Acupuncture found to be an effective therapy for psoriasis

Treating psoriasis is complicated by the fact that it’s not as well-understood as other skin conditions. According to a review, acupuncture-related approaches can be an effective alternative to conventional treatment methods in providing relief to people with the disease.

To put psoriasis simply, it’s a condition where skin tissue grows abnormally fast. This results in the formation of lesions and red, thickened patches of dry, scaly skin. Scientists have not identified a definite cause, but it is believed that the condition is closely linked to a dysfunctional immune system.

Psoriasis occurs in any part of the body, but it usually affects the scalp, elbow, and knees. The skin can flare up because of different stimuli, and when it does, patients may experience an itchy, stinging, or burning sensation on the affected areas. Psoriasis is often linked to chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease, as well as depression.

Treating psoriasis depends on where the flare-up is. Unfortunately, conventional treatment offers nothing more than temporary relief from symptoms. Even today, psoriasis remains incurable.

Studies on the effectiveness of acupuncture as a treatment for psoriasis exist, but they are rare. The authors of the study, published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, launched a review and meta-analysis to establish just how effective acupuncture and related techniques can be in terms of providing relief from psoriasis.

They searched major publications for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that discussed the effects of acupuncture-related techniques on psoriasis. A total of 13 RCTs involving 1,060 participants passed their criteria and were included in the review. The authors noted that the methodological quality of the studies included was not rigorous.

According to the authors, acupoint simulation proved to be a more effective treatment than nonacupoint simulation, even when the former caused adverse effects like feelings of thirst and a dry mouth. Further analysis also confirmed that the treatment’s short-term benefits were rated higher than its long-term effects. In the end, they noted that acupressure was the most effective treatment as per the studies reviewed.

The authors concluded that acupuncture and related techniques may be considered an effective treatment for psoriasis, but larger better-designed studies need to confirm these findings.

Managing psoriasis naturally

Psoriasis is a recurring disease, so care must be taken to ensure that flare-ups do not occur often. Here are several tips to manage psoriasis naturally at home:

• Take the right supplements – Giving the body the nutrients it needs via supplements will help in managing psoriasis and its symptoms. Supplements like fish oil, vitamin D, milk thistle, aloe vera, Oregon grape, and evening primrose oil are recommended for mild symptoms of the condition.
• Prevent skin from drying – Dryness is a trigger for flare-ups, so keeping the skin moist is a great way to prevent them. Using nebulizers to add moisture to the air and applying moisturizers that seal moisture in the skin are a great way to remedy the problem.
• Avoid fragrances – The fragrant chemicals in soaps and cosmetic products can irritate and even inflame the skin. It’s best to use products with gentle, natural ingredients for the best care.
• Eat properly – Consuming foods with anti-inflammatory effects will help soothe flare-ups and stop them before they happen. The best foods include olive oil, fatty fish, nut, and seeds, among others.
• Limit stress – Stress triggers psoriasis, the symptoms of which causes stress – it’s an endless cycle. Proactively avoiding stress is an effective way to keep psoriasis at bay.
• Avoid alcohol and cigarettes – Alcohol triggers psoriasis. In fact, one study found that women who drink five non-light beers or more are twice as likely to develop psoriasis as those drink less.
• Take turmeric – Turmeric can help provide relief from psoriasis flare-ups. The spice can be added to food or be taken in a capsule in supplement form.

Find relief from psoriasis with tips at Remedies.news.

Sources include:

LiebertPub.com

Psoriasis.org

Healthline.com