Ayurvedic Treatment Options, Remedies, and Scientific Evidence for Psoriasis
Psoriasis and its associated condition, psoriatic arthritis, can be challenging to manage, especially when it comes to stress. While yoga is often recommended for stress reduction, some individuals may find it difficult due to joint issues. In such cases, there are several alternative methods to consider.
One such option is meditation, a practice that involves focusing on breath, body sensations, or emotions to calm the mind. This can be done independently or with the help of apps like Headspace or Calm. For those who prefer a more active approach, walking or light exercise can help reduce stress while being gentle on the joints.
Mindfulness techniques, which involve being fully present and aware of the current moment, can also be beneficial. This can include activities like conscious breathing or mindful listening. Another low-impact exercise similar to yoga is tai chi, which emphasises movement and breathing to help reduce stress and improve balance.
Aromatherapy is another stress-reducing method, with certain scents such as lavender and chamomile known for their calming effects. These can be used in baths, diffusers, or applied topically with proper dilution. Hot and cold therapy, applying warm or cold packs to affected areas, can help alleviate stress and discomfort associated with psoriatic arthritis.
Creative activities, like painting, drawing, or writing, can provide a healthy distraction and help manage stress levels. Engaging in social support, whether it's connecting with friends, family, or support groups, can offer emotional support and help reduce feelings of isolation and stress.
It's important to note that Ayurveda, an ancient medical practice, is sometimes used for treating psoriasis. Ayurvedic treatments often involve diet and lifestyle advice in addition to herbal applications, with turmeric being a common topical preparation. However, scientific evidence for the positive effects of Ayurveda on psoriatic skin is minimal or too small-scale for wider application.
Moreover, Ayurvedic products are classified as dietary supplements by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, meaning they do not undergo rigorous safety and effectiveness testing. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health advises that some Ayurvedic products may contain toxic substances like lead, mercury, and arsenic. Therefore, it's crucial to approach Ayurvedic treatments with caution and consult a healthcare professional before starting any new regimen.
Aloe vera is an Ayurvedic compound recommended by the National Psoriasis Foundation for soothing itchy skin. Baths and natural soothing oils can also help keep areas of psoriasis lesions clean, soft, and relieve itching and discomfort.
Regular physical or occupational therapy can help manage pain associated with psoriatic arthritis, and combining these treatments with meditation, yoga, or other stress-reducing methods can provide comprehensive care.
In conclusion, for individuals with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, there are numerous stress-reducing options beyond yoga. By exploring these alternatives, individuals can find a method that suits their preferences and needs, helping them manage their condition more effectively.
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7349275/ [2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6880466/ [3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6706870/
- For treatment seekers with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis who find yoga difficult due to joint issues, meditation, mindfulness techniques, walking, light exercise, tai chi, aromatherapy, hot and cold therapy, and creative activities can offer alternative stress-reducing methods.
- Ayurveda, an ancient medical practice, is sometimes used for treating psoriasis, but scientific evidence for its positive effects on psoriatic skin is limited, and Ayurvedic products may contain toxic substances like lead, mercury, and arsenic.
- Aloe vera, recommended by the National Psoriasis Foundation, is an Ayurvedic compound that can soothe itchy psoriasis skin, while baths and natural soothing oils can keep lesion areas clean, soft, and relieve itching and discomfort.
- Regular physical or occupational therapy can help manage pain associated with psoriatic arthritis, and combining these treatments with meditation, yoga, or other stress-reducing methods can provide comprehensive care for individuals with psoriasis and its related conditions.
- Incorporating school care practices like maintaining a balanced diet, getting adequate rest, and monitoring medical conditions is crucial for those managing chronic diseases like psoriasis and its associated conditions, as well as chronic diseases, for overall health and wellness.
