PSORIASIS
ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW, AND TO CURE

Psoriasis is skin disease which happens when your immune system sends faulty signals and skin cells grow too quickly. These cells pile up on top of each other in red patches, often with silvery scales. At least half the people with psoriasis have it on their scalp. But it is also common to get it on your forehead, behind the ears, down the back of your neck, your arms and legs.

It is a misunderstanding that psoriasis is contagious. It is not. It is an autoimmune disorder which is usually passed along through the genes. Most people who get psoriasis have at least one person in their family with the disease. However, having a genetic predisposition doesn’t mean that you necessarily develop the symptoms. If you are the only person in your family with psoriasis, a good explanation is that the other people who carry the genes, have not developed and displayed the condition. It has to be a perfect storm of genetic predisposition and environmental condition which allows the disease to thrive and manifest itself.

125 million people worldwide—2 to 3 percent of the total population—have psoriasis, according to the World Psoriasis Day consortium. Psoriasis often develops between the ages of 15 and 35, and in rare cases before the age of 10. It is very rare to find psoriasis in infants. Men and women are equally predisposed to developing psoriasis. However, race seems to play a factor. Light skinned people seem to be more prone to developing the condition compared to dark skin people.

Source: Adapted from IHME GBD 2010 (1)

Sources: World Health Organization / American Academy of Dermatology

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS

Psoriasis is not only extremely itchy and physically painful, it has deep psychological effects on the person as well. It leaves the person feeling insecure, unattractive, and anxious. There are 5 types of psoriasis. Here is a brief overview of them:

Plaque Psoriasis
Plaque psoriasis is the most common form of the disease and appears as raised, red patches covered with a silvery white buildup of dead skin cells. These patches mostly appear on the scalp, knees, elbows and lower back. They are usually itchy and painful, and can crack and bleed.

Guttate Psoriasis
It is a form of psoriasis that appears as small, dot-like lesions. This type of psoriasis often starts in childhood or young adulthood, and can be triggered by a strep infection.

Inverse Psoriasis
Inverse psoriasis shows up as intensely red lesions on flex or parts of the body such as behind the knee, under the arm, in and around the groin. It may appear smooth and shiny. Some people have two types of psoriasis simultaneously on their bodies.

Pustular Psoriasis
Pustular psoriasis shows up as white pustules or blisters containing pus, surrounded by inflamed red skin. The pus consists of white blood cells; it is not infectious or contagious. This type of psoriasis most commonly occurs on hand and feet, but can occur on any part of the body.

Erythrodermic Psoriasis
It is a severe form of psoriasis that leads to widespread, fiery redness over most of the body. It is severely itchy and painful, and can cause the skin to fall off in sheets. It is rare and occurs in 3 percent of psoriasis sufferers. It can be life-threatening, therefore, people who develop this type of psoriasis should consult their doctor immediately.


Images courtesy of National Psoriasis Foundation

WHAT CAUSES IT

Doctors are unable to identify what causes psoriasis but they boil it down to two main factors:

1. Immune SystemPsoriasis is an autoimmune disorder. It means your immune system has gone berserk and needs to be reset. Despite prevalent doubts about this topic, I, as a Naturopath and a habitual optimist, believe it can be reset and brought back to its normal functioning. It may not be easy to readjust your body, but it is definitely possible. I am 100% sure of that.Autoimmune disorders mean the body starts attacking itself. In the case of psoriasis, white blood cells known as T cells mistakenly attack the skin cells instead of attacking bacteria and infections. This attack causes the skin cell production to go out of control and the skin cells are pushed to the skin’s surface where they start piling on top of each other.
2. Genetics
   Some people inherit genes that causes them to develop psoriasis. If you have an immediate family member with the skin condition, you have a high risk of developing psoriasis. However, the percentage of people who have psoriasis and a genetic predisposition is small. Only about 2 to 3% of the people who carry the gene, actually develop psoriasis.

Psoriasis appears as a package deal with one of the following conditions:

• Type 2 diabetes
• Inflammatory bowel syndrome or IBS
• Heart disease
• Psoriatic arthritis

If you have psoriasis, you are at high risk of developing one of these other conditions, and vice versa.

WHAT TRIGGERS PSORIASIS

The most common triggers include the following:

STRESS

Stress is a silent killer and is the main culprit behind many chronic conditions. It is not surprising that unusually high stress levels trigger a psoriasis flare-up. If you learn to reduce and manage your stress, you can reduce, and even prevent flare-ups.

ALCOHOL

Alcohol use can trigger psoriasis flare-ups. Reducing alcohol consumption is great news for more than your skin.

INJURY

An accident, cut, scrape, scratch, shots, vaccines, and sunburns can also trigger a new outbreak.

INFECTION

Since psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system has gone berserk, if you are sick or fighting an infection, your immune system will go into overdrive to fight off the infection. This may start another flare-up. Strep throat is a common trigger for psoriasis flare-ups.

MEDICATIONS

Some medications may cause psoriasis to flare-up. These include:

• Lithium
• Anti-malarial medications
• High blood pressure medications
• Systemic steroids

HOW TO PROVIDE RELIEF FOR THE SYMPTOMS

Doctors usually prescribe systemic steroids. This suppresses the symptoms for a short duration but does not provide long term results. Psoriasis is itchy and painful. Depending on the symptom, the treatment will be different. Here we will discuss some common symptoms and natural ways to provide relief. If you follow the advice and remain consistent, you will definitely experience relief from the symptoms.

SYMPTOM 1: ITCHINESS

Itchiness is the hardest part of dealing with psoriasis. The itch is severe and non-stop, and can give a burning sensation. No matter how bad it gets, don’t scratch. Scratching it might provide momentary relief, but it will break the skin open and may cause bleeding and possible infection. If the itch is on the scalp, it can result in hair loss.

RELIEF:

• Moisturize: Use heavy moisturizers like petroleum jelly and Castor oil to lock in the moisture. Castor oil is not only soothing, it heals the skin in the long run. You can chill them in the refrigerator or freezer for an extra soothing effect.Avoid using commercial creams and lotions as they tend to over dry the skin.
• Cold Packs: Apply cold packs on inflamed itchy skin to provide relief.
• Green Tea Bags: Used green tea (or black tea) bags are also helpful in providing relief to tender and broken skin. After you make green tea, save the used bags and store them in a clean bag in the freezer. Apply them on itchy skin as needed.
• Castor Oil Mask: Coat the flare-up with castor oil and wrap with clear plastic to entrap moisture. Leave overnight and wash in the morning.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple Cider vinegar really helps with the itch. You may not feel any immediate difference in itching, but daily use of it will definitely provide long-term relief. Apply apple cider vinegar on a clean cloth and dab on the affected areas. Once it is dry, wash with luke warm water. Don’t let it stay on your skin for extended period of time as it may over dry the skin and harm you instead of benefitting. Make sure to moisturize your skin after using apple cider vinegar.
• Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil is beneficial in all skin related ailments including psoriasis. Apply a few drops of tea tree oil after shower on the affected area and gently massage it into your skin. Leave overnight and wash in the morning. Repeat every night for continued relief.
• Rose Water: Keep rose water in a spray bottle and apply on the irritated inflamed skin each time it itches. It will soothe the skin and moisten the dry area to prevent cracking.

SYMPTOM 2: PAIN

A flare up can cause pain, especially when it is on the scalp as the skin can crack, or if you scratched.

RELIEF:

1. The best way to keep the pain at bay is to treat and control your psoriasis. And to keep scales in check before they can flake and crack. The best treatment for this is daily use of heavy moisturizers like petroleum jelly and castor oil.

SYMPTOM 3: DEPRESSION

Psoriasis is a life-altering condition that takes a toll on your mental and emotional well-being. You struggle daily with the flakes, itch, pain, and the appearance of the skin. Ignorant and judgmental remarks don’t help either.

As hard as it is to hear, don’t let it get to you. You are not alone. Millions of people around the world are facing the same struggles. I have firsthand seen my loved ones brave this disease with courage, and I know the amount of resolve it takes for you to lead a normal life.

Psoriasis is a condition you have. It doesn’t define you. Neither does it limit you as a person. You are you, and you will always be special. And no matter what anyone says, you need to know that you can overcome psoriasis. You can reverse the condition. The resolve you put in dealing with the disease daily, refocus it on overcoming. Let me help you!

WHAT YOU CAN DO TO CURE PSORIASIS

1. RESET YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM

   I recommend you work with a Naturopath to reset your immune system. I can’t provide general guidelines here since everyone is different and the plan will have to be tailored to your individual needs.

2. MAINTAIN PROPER HYGIENE

   You have to be extra alert about your hygiene, personal and environmental cleanliness.

   • Wash your towel every few days and dry it properly
   • Change your clothes daily
   • Change your bedsheets and pillow covers at least twice a week
   • Use mild shampoo and soaps
   • Moisturize your body daily with natural moisturizers
   • Use a mild detergent for all your washing
   • Use a humidifier around you to prevent drying your skin
3. DE-STRESS

   Stress is one of the big trigger points. You have to find a way to de-stress daily. Go on long walks. Stretch. Read a book. Have a cup of coffee. Exercise. Meditate. Do some gardening. Find an activity and a place that makes you happy. You are responsible for your happiness and well-being, no one else is. Take care of yourself before you take care of others.

4. CASTOR OIL

   Coat your body with castor oil daily to keep it well hydrated and strong.

5. COCOA BUTTER / SHEA BUTTER

   They are both amazing natural moisturizers which not only hydrate the skin, they are safe for even the most sensitive skins and can strengthen the skin over time.

6. COCONUT OIL AND ROSE WATER

   Mix equal parts coconut oil and rose water in a spray bottle, shake well and apply each time you wash your hands and face, or take a shower. No matter what, don’t let your skin become dry. It is also safe for you to use on your scalp.

DIET FOR THOSE LIVING WITH PSORIASIS

Diet is an extremely important part of addressing any disease, ailment, or condition. The problem lies at the core and has to be addressed at the core. If you don’t change your diet, no matter what you do externally, won’t make any substantial, long term difference.

Once you commit to changing the diet and lifestyle, you will be amazed at the results. It is a guarantee and a promise. You commit and follow the guidelines, and be prepared to say goodbye to psoriasis!

Food alone can’t cure psoriasis, but it can definitely help reduce the symptoms. That, combined with the rest of the package, will help you heal and overcome your dis-ease.

LOSE WEIGHT

If you are overweight, losing weight may reduce the severity of the condition. It is unclear how weight affects psoriasis but losing weight has shown dramatic decrease in the symptoms. Besides, it is good for your overall health.

EAT A WHOLESOME DIET

Your diet should be nutrient focused, not calorie focused. Reduce the intake of saturated fats, dairy and grains. Increase the intake of Omega 3 fatty acids. This includes foods like salmon and sardines. If you are unable to eat fish, use high quality fish oil supplement, or flaxseed oil. Plant sources of Omega 3 include walnut, flax seeds and soy beans.

Eat an alkalizing diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, smoothies and fresh juices. Increase the use of herbal and green teas in your diet.

AVOID TRIGGER FOODS

You must avoid inflammation causing foods as they can cause severe flare-ups. At all cost, avoid the following:

• Red meat
• Refined sugar
• Processed foods
• Dairy products

REDUCE THE INTAKE OF ALCOHOL

Alcohol can increase your risk of flare-ups. Cut back your intake, or even better, eliminate it entirely from your diet.

TAKE MULTI-VITAMINS & MINERAL SUPPLEMENT
I can’t stress enough the importance of taking multivitamin and mineral supplements! Good whole food based supplements can be the difference between ease and dis-ease. Do some research and find out the best supplements available near you. Invest in them.

ISLAMIC ETTIQUETTES OF SEEKING MEDICAL TREATMENT

1. DON’T FORGET THE HEALER

   All qadr (destiny)—good and bad—comes from Allah SWT.This is a fundamental belief of faith. Our Islam is conditional on this belief and understanding. We also know…

   “Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear.” (2:286)

   Allah SWT also tells us…

   “And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient…”(2:155)

   This makes a few things clear to us:

   • Your illness and discomfort is a test from Allah SWT.
   • We all will be tested one way or another. We cannot choose how we are tested by Allah SWT; rather Allah SWT chooses how He will test us.
   • We cannot get caught up with who, how, when, where etc. These are irrelevant questions if we believe in the destiny and know that what we have gotten is a test from Allah SWT and couldn’t have happened without His will and command.

   This doesn’t mean that we don’t seek the cause of the illness for the purpose of cure. If you don’t know what is causing your asthma, you can’t cure it. This is not what is meant by ‘questioning the qadr’.

   We are referring to the state of heart and questions like ‘if I had done such and such, this wouldn’t have happened.’ It is the ‘if’ and ‘but’ which are problematic, and we should definitely not let our thoughts wander in that direction.

   • Allah SWT has chosen you, that is why you are being tested.
     • Allah SWT tests those whom He loves.
     • Rasul Allah SAW said: The Prophet (ﷺ) said, “No fatigue, nor disease, nor sorrow, nor sadness, nor hurt, nor distress befalls a Muslim, even if it were the prick he receives from a thorn, but that Allah expiates some of his sins for that.”
       
       Think about that! Allah SWT is cleansing you and preparing you to meet Him SWT without sins.
     • It is elevation of your ranks. When Allah SWT loves someone and tests them, and they remain patient, Allah SWT raises their ranks until they are among the most beloved of Allah’s slaves. The key here is patience! Allah SWT says:
       
       Who, when disaster strikes them, say, “Indeed we belong to Allah, and indeed to Him we will return. Those are the ones upon whom are blessings from their Lord and mercy. And it is those who are the [rightly] guided.” (2:156-157)
   • Allah SWT will never leave you alone during the trials. He is WITH you, providing you are with HIM. Allah SWT says: No disaster strikes except by permission of Allah. And whoever believes in Allah – He will guide his heart. And Allah is Knowing of all things. (64:11)
   • Allah’s tests are not a punishment, rather they are blessings in disguise. Allah SWT created us for akhirah. He SWT wants us to struggle for Jannah. He SWT wants us to go against our base desires and temptations, and follow the message of Islam; how else are we going to earn Jannah?
     
     However, it is not easy! The pressures of this world, the temptations, the expectations, they all make us busy for this world and we forget the hereafter. Without realizing, all our energies, focus, efforts, and struggles are for worldly success, and we give our leftover time to our akhirah. This is not at all what Allah SWT wants from us. He wants the opposite.

     When we get sick, it puts a brake on our daily lives and routines, and we have no choice but to sit back and take account of our lives. It is during times like these, when we are weak, vulnerable and desperate that we remember Allah. Now you tell me, is that a punishment or a wonderful blessing?

     Most people never find time for Allah, until they are deprived of their health or wealth, and are forced to scream ‘O God! Help me!’ That call to the Lord and vulnerability to Him is definitely a blessing!

   • The Lord who gives us an ailment or disaster is also completely capable of lifting it up. In fact, the ONLY ONE who can cure us is Allah SWT. Medications and treatments are only means of attaining that cure; they are not the cure. How many times have we seen that people take the same medication but it works for some and doesn’t have any effect on others. That’s because Allah allowed it to cure some and intended otherwise for some.

     Allah is Ash-Shaafi, the Healer.

     Allah is As-Salam, the Giver of peace & security.

     Allah SWT says in the Qur’an: “And to Allah belong the best names, so invoke Him by them.” (7:180)

     Call Allah ‘Ya Shaafi’ and believe that if He wants to cure you, no one and nothing can stop Him. And if you are not meant to be cured, then He can make your suffering easy and make it a source of cleansing.

   • Don’t ever wish for death, no matter what your situation or how intense the pain is. Instead do what the Prophet SAW suggested:‘None of you should wish for death because of a calamity befalling him; but if he has to wish for death, he should say: “O Allah! Keep me alive as long as life is better for me, and let me die if death is better for me.”’
   • Ask yourself: What does Allah SWT want from me now? If we get a disease, we have gotten what Allah chose for us. Now, He wants us to do the following:
     • Be patient
     • Be grateful to His many blessings
     • Seek cure—charity, dua, ruqya, medicines—all the while believing that only Allah can cure us

2. ALLAH HAS PROVIDED CURE FOR ALL AILMENTS

   Rasul Allah SAW said: “There is no diseases that Allah has created, except that He also has created its treatment. There is no cure for only one illness.”
   He was asked, ‘what diseases is it?’
   He answered, ‘old age.’”This teaches us something very clear: Seek cure but keep your trust in Allah and know that only Allah can cure you.

   There are many medicines available but they do not conform to halal standards. They contain products derived from pork, or contain alcohol. Please don’t tell me that ‘this is the ONLY way.’ Why would Allah SWT put a cure in something that He has not allowed us to use? It is really common sense and very basic faith.

   Look for cures in permissible things. The Sunnah of our Prophet SAW is rich with many medicinal advices. Here I will share a few of them with you.

BLACK SEED

Prophet Muhammed SAW told us:
“There is healing in black seed for all diseases except death.”

Black seed is known with various names in the Muslim world—habbat-al-barakah, kalonji, black cumin etc. However, you should know it by its scientific name in order to avoid confusions with similar looking seeds. It is called Nigella sativa.



It is enough for us to believe in its blessings and benefits based on the saying of the Prophet SAW. However, science has backed this statement of the Prophet SAW fully. To date, various researches have been done on it in both the Muslim world and general scientific community, and the results are astonishing.

There are multiple ways of consuming black seed, depending on the need and what it is used for. For best results, I recommend that you use it under the guidance of a Naturopath or an herbalist. According to the Sunnah, seven seeds in the morning will cure any disease and prevent illnesses, unless destiny strikes. Another common way of consuming it is its oil. Black seed oil is very potent.

These are the common indicators of determining whether the oil is freshly pressed and pure or not:

• It should be sold in a dark, glass bottle to avoid penetration of light; don’t buy it if it is sold in a plastic bottle.
• The taste should be nutty and slightly spicy.
• The aroma should be strong and if you sniff it strongly, it would slightly sting your nose.
• The oil should be thick but not sticky. If should feel smooth like machine oil between your fingers.

ZAMZAM WATER

Muslims all over the world know the virtues and benefits of Zamzam water. It was given to humanity as a mercy and gift from the Lord of the Worlds. What else do you expect from a water whose source of origin was the wing of Angel Jibreel (AS)?

Rasul Allah SAW said:


“It is a blessing, and it is food that satisfies.” (Muslim) Al-Tayaalisi added, in a version that he narrated: “and a cure for the sick.”

The key of course is faith and sincerity. If you believe in Allah SWT—the Restorer, Protector and Healer—and make dua believing ONLY in Him SWT, He will heal you just through Zamzam inshaAllah.

Zamzam water has attracted attention of modern day scientists and major studies have been done on it, especially in Japan and Germany. We have discussed it in detail in HEALING WITH ZAMZAM WATER

Drink Zamzam water as much as you like. It is nourishing, fulfilling, delicious and full of barakah. Make dua before each sip and believe that Allah SWT will fulfill your duas because His Prophet told us so:



‘The water of Zamzam is for whatever purpose it is drunk for.’
3. SADAQAH / CHARITY

   Prophet Muhammed SAW said, ‘Treat your sick by giving Sadaqah (charity).’ (Sahih)Feed the hungry, clothe the needy, provide monthly ration for a desperate family, anything to serve others. The du’as of the needy and oppressed in your favor are listened and answered, and are a source of bringing down the mercy of Allah SWT.

   Some people ask, ‘how much sadaqah should I give?’ The answer is quite simple. Give as much as you value your life! If you value your life and health, you will not hesitate to spend. The more you spend on others, the more Allah SWT will spend on you.

   Prophet SAW said: “There is no person who is afflicted with a wound on his body, and he gives charity due to that, then Allaah expiates from him the like of what he gave in charity.”

4. RUQYA

   Ruqyah is spiritual healing. It is done through recitation of the Quran, seeking of refuge in Allah, remembrance and supplications. They are used as a means of treating physical sicknesses as well as black magic, evil eye, possession of Jinn and envy.The secret of ruqyah is faith and sincerity. You will not believe what the most common ruqyah are to relieve pain, agony and to heal.

   • Surah Al-Fatiha: put your hand over the body part that is afflicted and recite Surah Al Fatiha at least 7 times.
   • Bismillah ir Rahman ar Raheem: Just placing your hand on the body part that is hurt and reciting bismillah is shifa, inshaAllah.
   • The dua of Ayyub AS:‘An-nee mas-sa-ni-yaD-Dur-ru wa ‘AN-ta ‘Ar-Ha-mur-raa-Hi-meen.
     Truly distress has seized me, but You are Most Merciful of those that are merciful. (Quran 21:83–84)
5. DUA’S FOR HEALING & AT THE TIME OF TAKING MEDICINES
   • Allahumma Salli wa sallim ‘ala Sayyidina Muhammadin al-Hadi ila tariq al-milla. Allahumma salli wa sallim ‘ala Sayyidina Muhammad wa bi jahihi isrif ‘anni kulla maradin wa alamin wa waja’in wa ‘illa (then, mention the particular sickness), wa ‘ala alihi wa sahbih.
     
     Oh Allah bless and bestow peace upon Sayyiduna Muhammad, the Guide to the path of religion. Oh Allah bless and bestow peace upon Sayyiduna Muhammad, and through his rank, remove from me every illness, pain, ailment, and disease, and upon his Family and Companions.
   • It is recommended to touch the area of pain with the right hand while reciting this supplication:
     
     Allahuma rabbi-nas adhhabal ba’sa, ashfi wa entashafi, la shifa’ illa shifa’uka shifa’ la yughadiru saqama.

     Oh Allah! The Sustainer of Mankind! Remove the illness, cure the disease. You are the One Who cures. There is no cure except Your cure. Grant us a cure that leaves no illness.

   • Repeat the following du’a seven times:
     
     ‘As’alu Allah al ‘azim rabbil ‘arshil azim an yashifika.

     I ask Allah, the Mighty, the Lord of the Mighty Throne, to cure you.

   • This du’a should be recited while the sick person places his or her right hand on the area of pain. The word “bismillah” should be repeated three times, and the entire supplication should be recited seven times:
     
     A’oozu bi’izzatillaahi wa qudratihi min sharri maa ajidu wa uhaaziru.

     I seek protection in the might of Allah and His power from the evil of what I am experiencing and of what I fear.

Last but not least…

Invest in your health.

You deserve better than steroids and false promises.

You deserve results.

You deserve to lead a healthy, happy, and psoriasis-free life.