Psoriasis comes from the Greek word psora, meaning fine bran like scaling. Psoriasis afflicts 1% – 4% of the general population, and is a type of chronic skin condition where itchy scaly red or white flaky patches form on the scalp (in approximately 40% of cases), elbows, forearms, knees, groin, and legs or lower back.
Psoriasis, derived from the Greek word *psora*, meaning “fine bran-like scaling,” affects 1% to 4% of the general population. This chronic skin condition manifests as itchy, scaly red or white flaky patches. These patches often appear on the scalp (in about 40% of cases), elbows, forearms, knees, groin, legs, or lower back. For many, psoriasis seems to “come and go,” presenting as either a few spots or covering large areas. It is not contagious and does not spread to other body parts or people. Psoriasis is characterized by the thickening of the skin (epidermis), which reveals bleeding points when the scale is removed.
The root cause of psoriasis is uncontrolled skin-cell growth. When left untreated, psoriasis forms a thick, crusty, silvery, or whitish dry, scaly layer of dead skin cells known as “plaques.” These plaques result from the rapid accumulation and decay of dead skin cells. In individuals with psoriasis, skin cells divide around a thousand times faster than in those without the condition. Plaque psoriasis accounts for 90% of all psoriasis cases. Joint disease is associated with psoriasis in a significant proportion of those affected, with some studies reporting it as high as 13.8%.
People often wonder why they bleed when psoriatic lesions are scratched. The underlying redness and inflammation beneath the crusty layer of cells is due to increased blood flow to nourish the rapidly dividing cells. Scratching away the plaque reveals dilated capillaries, and excessive scratching can lead to bleeding. This is a common issue for many with chronic psoriasis.
Some patients experience excessively itchy skin, while others do not seem particularly bothered by itching. Factors such as climate or internal temperature regulation may play a role. Severe cases of psoriasis can be physically and emotionally traumatic, though most cases are confined to a few spots, often affecting the sides or back of the head.
Many patients with psoriasis seek help from naturopaths, often as a last resort after trying various treatments from dermatologists. These treatments may include creams, tar solutions, pharmaceutical drugs, and other lotions and potions. Natural medicine can significantly alleviate psoriasis, though it requires perseverance. Skin eruptions are generally curable to a large extent with consistent treatment. However, triggers such as sun exposure, anxiety, stress, and other irritants can cause relapses.
To effectively manage psoriasis, it is crucial to identify individual triggers, adopt a ‘psoriasis-friendly’ diet, and understand the effects of stress and nervous tension. Psoriasis is a stubborn and challenging condition to treat. Successful treatment requires patience, diligence, and long-term treatments, including detoxification, to achieve lasting benefits.
For more information on the causes of psoriasis, read our article on what causes psoriasis here