Psoriasis is a long life skin condition with no medical cure. Patients usually rely on steroidal medications to suppress the body’s immune system. However, this has been a concern over the years because steroids are known to cause serious side effects when used over a long period. This is why nowadays many people have turned to turmeric for managing psoriasis symptoms rather than using medication.
Turmeric has been used for centuries in treatment of various skin conditions. The curative property of turmeric gained more attention when scientists isolated its therapeutic component curcumin. Curcumin is an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant healing agent that can be taken orally or applied to the affected skin. You can add one teaspoon to your juice. An avocado smoothie is good choice since the fat in avocado increases its absorption. To rub it on the skin, you need to mix the powder with some water or oil. However, note that it might stain your clothes and it takes effort to wash off. But it’s a risk worth taking considering the health benefits you will reap from it. For those looking for a convenient solution, you can buy turmeric pills from the store and take as recommended.
Suppressing psoriasis activity
Curcumin suppresses the activity of enzyme PhK which is responsible for the psoriasis activity.
Curcumin and inflammation
Most Psoriasis patients suffer from inflammation. Curcumin takes care of this by reducing the level of histamine. Histamine is responsible for inflammation. It also blocks the molecule that activates the cellular inflammation response.
Skin Infections
Psoriasis patients are prone and at a high risk of skin infections. The skin is already compromised and as such can be infected even with exposure to minute pathogens. Turmeric prevents skin infections due to its antibacterial properties.
Several studies have proven that psoriasis patients can reap huge benefits from this product. The product is FDA approved. However, the main challenge is bioavailability. It is poorly absorbed and that is why many people do not see the effect even with continued use. Those who process turmeric have gone ahead to make capsules that boost absorption. When using it at home, consider pairing it with fatty foods. This is one of the best ways to boost absorption.
Another point to note is that curcumin is available in small amounts in turmeric. So if you are considering turmeric powder from the store, ensure that you take a few grams each day to get adequate curcumin. Adding a little black pepper will increase its absorption.
References:
Understanding Psoriasis — the Basics
Health Benefits of Tumeric – Why Turmeric is crowned the Golden Spice?
Author Bio:
Maggie Martin is Ph.D. in Cell Biology graduate. She is very passionate about healthy living and has been writing about Food and Healthy Lifestyles. When she is not busy, she takes interest in a variety of things such as lifestyle, food, health, herbal medicine, and the benefits of turmeric. Follow her on Twitter @Maggiemartink