User:Erhie2/sandbox

Overview
Psoriasis, a disease of the integumentary system, is a chronic autoimmune disease in which skin cells build up and form scales and itchy, dry patches. Currently, there are about 7.5 million-8.5 million Americans who are affected by psoriasis. The onset of Psoriasis most commonly occurs during the adult stages of life. Psoriasis generally runs in families. Several factors cause this disease such as stress and/or inflections. Unfortunately there are no cures, but treatment options are available.Several types of Psoriasis exists today including:
 * Pustular psoriasis
 * Bulleted list item
 * Inverse psoriasis
 * Guttate psoriasis
 * Plaque psoriasis

The focus of this page will be on Plaque Psoriasis. Normally, skin cells will grow deep within the skin, then slowly come to the surface, and finally fall off. However, for individuals with Psoriasis this process occurs up to 10 times more rapidly. Therefore, the skin cells that are supposed to fall off, haven't had enough time to fall off causing the buildup. This buildup of these skin cells produce the red inflamed skin with white scales. The most common areas of parin are in the knee joints, elbows, scalp. It also can affect the torso, palms, and soles of feet.

Symptoms
Symptoms include:
 * Rashes
 * Dryness
 * Flakiness
 * Peeling
 * Small bump
 * Thickness
 * Redness

Current treatments: Holistic treatments for psoriasis: Focused more on preventative care and management. Also a cheaper route for people who can’t afford dermatologist care. Mind/Body therapies Developed in Asia more than 5,000 years ago, acupressure uses gentle pressure on the body's key healing points to reduce pain and stress, increase circulation, and boost your immune system. Although, not enough evidence is shown to help reduce the effects of psoriasis. Yoga combines controlled breathing, stretching and strengthening exercises, and meditation to help control stress and improve blood flow to areas affected by    psoriasis. There is no definitive answer to this question. Scientists say there's little evidence at the moment to support the notion that diet can have a major impact on    the disease. But many people with psoriasis swear they've found relief by changing what they eat. Dropping surplus weight and improving your cholesterol and blood sugar is empowering—even if these changes do little for your skin or joints. Aloe Vera Gel from the aloe plant can be applied to the skin up to three times a day. Some research shows it can help reduce redness and scaling associated with psoriasis. Apple Cider Vinegar Used by ancient cultures as a disinfectant, apple cider vinegar may help relieve scalp itch from psoriasis by applying it to the scalp 7 days a week. Tumeric This herb is being frequently studied for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric also has the ability to alter gene expression. Biology highlights turmeric's ability to alter TNF cytokine expression. This is the likely reason some patients find it    helpful in minimizing psoriasis Mahonia Aquifolium (Oregan Grape) Mahonia is a powerful antimicrobial herb that plays a role in immune response. Studies show that applying a cream containing 10% mahonia is effective in    treating mild to moderate psoriasis Milk Bath Minerals in the water help the skin trap hydration and soften the skin, breaking down the plaques that characterize psoriasis.
 * Chamomile, lavender, tea tree oil, and rose can be used to diffuse through the air or applied to the skin during a bath or massage.
 * Acupressure/acupuncture treatment
 * Exercise
 * Special diets
 * Herbal Remedies