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Chronic psoriasis treatment
My 30-year-old son suffers from psoriasis, which has caused the loss of his finger and toe nails. I am sure it is of little comfort to him that I suffered the same way for almost 10 years in my forties. His GP just shrugged his shoulders and has chosen to ignore the problem. Is there anything he can do for himself?
When a condition is as chronic as this is, self-prescribing is not the answer. Rather, your son should see a qualified health practitioner such as a naturopath or herbalist who specialises in this skin disorder.
If he can get to London, then I recommend the practitioners at The Alternative Centre (020-7381 2298) who have spent over 25 years helping people manage chronic skin problems, including psoriasis and eczema, holistically.
While the conventional treatment for this condition is topical steroids, there is evidence that one of the essential fatty acids in fish or flax oils can help reduce the severity of the rash and skin scaling. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) was given to people with chronic psoriasis for eight weeks. The daily dose was 1.8mg and those using the oil reported less itching, redness and scaling although the size of the patches of psoriasis was not affected.
Healthy and Essential is a UK company now importing the best-selling Barlean’s range of essential oils which cost £19.99 for a 350ml monthly supply. Mail order on 08700-53 6000.
Topically, your son may find using an organic aloe gel can help relieve itching. In placebo-controlled trials where some patients were given aloe to use and others a placebo cream, the aloe produced better relief that lasted longer than the placebo.