Psoriasis can be caused by all kinds of health issues. It’s an autoimmune issue, where your skin cell production is accelerated, thereby created patches of built-up dead skin cells, which become inflamed. It can occur in little patches, or all over your body (ugh!). Doctors and derms typically prescribe steroid creams, but they can have significant side effects, including increasing the chance of more severe outbreaks down the line.
As with most health issues, I like to look at the cause, and then try to treat it naturally.
The cause is, even the medical community, not always know. Psoriasis is thought to be caused by one or more of the following: stress, hormonal imbalance, poor diet, or it can be a genetic condition.
Since I had a few requests, I created a balm, which is both soothing and healing. It also contains Oregon Grape Root extract, which has been found in studies, to be very helpful in treating psoriasis. This gorgeous yellow blossom, know as “The Golden Healer of The West”, has bright yellow roots, which are either ground into a powder or made into a tincture. I recommend the tincture for this recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 c olive oil or grapeseed oil
- 2tsp beeswax
- 2 tsp cocoa butter (or shea butter)
- 1/2 tsp vitamin E or Calendula oil
- 2 droppers Oregon grape extract tincture
- 20 drops lavender essential oil
Instructions:
- Melt the wax and butter over a double boiler
- Pour into a small mixing bowl and leave for 30 minutes or until is has turned completely opaque. It will be partially set at this point, but still soft. Add the the remaining ingredients, and use a small whisk to make sure the oils are evenly distributed. Spoon into an opaque jar.
- Store in a cool, dark spot, but I prefer to keep it in the fridge for maximum freshness. It will last for up to 3 Mo in the fridge.
I recommend purchasing your oils, butter, and essential oils from Mountain Rose Herbs.
