5 Alternative Treatments and Home Remedies for Psoriasis

 

For people with psoriasis, suffering from painful symptoms like inflamed, flaking, and red skin is not pleasant. The chronic skin condition is due to an overactive immune system that can be triggered by a number of internal and external factors. Many Western treatments include steroid creams and oral medications that come with a slew of unwanted side effects.

Below are alternative treatments that are safe and natural and can help reduce symptoms of psoriasis, leading you back to better health.

 

1. Herbal Remedies

 

●        Aloe Vera: The gel from this cactus plant can be used generously on your skin to reduce redness and scaling caused by psoriasis. Aloe vera can be found in almost any grocery or health store.

 

●        Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil is thought to have antiseptic properties. It can soothe irritated skin or scalp and can be applied daily.

 

●        Turmeric: Turmeric has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Because of this, turmeric has been found to reduce psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis flares. Turmeric can be found in pill form as well as powder form to be added to food.

 

●        Dead Sea Salts: Soaking in a bath with Dead Sea salts or Epsom salts can remove scaly skin and reduce itching. It is recommended that you use warm water and stay in the tub for 15 minutes.

 

2. Mindfulness/Meditation

 

Mindfulness and meditation practices have been found to be effective in people suffering from chronic pain like psoriasis.

 

Meditation is the practice of focusing your attention on the moment and ridding yourself of all external thoughts you may be having. This can lead to a state of relaxation and calmness, bringing balance to your body and mind. 

 

Mindfulness, which is practiced in meditation, includes becoming completely aware of your body, externally and internally. This can be a seated meditation that is focused on awareness of mind, body, and senses.

 

3. Exercise

 

Not only is exercise important to maintain overall health and wellness, but it is also especially beneficial for people with psoriasis.

 

Because people with psoriasis have an increased risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes, regular exercise can prove very helpful. 

 

Many find it hard to exercise because of the chronic pain associated with psoriasis. Exercise programs in the water prove to be an effective alternative that is easier on the body and still allows you to build endurance and strength.

 

Other simple ways to fit more exercise into your day include short walks, taking the stairs and stretching.

 

4. Massage

 

Seeing a licensed massage therapist can help reduce symptoms and pain. Massage promotes the function of muscle and connective tissue and can increase relaxation and circulation in the body.

 

5. Acupuncture

 

Acupuncture has been proven to be effective in minimizing chronic pain in patients. Acupuncture takes a holistic approach with the body and symptoms you may be experiencing. By returning the body to its natural flow, acupuncture can help reduce the intensity of symptoms of psoriasis.

 

 

Home Remedies:

 

●        Soak a towel in cold milk and apply to affected area to relieve itching.

●        Add ½ cup ground oatmeal into a warm bath.

●        Rub the affected area with the inner side of a banana peel.

●        Apply aloe vera gel to affected area.

●        Cut several fresh willow branches into 3-inch stems and place in a pot with plenty of water. Bring to a boil, then simmer until water becomes black. Wash affected areas with the water three times daily.

●        Slice 15 water chestnuts and soak in 3 oz. of rice vinegar. Crush and store in a sealed jar. Apply the paste to affected area and cover with gauze. Change daily.

 

Sources:

https://www.psoriasis.org/about-psoriasis

 

 

Herbal Formulas for Summer

Herbal Formulas for Summer

Summer. The word alone stirs up thoughts of campfires, flip-flops, popsicles, swimming and long sunny days. However, for many people, it also means sunburns, mosquito bites and excessive sweating. Fortunately, there are lots of ways to deal with all of these issues. Sipping on some refreshing lemonade or munching on a slice of watermelon are some traditional ways to cool off. But Traditional Chinese Medicine has some other less common ways of treating summer ailments.

TCM utilizes a methodology based on the five elements. Summer is ruled by the fire element. The summer months are a time of growth, joy and spiritual awareness. Something commonly seen by TCM practitioners during the summer season is a phenomenon called summer heat. The symptoms of summer heat include excessive body heat, sweating, constipation, dry mouth and heart palpitations. Despite the fact summer is a season of warmth, the body still needs to be prepped for the seasonal changes. Any transition from one season to another should include the boosting of the body’s immune system. Therefore, herbal formulas that strengthen the essence and nourish the body are very important to have on hand as summer rushes in.

Herbal formulas are an integral part of TCM. In fact, most scholars believe herbal formulas preceded the development of acupuncture, another vital modality utilized by TCM. One herbal formula that is a must must-have for somebody showing signs of summer heat, is known as Qing Shu Yi Qi Tang. This formula will clear away summer heat, promote bodily fluids and benefit the Qi (pronounced “chee”). Qi is the energy or life force that keeps all living things alive. When Qi becomes deficient or depleted, the body shows signs of disease.

Another herbal formula that can be beneficial during the summer months is known as Liu Yi San. This formula clears summer heat, resolves dampness and tonifies Qii. This particular formula can be used in severe cases of summer heat or heat stroke, as it can help stop any nausea or vomiting associated with heat exhaustion.

Not all herbal formulas are comprised of multiple herbs. There are some individual herbs that can be very helpful to have around in case somebody becomes stricken with summer heat. For instance, chrysanthemum flowers (Ju Hua) are frequently steeped into a refreshing tea during the warm summer months. Ju Hua clears heat from the lungs and is cooling to the body.

Mung beans can also be used to fight off summer-heat and heat exhaustion. Mung beans can be steeped into a tea and sipped during an attack of summer heat. This tea can prevent and decrease the symptoms of dehydration, headaches, abdominal bloating and decreased urination.

There are also many other herbs that can be added to food or steeped into teas or used topically that can help with summertime ailments. Lavender is good for stress relief, as well as skin problems. Got a bug bite? Try applying some diluted tea tree oil. Elderflowers can assist with upper respiratory congestion that is sometimes common. Dandelions can be steeped into a tea that will help reduce a fever.

There are many ways herbs and herbal formulas can help during the warm summer months. Many of the single herbs can be found already made in teabags at the local grocery store. For the herbal formulations, call us now to see exactly you need. So raise a glass of lemonade or iced tea to the season of summer. And don’t forget to add the Ju Hua.

New York Sports Acupuncture

Bishara Wilson, L.Ac., MSTOM, DACM (c)

www.nysportsacu.com

888.375.5444

Recipe for Healthy Skin

Recipe for Healthy Skin

Zucchini Chickpea Burgers
This vegan and gluten-free recipe is filled with healthy ingredients to boost the skin and overall health!

Ingredients (serves 6)

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves of garlic, minced

1 small onion

1.5 cups of zucchini squeezed dry

½ cup of toasted sunflower seeds

¾ teaspoons of sea salt

1.5 cups of canned chickpeas

1 cup of cooked quinoa

2 tablespoons of dijon mustard

1 tablespoon of lemon juice

2 tablespoons of fresh chopped dill

½ teaspoon paprika

Saute onion and garlic in a pan with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. When tender, add zucchini and saute until cooked. Season to preference with salt and pepper.

Grind sunflower seeds, sea salt, pepper until ingredients are coarse crumbs. Add quinoa, chickpeas, dijon mustard, lemon, dill and paprika to mixture. Mix until ingredients are broken up with some texture remaining.

Add zucchini, onion, and garlic to mixture.

Shape into 6 patties and cook on medium heat with olive oil in a pan into golden brown.

Bishara Wilson, L.Ac., MSTOM, C.SMA

New York Sports Acupuncture

(888) 375-5444

www.newyorksportsacupuncture.com

Sources: http://dailym.ai/1md99Vp, http://bit.ly/1NetFxO, http://bit.ly/1NPJuYL, http://bit.ly/21VFuQX

6 Ways to Improve/Maintain Youthful Skin

6 Ways to Improve/Maintain Youthful Skin

Green tea - Green tea is packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that help sooth and reduce redness in the skin. Some experts believe green tea can help reduce collagen destruction that leads to wrinkles. Try starting with even just one cup of green tea a day so increase your antioxidant intake.

Vitamin C - Topical vitamin C applied to the face has been shown to increase collagen production and protect against UV rays. When L - ascorbic acid, a type of vitamin C, is used, research showed the vitamin can improve pigmentation as well as inflammatory skin issues.

Reduce stress -Stress is not only felt mentally, but physically as well. Stress can cause breakouts due to an increase in hormones, making the skin oilier and lessening the body’s defense against bacteria. Make sure to get adequate sleep and give yourself time off for relaxation to calm the mind and reduce stress.

Monitor sun exposure - It is common knowledge that high amounts of sun exposure over the years damages your skin and causes wrinkles. Make sure to always wear sunscreen on your face to protect against harmful UV rays. Even if it is overcast outside, you are still exposed to UV rays. It is important to wear a high SPF sunscreen on your face year round to prevent wrinkles and skin cancer.

Omega-3 fatty acids - Increasing your intake of omega-3 fatty acids is not only good for overall health, but can also help reduce wrinkles and keep the skin looking youthful. These fatty acids can be found in salmon, nuts, seeds, and fish oil supplements.

Acupuncture - Facial acupuncture has become increasingly popular in the past ten years in rejuvenating the skin. Reports have found facial acupuncture can reduces lines on the face and leave skin smoother and glowing. Acupuncture is a natural and non-invasive treatment that does not have side effects. Treatment can also leave one feeling overall more relaxed and at ease. 

Bishara Wilson, L.Ac., MSTOM, C.SMA

New York Sports Acupuncture

(888) 375-5444

www.newyorksportsacupuncture.com

Natural Facelifts with Acupuncture

Natural Facelifts with Acupuncture

More and more Americans are turning away from Botox and invasive cosmetic procedures and finding that facial acupuncture is giving them the natural facelift they are looking for.

Facial acupuncture, which has seen a large increase in popularity in the past ten years, works by improving blood flow at the site of the needle placement and stimulating cell growth.

According to an article in the Daily Mail, inserting acupuncture needles “encourages the production of healing collagen, the protein which the body uses to keep the skin youthful and elastic.”

Patients have reported glowing skin after receiving a 30-minute acupuncture treatment as well as smoother and brighter skin the next day. Color to the face also sees improvement from the increase in blood flow.

Cosmetic acupuncture can reduce and soften fine lines in the face as well as reducing bags under the eyes.

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine work by addressing the body as a whole. Facial acupuncture will not only change the way your skin looks, but will improve overall wellbeing. Reports of better sleep and less stress have also been seen from facial acupuncture.

Because TCM believes that every part of the body is linked to internal organs, it is believed that sagging skin can be a result of a weakness in the spleen, and dark circles under the eye are linked to a liver or stomach weakness.

When acupuncture addresses these organs through specific points on the body, it returns the body to its normal function and as a result helps the problem areas.

Facial/cosmetic acupuncture is non-invasive and has no side effects. It is painless and not only helps rejuvenate the face, but reduces feelings of anxiety and stress. Acupuncture helps improve the body’s natural energy flow, called qi, returning the body back to balance.

Contact an acupuncturist to learn more about how facial acupuncture can not only improve and rejuvenate skin, but destress and relax the body and mind.

Bishara Wilson, L.Ac., MSTOM, C.SMA

New York Sports Acupuncture

(888) 375-5444

www.newyorksportsacupuncture.com

5 Alternative Treatments and Home Remedies for Psoriasis

5 Alternative Treatments and Home Remedies for Psoriasis 

For people with psoriasis, suffering from painful symptoms like inflamed, flaking and red skin is not pleasant. The chronic skin condition is due to an overactive immune system that can be triggered by a number of internal and external factors. Many Western treatments include steroid creams and oral medications that come with a slew of unwanted side effects.

Below are alternative treatments that are safe and natural and can help reduce symptoms of psoriasis, leading you back to better health.

1. Herbal Remedies

●     Aloe Vera: The gel from this cactus plant can be used generously on your skin to reduce redness and scaling caused by psoriasis. Aloe vera can be found in almost any grocery or health store.

●     Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil is thought to have antiseptic properties. It can sooth irritated skin or scalp and can be applied daily.

●     Turmeric: Turmeric has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Because of this, turmeric has been found to reduce psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis flares. Turmeric can be found in pill form as well as powder form to be added to food.

●     Dead Sea Salts: Soaking in a bath with Dead Sea salts or Epsom salts can remove scaly skin and reduce itching. It is recommended that you use warm water and stay in the tub for 15 minutes.

2. Mindfulness/Meditation

Mindfulness and meditation practices have been found to be effective in people suffering with chronic pain like psoriasis.

Meditation is the practice of focusing your attention on the moment and ridding yourself of all external thoughts you may be having. This can lead to a state of relaxation and calmness, bringing balance to your body and mind. 

Mindfulness, which is practiced in meditation, includes becoming completely aware of your body, externally and internally. This can be a seated meditation that is focused on awareness of mind, body and senses.

3. Exercise

Not only is exercise important to maintain overall health and wellness, it is especially beneficial for people with psoriasis.

Because people with psoriasis have an increased risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes, regular exercise can prove very helpful. 

Many find it hard to exercise because of the chronic pain associated with psoriasis. Exercise programs in the water prove to be an effective alternative that is easier on the body and still allows you to build endurance and strength.

Other simple ways to fit more exercise into your day include short walks, taking the stairs and stretching.

4. Massage

Seeing a licensed massage therapist can help reduce symptoms and pain. Massage promotes the function of muscle and connective tissue and can increase relaxation and circulation in the body.

5. Acupuncture

Acupuncture has been proven to be effective in minimizing chronic pain in patients. Acupuncture takes a holistic approach with the body and symptoms you may be experiencing. By returning the body to its natural flow, acupuncture can help reduce the intensity of symptoms of psoriasis.

Home Remedies:

●     Soak a towel in cold milk and apply to affected area to relieve itching.

●     Add ½ cup ground oatmeal into a warm bath.

●     Rub the affected area with the inner side of a banana peel.

●     Apply aloe vera gel to affected area.

●     Cut several fresh willow branches into 3-inch stems and place in a pot with plenty of water. Bring to a boil, then simmer until water becomes black. Wash affected areas with the water three times daily.

●     Slice 15 water chestnuts and soak in 3 oz. of rice vinegar crush and store in a sealed jar. Apply the paste to affected area and cover with gauze. Change daily.

Bishara Wilson, L.Ac., MSTOM, C.SMA

New York Sports Acupuncture

(888) 375-5444

www.newyorksportsacupuncture.com

Sources:

https://www.psoriasis.org/about-psoriasis

Can Acupuncture Effectively Treat Psoriasis?

Can Acupuncture Effectively Treat Psoriasis?

Affecting approximately 125 million people – or about 2-3% of the global population –  psoriasis is one of the most common autoimmune diseases in the world. It's characterized by the chronic formation of skin lesions, red patches, papules and plaque. These formations may appear in localized areas of the body or throughout the entire body, depending on an individual's condition.

Psoriasis is known to trigger intense bouts of itching. The sensation can be so intense that it causes the individual to scratch infection-prone sores into his or her skin. Regardless of how bad it itches, you should never scratch your psoriasis, as it will only make the condition worse.

As with most autoimmune diseases and disorders, psoriasis is caused by an overactive immune system. The immune system is responsible for fending off potentially harmful viral and bacterial infections. It does this by producing key inflammatory hormones. Normally, it produces the right amount of these hormones, but there are times when it produces too much; resulting in conditions such as psoriasis.

The good news is that acupuncture may offer relief of psoriasis and its related symptoms. Acupuncture can have very positive effects on the immune system. When we are sick or dealing with chronic illness, our bodies are not able to function properly. This can be due to the body’s natural energy being restricted or blocked. Acupuncture works by treating the whole body and releasing any abnormalities through acupuncture points. By doing so, the body is able to function as it should and the immune system is strengthened because of this.

With psoriasis, the Spleen 10 xue hai acupuncture point is a popular choice because it targets the immune system.

One study found acupuncture to be effective at treating psoriasis, particularly when western medicine has been exhausted. “Our experience indicates that acupuncture is induced an effective therapeutic modality for psoriasis, particularly when the western medical management is unsuccessful. We speculated about the possible involvement of the cutaneous reticuloendothelial system in the clearance of the skin lesions,” wrote the study's researchers.

Give me a call today to learn how you can get back on track to better health!

Bishara Wilson, L.Ac., MSTOM, C.SMA

New York Sports Acupuncture

(888) 375-5444

www.newyorksportsacupuncture.com

Sources:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1357925

Skin Brushing

Skin Brushing

There are many daily practices we can incorporate into our lives to help us improve our health. Helping our bodies to detoxify is an important part of any wellness regime. Caring for our skin is one way we can stimulate the body’s natural mechanisms to detoxify.

1.  Starting from the feet, brush the soles as well as the upper side using a long-handled natural brush. Using long, sweeping strokes, brush up the legs, covering all of the skin’s surface area, concentrating on the thighs and buttocks.

2.  Put one arm up in the air, allowing gravity to help drain the lymph to the armpit, and sweep down the arm with gentle strokes, drawing towards the armpit.

3.  Brush the torso by brushing towards the heart, and when doing the lower abdomen, brush up the right-hand side, just on the inside of the hip bone, across the transverse colon beneath the ribs and down the left-hand side, then gently across the pelvic area to complete the circle. Repeat.

4.  When working near the breast area, brush over the top of the breast, always aiming for the armpit – and remember, be gentle over sensitive areas.
Skin brushing should be performed once a day, preferably first thing in the morning or before a bath or shower and on a dry and naked body.

After brushing your body, rinse off in the shower while alternating temperatures from hot and cold. Alternating temperatures will bring more blood to the outer layers of the skin and stimulate blood circulation, further invigorating the skin

Bishara Wilson, L.Ac., MSTOM, C.SMA

New York Sports Acupuncture

(888) 375-5444

www.newyorksportsacupuncture.com