like salmon)

 

 

 

Supplements for Psoriasis

 

You also have the option of using supplements to assist with psoriasis symptom treatment. Although they may aid with overall skin health and inflammation reduction, supplements shouldn't be used in place of prescription medication.

 

Some supplements that have been found to be effective include:

 

• Vitamin D: Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to psoriasis, so supplementing with this vitamin may help reduce symptoms.

 

• Fish oil: Fish oil supplements contain omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties.

 

• Probiotics: Gut health is linked to psoriasis, and probiotics can help promote a healthy gut microbiome.

 

• Zinc: Zinc plays a role in immune function, and supplementing with this mineral may help reduce inflammation.

 

 

Fish oil is one dietary supplement that has been proven to offer potential advantages for psoriasis. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in fish oil, and have anti-inflammatory qualities.

 

Supplemental fish oil may help decrease skin inflammation and improve psoriasis symptoms, according to studies.

 

 

Turmeric is a different supplement that could be beneficial. Turmeric, which is frequently used in Indian cooking, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory qualities.

 

According to several research, consuming supplements containing turmeric may help lower inflammation and the signs and symptoms of psoriasis.

 

Certain supplements may not be safe for some people, such as pregnant women or people with specific medical problems, and some may interact negatively with prescription drugs.

 

While supplements can be beneficial, they should only be used with a doctor's advice.

 

 

Importance of Hydration and Gut Health

 

 

It's crucial to keep the body hydrated to preserve overall health, and doing so may be helpful for those who have psoriasis.

 

Lack of water can cause inflammation in the body, which can worsen psoriasis symptoms.

 

Drinking enough water will assist the body remove toxins and decrease inflammation, which can help prevent psoriasis flare-ups.

 

 

Along with adequate hydration, gut health has a connection to psoriasis.

 

An unbalanced bacterial population in the stomach may cause inflammation throughout the body.

 

To combat this, individuals should concentrate on maintaining a healthy gut flora. Which will help control the symptoms of psoriasis.

 

A healthy diet rich in fiber is a great way to do this. As it helps to foster the growth of healthy gut bacteria and exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, thus promoting overall health.

 

Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes are all high in fiber and can aid in gut health. In addition, probiotics are beneficial bacteria that may help to restore balance to the microbiome.

 

These probiotics can be taken as a supplement or through fermented foods including yogurt, kefir, kimchi, and sauerkraut.

 

Both consuming adequate fluids and administering probiotics can be beneficial to a holistic psoriasis management plan.

 

Those who have psoriasis may find it helpful to drink a lot of water and eat foods rich in dietary fiber and healthy bacteria. Which can help to reduce inflammation and improve overall well-being.

 

Stress Management

 

Psoriasis flare-ups can be significantly exacerbated by stress. As a result, controlling stress is crucial to treating psoriasis. Stress-reduction methods, like exercise, yoga, meditation, and others,  can all be effective.

 

Regular exercise can also assist to lower inflammation, elevate mood, and enhance general well-being. Counseling or therapy may occasionally be beneficial for stress management and mental health.

 

• The Impact of Stress on Psoriasis
• Mindfulness and Meditation
• Yoga and Exercise
• Therapy and Counseling

 

 

The Impact of Stress on Psoriasis

 

Flare-ups frequently occur as a result of stress. Stress causes the body to create hormones like cortisol, which can worsen inflammation and cause psoriasis symptoms. So, a comprehensive approach to treating psoriasis must include reducing stress.

 

There are several techniques that can help reduce stress and promote relaxation, including:

 

1. Meditation: Meditation is a technique that involves focusing the mind on a specific object, thought, or activity to promote relaxation and reduce stress. Research has shown that regular meditation can help reduce stress and anxiety, which may help improve psoriasis symptoms.

 

2. Exercise: Exercise is another effective way to manage stress. Regular physical activity can help reduce cortisol levels and increase endorphins, which are natural mood-boosters. Exercise can also improve overall health, which can benefit individuals with psoriasis.

 

3. Deep breathing: Deep breathing exercises can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. One simple deep breathing technique is to inhale for four counts, hold for seven counts, and exhale for eight counts. Repeat this cycle several times to promote relaxation.

 

4. Mindfulness: Mindfulness involves focusing on the present moment without judgment. Practicing mindfulness can help reduce stress and anxiety, which may help improve psoriasis symptoms.

 

An integral part of controlling psoriasis holistically is reducing stress. Stress reduction and relaxation techniques including mindfulness, exercise, deep breathing, and meditation can assist with psoriasis symptoms.

 

Mindfulness and Meditation

 

Meditation and mindfulness are two methods for reducing psoriasis-related stress and anxiety.

 

These approaches center on the deliberate focus of one's thoughts on the current circumstance, permitting an individual to feel more secure and balanced.

 

Mindfulness encourages paying attention to the existing moment without criticizing yourself, which can be done through breathing exercises, body exploration, and other mindful movements.

 

Exercising mindfulness frequently can help people recognize their feelings and emotions better and gain the ability to manage them more skillfully.

 

Meditation entails concentrating the mind on a special item, concept, or task to help promote restfulness and alleviate stress.

 

 

 

There are different kinds of meditation, for instance, intense attention, unconditional compassion, and trance meditation.

 

Studies propose that mindfulness and meditation might be of use in controlling psoriasis.

 

Practices such as mindfulness and meditation were linked with a noteworthy decrease in the indications of psoriasis such as irritation and inflammation.

 

Moreover, those techniques may help people with psoriasis build a more constructive attitude toward their illness.

 

By concentrating on the immediate moment and tolerating their thoughts and emotions without criticism, individuals may be able to take better control of their psoriasis.

 

Individuals can learn to be more understanding and forgiving of themselves.

 

Mindfulness and meditation can be utilized as effective methods for addressing the tension and fear associated with psoriasis. These methods can help reduce swelling, improve mood, and encourage peace, possibly enhancing psoriasis warning signs.

 

 

Yoga and Exercise

 

Yoga and exercise are two great strategies to treat the symptoms of psoriasis since they may make you feel less stressed, and overall more healthy.

 

Yoga is a mind-body practice that combines physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation.

 

Yoga has been demonstrated to provide a variety of advantages, including lowering tension and anxiety, enhancing balance and flexibility, and encouraging relaxation.

 

 

Regular exercise, in addition to yoga, can be helpful for those with psoriasis. Exercise has been proven to lower inflammation and enhance general health.

 

When it comes to exercising, pick motions that are low-impact and easy on the skin.

 

Swimming, cycling, and walking are all excellent options. Strength training has further advantages as it can aid with muscular tone and inflammation reduction.

 

Overexertion might worsen the symptoms of your psoriasis, so pay attention to your body and prevent it. Exercise that starts off slowly and builds in intensity and length over time can help avoid flare-ups.

 

Both yoga and physical activity are excellent ways to control psoriasis symptoms. They can boost general health and well-being, reduce stress, and promote flexibility.

 

Psoriasis sufferers have been proven to benefit from yoga in particular, however low-impact activities like swimming and cycling may also be helpful.

 

 

Therapy and Counseling

 

Physically and emotionally taxing psoriasis can make day-to-day living challenging. Many people commonly experience worry, despair, and low self-esteem.

 

The emotional effects of psoriasis can be managed through therapy and counseling, leading you to a better overall quality of life.

 

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one such treatment. This assists people in identifying and changing unhelpful or upsetting thought patterns that negatively affect their emotions and behavior.

 

The goal of CBT is to alter harmful thinking patterns and behaviors, which can lessen stress and enhance mental health.

 

Besides CBT other beneficial forms of therapy are talk therapy and support groups.

 

 

These offer people a secure and encouraging setting to talk about their psoriasis-related experiences and feelings.

 

Finding a therapist or counselor with expertise working with people who have chronic illnesses or skin issues is crucial.

 

They can provide specialized support and guidance tailored to the unique challenges of living with psoriasis.

 

People who are struggling with additional stresses, such as marital problems or work-related stress, might also benefit from therapy and counseling.

 

Learning coping strategies and stress-management techniques can help reduce overall stress levels and improve psoriasis symptoms.

 

The emotional effects of psoriasis can be managed through therapy and counseling, which can also enhance your quality of life.

 

Natural Remedies

 

No medicine can totally eliminate psoriasis. But there are some natural treatments that can assist you in controlling the severity of flare-ups and enhance your skin health.

 

 

Just a few natural remedies that have been shown to be effective for psoriasis:

 

1. Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can help soothe irritated skin. It can be applied topically to the affected areas.

 

2. Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil is a natural antiseptic and can help reduce inflammation and itching. It can be mixed with a carrier oil and applied topically to the affected areas.

 

3. Turmeric: Turmeric contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory properties. It can be taken orally as a supplement or applied topically as a paste.

 

4. Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can help reduce itching and inflammation when applied topically to the affected areas.

 

5. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in foods such as fatty fish and flaxseed, can help reduce inflammation and improve overall skin health.

 

6. Oatmeal Bath:  To take an oatmeal bath, simply add colloidal oatmeal (finely ground oatmeal) to warm bathwater and soak for 15-20 minutes. Colloidal oatmeal can be found in drugstores or online. You can also grind whole oats in a blender or food processor and add them to the bathwater.

 

7. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): offers a range of therapies that can be effective in managing psoriasis symptoms. Acupuncture, herbal medicine, cupping, massage, and dietary therapy are all commonly used TCM therapies for psoriasis. While TCM can be a valuable tool in managing psoriasis, it's important to remember that the quantity of research is rather small. If you're interested in trying TCM for psoriasis, it’s best you talk to your healthcare provider about finding a qualified practitioner in your area.

 

 

Along with following natural therapies, collaborate with your healthcare provider to devise a customized strategy that encompasses modifiable factors like a wholesome diet, exercise, and strategies to control stress. These measures can help you manage the manifestations and indicators of psoriasis.

 

Traditional Treatments

 

While a holistic approach places an emphasis on natural treatments and lifestyle modifications, some psoriasis sufferers may still require conventional therapies including topical creams, light therapy, and systemic drugs.

 

Topical corticosteroids are a common medication that helps reduce inflammation and discomfort. Light therapy, which uses UV radiation to reduce skin cell growth, may be useful for symptom control.

 

Systemic psoriasis therapies that focus on the immune system, including biologics, can offer long-lasting relief from its symptoms.

 

 

• Topical Creams and Ointments
• Light Therapy
• Systemic Medications

 

Topical Creams and Ointments

 

Medications applied directly to the affected area of psoriasis can assist with decreasing inflammation, discoloration, and itching.

 

These creams and ointments are often the first methods of treatment for mild to moderate cases of psoriasis. And are also combined with other therapies for more severe cases.

 

 

 

Corticosteroids are one of the most popular topical treatments for treating psoriasis.

 

The efficacy of treatments such as creams and ointments lies in their ability to reduce inflammation and moderate skin cell growth.

 

However, they may be accompanied by adverse effects such as thinning of the skin and the presence of stretch marks. As well as an elevated susceptibility to infections.

 

Vitamin D analogs like calcipotriene, which are also topically applied, can bring about similar effects, e.g. slowing down skin cell growth and alleviating inflammation.

 

Tazarotene is a topical retinoid, that has been proven to reduce inflammation and improve the physical look of the skin.

 

Salicylic acid can be found in various creams and ointments developed to combat psoriasis. This acid works to break up the thick scales, as well as the plaques, making them easier to get rid of.

 

Coal tar, another old and popular ingredient, has been utilized for numerous years in order to treat this condition. It is possible to be rid of the inflammation associated with psoriasis and slow down the development of the skin's cells.

 

Recently discovered topical treatments for the condition include biologics, such as calcineurin inhibitors. They are competent in relieving inflammation and promoting an improved appearance of the skin.

 

Nevertheless, some of these remedies can be expensive and may demand regular monitoring by a medical expert.

 

Light Therapy

 

Light therapy, also known as phototherapy, can be used to treat psoriasis. This includes exposing the skin to particular light wavelengths. Reduced inflammation, slowed skin cell proliferation, and improved skin appearance are the main objectives of light treatment.

 

 

Here are some examples that may help further explain light therapy for psoriasis:

 

• Ultraviolet B (UVB) therapy: The most common form of light therapy for psoriasis. It involves exposing the skin to UVB light, which is a type of ultraviolet light that can penetrate the skin and slow down the growth of skin cells. UVB therapy can be administered in a doctor's office or at home using a UVB light box.

 

Some common types of UVB therapy include:

 

1. Broadband UVB: This type of therapy uses a range of UVB wavelengths to treat psoriasis.

 

2. Narrowband UVB: Uses a specific wavelength of UVB light that is most effective at treating psoriasis. It can be more effective than broadband UVB and may require fewer treatments.

 

 

• PUVA therapy: Involves taking a medication called psoralen and then exposing the skin to UVA light. Psoralen makes the skin more sensitive to light, allowing the UVA light to penetrate deeper into the skin and slow down the growth of skin cells. PUVA therapy can be administered in a doctor's office or at home using a UVA light box.

 

• Excimer laser: This is a newer form of light therapy for psoriasis that uses a targeted beam of UVB light to treat small areas of psoriasis. The excimer laser can be more effective than traditional UVB therapy and may require fewer treatments.

 

• Visible light therapy: Another newer form of light therapy that uses a specific wavelength of visible light to treat psoriasis. It is thought to work by reducing inflammation and slowing down the growth of skin cells. Visible light therapy can be administered in a doctor's office or at home using a visible light device.

 

To determine the best plan of action for your unique circumstances and receive successful light therapy treatment. Your healthcare practitioner should be consulted as they will monitor you and keep a close lookout for any negative effects.

 

Systemic Medications

 

Orally or intravenously administered drugs that function throughout the body to reduce inflammation, halt the growth of skin cells, and enhance the skin's appearance are known as systemic medications.

 

Those with moderate to severe psoriasis and who have not reacted well to prior therapies are who these medications are typically reserved for.

 

 

 

Examples to further help explain systemic medications for psoriasis:

 

• Methotrexate: This is a medication that is commonly used to treat psoriasis. It works by reducing inflammation and slowing down the growth of skin cells. Methotrexate can be taken orally or by injection and is typically taken once a week.

 

• Cyclosporine: This is another medication that is commonly used to treat psoriasis. It works by suppressing the immune system, which can help to reduce inflammation and slow down the growth of skin cells. Cyclosporine is typically taken orally and may require regular monitoring by a healthcare professional.

 

• Acitretin: This is a medication that is similar to vitamin A and works by slowing down the growth of skin cells. Acitretin is typically taken orally and may take several weeks to start working.

 

• Biologics: These are a newer class of medications that target specific proteins in the immune system that are involved in the development of psoriasis. Biologics are typically administered by injection or infusion and may require regular monitoring by a healthcare professional.

Examples of biologics include:

 

1. TNF inhibitors: These medications target a protein called tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), which is involved in the development of psoriasis. Examples of TNF inhibitors include etanercept, adalimumab, and infliximab.

 

2. IL-12/23 inhibitors: These medications target proteins called interleukin-12 (IL-12) and interleukin-23 (IL-23), which are involved in the development of psoriasis. Examples of IL-12/23 inhibitors include ustekinumab and guselkumab.

 

3. IL-17 inhibitors: These medications target a protein called interleukin-17 (IL-17), which is involved in the development of psoriasis. Examples of IL-17 inhibitors include secukinumab, ixekizumab, and brodalumab.

 

The treatment of psoriasis with systemic medicines can be highly successful. These could also have undesirable side effects, therefore a doctor should examine you frequently. The ideal treatment strategy for your particular circumstances should be determined in collaboration with a healthcare expert.

 

FAQ’s

 

Q: What is a holistic approach to treating psoriasis? 

 

A: A holistic approach to treating psoriasis is one that takes into account the person's physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being, and focuses on treating the underlying causes of the disease, rather than just managing the symptoms.

 

Q: What are some examples of holistic treatments for psoriasis?

 

A: Some examples of holistic treatments for psoriasis include dietary changes, stress management techniques, exercise, mindfulness practices, and natural remedies such as aloe vera, turmeric, and fish oil.

 

Q: How can dietary changes help with psoriasis? 

 

A: Dietary changes can help with psoriasis by reducing inflammation in the body, which can exacerbate the symptoms of psoriasis. Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, and avoiding processed foods, sugar, and saturated fats, can help to reduce inflammation and improve overall health.

 

Q: What are some stress management techniques that can help with psoriasis? 

 

A: Some stress management techniques that can help with psoriasis include meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, body scans, and progressive muscle relaxation. These techniques can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can exacerbate the symptoms of psoriasis.

 

Q: How can exercise help with psoriasis? 

 

A: Exercise can help with psoriasis by reducing inflammation in the body, improving circulation, and promoting overall health and well-being. Moderate exercise such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling can be beneficial for people with psoriasis.

 

Q: What are some natural remedies that can help with psoriasis?

 

A: Some natural remedies that can help with psoriasis include aloe vera, turmeric, fish oil, and apple cider vinegar. These remedies can help to reduce inflammation and improve the appearance of the skin.

 

Q: Can acupuncture help with psoriasis?

 

A: Acupuncture may be helpful for some people with psoriasis by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation. However, more research is needed to determine its effectiveness for psoriasis.

 

Q: How can massage therapy help with psoriasis? 

 

A: Massage therapy can help with psoriasis by reducing stress and anxiety, improving circulation, and promoting relaxation. It may also help to reduce inflammation in the body.

 

Q: What role does mindfulness play in a holistic approach to psoriasis? 

 

A: Mindfulness practices such as meditation and deep breathing exercises can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can exacerbate the symptoms of psoriasis. Mindfulness can also help people with psoriasis to develop a greater sense of self-awareness and acceptance.

 

Q: What are some potential benefits of a holistic approach to psoriasis?

 

A: Some potential benefits of a holistic approach to psoriasis include reduced symptoms and flares, improved overall health and well-being, and a greater sense of control over the disease. A holistic approach can also help people with psoriasis to develop a greater sense of self-awareness and resilience.

 

Conclusion

Psoriasis management involves not just treating the visible symptoms but also addressing the underlying causes and supporting general wellbeing. By adopting a holistic strategy that includes food and nutrition, stress management, natural therapies, and community support. You re-take charge of your health and live your best possible life.

​​