Understanding Psoriasis and Its Treatment Options
Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes red, scaly patches to appear on the skin. It is a chronic disease that goes through cycles of flare-ups and remission. Around 7.5 million Americans have psoriasis. While there is no cure, various treatments can help control symptoms.
Common Psoriasis Triggers
Flare-ups of psoriasis often occur due to certain triggers like stress, skin injuries, infections, and certain medications. Identifying and avoiding triggers whenever possible can help prevent or reduce flare-ups.
Conventional Psoriasis Treatments
Common traditional treatments for psoriasis include topical creams and ointments, light therapy, and oral or injected medications. These aim to control flare-ups and reduce scaling, swelling, redness and itching.
Lifestyle Changes and Home Remedies
Making certain lifestyle changes can also help manage psoriasis symptoms. Maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, avoiding triggers, using moisturizer, and reducing stress are examples. Some find relief with home remedies like aloe vera, apple cider vinegar baths and oatmeal baths as well.
What is Shilajit?
Shilajit is a thick, blackish-brown natural mineral complex that is found mainly in the Himalaya mountains. It develops over centuries from the slow decomposition of plant matter and minerals. It contains over 80 minerals, antioxidants, and fulvic acid. In Ayurvedic medicine, it has been used for centuries for a wide range of health applications.
Potential Health Benefits
Some of the potential benefits attributed to shilajit include:
- Contains antioxidants to help fight cell damage
- Anti-inflammatory effects
- May enhance energy metabolism
- Could stimulate immune function
- May improve memory
- Might raise testosterone levels in men
Using Shilajit for Psoriasis
With its high mineral content and known antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, some proponents suggest shilajit may be useful in managing various chronic health conditions, including psoriasis. However, current clinical studies are limited.
Anecdotal Evidence
There are currently no scientific studies examining shilajit specifically for psoriasis treatment. However, some people do report anecdotally that taking shilajit supplements regularly seems to help improve their psoriasis symptoms.
Since psoriasis involves high levels of inflammation, shilajit's anti-inflammatory effects may potentially play a role in keeping flare-ups under control. Its immune-stimulating effects may also help normalize defective immune responses causing psoriasis attacks.
Other Potential Benefits
In addition to possibly assisting directly with psoriasis management, shilajit supplementation offers other health benefits that may help improve general wellbeing for those suffering from psoriasis, including:
- Contain antioxidants that help fight inflammation and cell damage
- May alleviate symptoms of stress and anxiety
- Could help counter fatigue
- Might improve memory and cognitive function
Is Shilajit Safe?
High quality purified shilajit is generally considered safe when used responsibly, but there are some precautions to be aware of.
Potential Side Effects
Possible side effects can include changed bowel movements, minor gastric distress, dizziness, and allergic reactions in those sensitive to some minerals like nickel. Very high doses may raise uric acid levels.
Safety Considerations
The following groups should use caution with shilajit:
- Pregnant or nursing women
- Those taking blood pressure or blood thinning medications
- Individuals dealing with gout, liver disorders, or gallstones
- Anyone getting surgery within two weeks
It's best to discuss using shilajit with your doctor first if you have any medical conditions or take any medications.
Conclusion
While shilajit shows some promise in helping manage certain chronic conditions like psoriasis due to its inflammation-reducing and antioxidant properties, more clinical research is still needed.
Talk to your dermatologist first before taking any new supplements. Shilajit may provide added support for controlling psoriasis, enhancing overall wellness, and improving quality of life.
FAQs
What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes red, scaly patches to appear on the skin. It goes through cycles of flare-ups and remission triggered by factors like stress, skin injuries, infections or certain medications.
How might shilajit help with psoriasis?
Some believe shilajit's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties could help control psoriasis inflammation and flare-ups. Its immune-boosting effects may also help normalize defective immune function causing psoriasis outbreaks.
Are there any scientific studies on shilajit for psoriasis?
Currently there are no published clinical studies examining the efficacy of shilajit specifically for psoriasis treatment. The evidence is limited to personal anecdotes from psoriasis patients who feel shilajit helps their symptoms.
Does shilajit have any side effects?
When used properly, purified shilajit is generally safe, but possible side effects can include stomach distress, dizziness, and allergic reactions. Those with certain health conditions or taking medications should exercise caution.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
Add Comment