Call Dr. Sharma's Clinic - From United States and Canada call 703-659-0873. Patients From rest of the world and India call +91-6283487321

Top 7 Homeopathic Remedies for Skin Rashes

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 1,943 Comments

A skin rash can be described as any change in the skin that can impact its color, texture, or look. A rash can result in itching, chapping, blistering, and swelling, apart from color change, which may or may not be accompanied by pain. A skin rash may either be localized or it may spread to the entire body. Not only discomfort or pain, but a skin rash may also lower your self-esteem if it affects your looks. Some skin rashes disappear on their own, like the heat rash and swimmer’s itch, while there are others, such as rosacea and shingles, that call for medical intervention.

homeopathic remedies for skin rashes

Homeopathy provides a very safe and reliable treatment in cases of skin rashes. Homeopathic medicines work most naturally to heal the skin rash and associated eruptions present with it. Besides, it brings magnificent relief in its attending symptoms like itching, burning, stinging, pain, and tenderness felt in the eruptions. In conventional mode, usually ointments, creams, anti-inflammatory and steroidal medications are being used for skin rashes cases. They give temporary relief by suppressing the condition and have side effects from prolonged use.  On the other hand, homeopathic remedies for skin rashes are comparatively safe since they have practically no side effects and carry no chance of suppressing something which is very crucial for patients suffering from rashes.

Effective for acute and chronic skin rash

Homeopathy works equally well in acute as well as chronic skin rashes. In acute cases, it aids prompt relief and cure. In chronic cases, initially, it relieves the rash and its symptoms. Once this gets controlled, it starts working towards reducing the frequency and intensity of future outbreaks of the rash gradually till the chronicity of the condition is eradicated from its root.

Homeopathy treats root cause

As the skin rash can stem from various causes, so homeopathy aims to target that root cause in every case to achieve complete recovery and cure. Just providing relief in signs and symptoms of skin rash can never be sufficient for cure. To obtain a cure, treating the root cause is the only way out because till the time the root cause is lurking behind, the skin rash always has a high chance to relapse again and again. Here, homeopathy is the best treatment option to get to the root cause of skin rash and get a cure.

Natural Medicines

Due to the use of natural medicines in homeopathy, there are no side effects of these medicines. Such medicines are free from all kinds of harsh chemicals and toxins. This makes them act very mildly and gently to treat skin rash most harmlessly and naturally.

No-ointment use prevents suppression

Homeopathy is against the use of ointments and other topical applications. This is because it leads to suppression of the skin complaint. As a result, this skin issue may appear again and there are also chances that the problem manifests itself in some other important internal body organs like lungs, heart, and kidneys as its expression on the skin is hindered. To prevent this critical condition, homeopathy never uses topical applications for skin problems. It heals with internal medicines taken orally through the mouth. These medicines focus on correcting the internal disturbance in the human body which is predisposing it to a skin problem. Additionally, it boosts the body’s self-healing mechanism to overcome skin complaints naturally on its own.

Top 7 Homeopathic Medicines for Skin Rashes

Some of the leading remedies to treat skin rashes are Sulphur, Apis Mellifica, Belladonna, Graphites, Petroleum, Natrum Mur and Arsenic Album.

1. Sulphur – For Itchy Skin Rash

Sulphur is the best medicine to treat skin rash attended with itching. There may or may not be any eruptions on the skin. The itching may get worse at night, disturbing sleep. On scratching, a burning sensation is felt in the affected area which later starts paining. Bleeding may start from the areas scratched. In some cases, the sensation of an insect crawling (formication) may be felt. Stitching or prickling sensation may occur too.

When to use Sulphur?

This medicine is highly recommended for cases of skin rash that are very itchy. It helps to control itching and heal the skin rash.

How to use Sulphur?

It works well in both low and high potencies. Initially, it is advised to take it in 30 C potency. In mild cases, Sulphur 30C can be taken once or twice a week but when the severity of the complaint is high, Sulphur 30C can be taken once a day. Do not self-medicate with higher potencies.

2. Apis Mellifica – For Rash With Stinging Burning Pains

This medicine is very effective for rash accompanied with stinging burning pain. The rash is red, itchy, and sore (sensitive to touch). Itchiness may get better in the open air. It is a leading medicine for rash in case of hives (raised bumps in the affected area). It is also prominently indicated for a rash in case of a bee sting, insect bites, heat rash or allergic dermatitis. 

When to use Apis Mellifica?

Apis Mellifica is the best medicine for rash attended with stinging burning pain.

How to use Apis Mellifica?

The recommended dose of this medicine is Apis Mellifica 30 C once or twice a day depending on the intensity of the pain.

3. Belladonna – For Red Rash With Marked Heat

It is a natural medicine highly recommended for cases of red-colored rash attended with intense heat. The affected area is sensitive to touch. The rash may be localized or spread across the body in cases needing this medicine. It is well-indicated for cases of acne rosacea, dermatitis, and measles.

When to use Belladonna?

This medicine can be used in cases of red rash with marked heat and sensitivity to touch.

How to use Belladonna?

This medicine can be used in both low and high potencies. In the beginning of the treatment, it is best to use its 30C potency two to three times a day. To switch to high potencies, consider a homeopathic doctor’s advice.

4. Graphites – For Skin Rash With Blisters Oozing Sticky Fluid

Graphites is very helpful for skin rash when attended with the formation of blisters (fluid-filled bumps). Itching and burning may occur in blisters that discharge sticky fluid. Heat increases the eruptions. In most cases needing it the rash is present in skin folds like the bend of elbow, back of the knee, behind ears, groin, and neck. It is the best choice of medicine for cases of eczema.

When to use Graphites?

This medicine is apt for skin rash with blister formation and oozing of sticky fluid.

How to use Graphites?

This medicine is usually recommended in 3X potency. Graphites 3X (1 or 2 tablets) can be taken once or twice a day depending on the intensity of the complaint.

5. Petroleum – For Rough, Dry Skin Rash With Cracks On Skin

It is highly recommended for skin rash which is rough and dry. It may be attended with deep cracks that may bleed. The skin rash gets worse in winter in most cases needing it. It is highly preferred when there is an extremely dry skin rash in people suffering from eczema and psoriasis.

When to use Petroleum?

This medicine is used to treat dry rough skin often with cracks that bleed. Winter aggravation of complaint is frequently noted where this medicine is required.

How to use Petroleum?

It can be used in 30 C potency once or twice a day.

6. Natrum Mur – For Rash With Fluid-Filled Eruptions

It is an important medicine when there are fluid-filled eruptions (vesicles / blisters) along with skin rash. Its use can be considered in different kind of skin rashes. Firstly, it can be used in cases of herpes zoster (skin rash with painful blisters caused by varicella zoster virus) and fever blisters (fluid-filled sores around the mouth and lips caused by herpes simplex virus). In these conditions rash occurs with bumps that contain watery fluid. Though given mainly for rash with fluid filled bumps, it is also suggested for cases of eczema with red, raw inflamed skin especially on edges of hair. Besides it can be used for sunburn, and  hives with large red rash with marked itching which gets worse by exertion.

When to use Natrum Mur?

Natrum Mur is the most suitable medicine for skin rash with fluid-filled bumps.

How to use Natrum Mur?

Natrum Mur works most effectively in 6X potency. Natrum Mur 6X can be taken two to three times a day at a minimum three-hour gap.

7. Arsenic Album – For Rash Covered With Scales/Flakes

Its use is suggested for cases of skin rash covered with scales/flakes. In cases needing it, there occurs a dry, rough skin rash with scaling. Itching and burning are marked on the rash. Its use can be done in scaly skin conditions like psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, etc.

When to use Arsenic Album?

Its use can be considered in cases of skin rash covered with scales or flakes.

How to use Arsenic Album?

Most commonly it is used in 30 C potency that can be administered once a day initially. If there is no improvement, consult a homeopath to increase the dose or potency.

Causes of Skin Rashes

The factors for skin rashes are as wide-ranging as the kinds of rashes themselves. Some of the common causes are as follows:

1. Dermatitis (skin inflammation): It is further of two types –contact dermatitis and atopic dermatitis.

Contact dermatitis –  It is a common cause of skin rash that refers to an allergic reaction on the skin when it comes in contact with an allergen, like chemicals in cosmetics, soaps, detergents or dyes in clothing, alcohol-based lotions and elastic rubber products.

Atopic dermatitis – Commonly seen in persons having other allergies and asthma, a skin rash appears which is red, dry, and itchy.

2. Use of certain medicines: A skin rash may appear either as a side effect or an allergic reaction to medicines. Some examples include antibiotics, NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflamatory drugs), anti-seizure drugs.

3. Infections

Fungal infections:  ringworm, candida infection

Viral infections: Herpes Zoster/shingles which is a painful blistered skin condition caused by varicella zoster virus

4.  Hives: Itchy, raised bumps (wheals) on skin usually caused by an allergic reaction

5. Seborrheic dermatitis: Red, inflamed skin covered by flakes or scales majorly on the scalp but may also involve areas like eyelashes, eyebrows, area behind ears

6. Scabies: Highly contagious skin condition caused by mite Sarcoptes Scabiei

7. Psoriasis: An autoimmune skin disorder in which red inflamed patches appear on the skin covered with silvery-white scales

8. Acne rosacea: Skin condition characterized by redness, flushing of the face and small pus-filled bumps

9. Food allergy: Eating certain specific foods like eggs, peanuts, milk, fish may trigger a skin rash.

10. SLE (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus): An autoimmune disease that causes joint pain, rash, fever, severe fatigue and organ damage

11. Heat rash (prickly heat): It causes tiny bumps on the skin caused from trapped sweat on the skin

12. Stings and insect bites

13. Cellulitis: Serious bacterial infection in the deep layers of the skin

14. Certain kinds of fever: typhoid fever, dengue fever

In children, some reasons for skin rashes are as follows:

1. Diaper rash: A skin rash on the baby’s bottom in the diaper area

2. Chickenpox: A viral infection caused by Varicella Zoster virus that leads to a rash with fluid-filled blisters on the skin

3. Measles: A viral infection caused by a virus of Paramyxovirus family leading to widespread skin rashes

4. Hand foot and mouth disease: It is a viral infection occurring in young children resulting in rashes on hands and feet along with sores in the mouth.

5. Impetigo: A superficial skin infection caused by Staphylococcus bacteria.

What Other Signs And Symptoms Attend Skin Rash?

A rash may be attended with itching and burning. It may be painful and sensitive to touch. Sometimes a stinging, prickling sensation is felt in the rash. The skin can be dry, rough and cracked. Sometimes blisters are present on the rash that ooze fluid. At times, bleeding may occur from the rash upon scratching. In some of the rashes, scales/flakes are present on the surface.

 

 

Call Dr. Sharma's Clinic - From United States and Canada call 703-659-0873. Patients From rest of the world and India call +91-6283487321

Carbuncle -Homeopathic Treatment , Medicines and Remedies – Drhomeo

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 45 Comments

Carbuncle is much more than just a simple abscess, boil or furuncle. It occurs when multiple hair follicles gets infected. It is usually deep and forms a lump. Homeopathy has an excellent treatment for it.  Homeopathy treatment for carbuncle is very safe and side effects are unheard off. Homeopathy uses body’s own defenses to fight infection, thus homeopathy treatment is fast and safe. Homeopathic treatment for carbuncles are made from naturally occurring substances and are free from any toxicity. Once resolved with these medicines, Carbuncles usually will not recur.

Homeopathic Treatment for Carbuncles

Homeopathy medicines that I have found work the best for the treatment of carbuncles are Anthracinum, Apis mel, Crotalus Horridus, Echinacea, Euphorbinum, Lachesis, and Tarentula Cub.

Out of all medicines, Anthracinum is one medicine that has given me the best results. It is indicated for carbuncles and malignant ulcers. It is very effective when there is a succession of boils one after the other. I have found Apis Mel very useful in cases where there is stinging pain in carbuncles. Crotalus Horridus is very useful in cases where the carbuncle is surrounded by purplish mottled skin and edema (swelling). Another great medicine for carbuncle treatment is Echinacea. It works well in treating recurrent carbuncles.  Euphorbium is indicated in old indolent ulcers with biting and lancinating pains. Lachesis is best suited for carbuncles that are bluish and purplish in surroundings.

What is Carbuncle?

A carbuncle is an infection that occurs in the deep layers of skin and has an involvement of multiple hair follicles, which are infected. The most common bacterial agent that leads to this infection is Staphylococcus Aureus. It may form a lump with collection of pus, fluid and dead tissue in it. It may occur anywhere but is common on nape of the neck and back.

What causes carbuncle?

Exact cause of carbuncle is not known but poor hygiene, friction of clothing and injury while shaving and overall poor health are the contributing factors.

What are the symptoms of Carbuncle?

Carbuncle appears a raised lump initially.  There may be redness around it with pain on touching. Gradually it may grow in size( it can range from the size of pea to a golf ball ) and cause significant pain. it may develop a pus point and may start oozing pus and blood . It may even spread to different areas. Fever and fatigue may be present.

Complications of Carbuncle

Sepsis is one of the major complications that can occur due to carbunculosis. In sepsis the infection from the carbuncle enters the blood stream. An immune reaction to the bacteria may lead to endocarditis.

Call Dr. Sharma's Clinic - From United States and Canada call 703-659-0873. Patients From rest of the world and India call +91-6283487321

Homeopathic Remedies for Clear and Glowing Skin

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 1,105 Comments

The skin can lose its glow and get dull and discolored. Sun exposure, Chloasma, freckles, and scars due to acne are just a few reasons. Although not a life-threatening issue, people with dull and darkened facial skin usually consider it a life-altering one, leading to feelings of inadequacy and decreased self-confidence. This, in most cases, leads to the haphazard use of cosmetics and medicated ointments. However, only temporary results are usually found and in some cases, injudicious use of such products may even aggravate the condition. Homeopathic remedies for clear and glowing skin are totally free from any side effects and are extremely effective in treating this problem.    Homeopathic Remedies for Clear and Glowing Skin

This brings us to the scope of Homeopathy treatment in such cases. The medicines used are all natural and, thus, free from any harmful components. Their selection is based upon the individual constitution of the patient, and success is attained by employing the constitutional remedy internally. No external application is applied or recommended.

As the condition has arisen due to a disturbance in the internal balance of the body and not due to any external factor, the medicine too must work from inside to clear the skin. This result is gained through homeopathic remedies which raise the inner vitality of the person and throw out any noxious agent in the body which may be the cause behind dull and discolored skin. The result—fair, clear and glowing skin is regained.

Top Homeopathic Remedies for Clear and Glowing Skin

Berberis Aquifolium, Sulphur, Psorinum, Bovista, Sepia, Silicea, Kali Bromatum, Natrum Mur, Lycopodium, Phosphorous, are the top remedies for clear and glowing skin.

1. Berberis Aquifolium – Top Remedy for Clear Facial Complexion

Berberis Aquifolium is a natural remedy that attains the uppermost rank in homeopathy for clearing facial complexion. Berberis Aquifolium can be used in all the cases where the skin is dark or has scars due to acne or any other conditions. This medicine never fails to bring a glow to the skin and lighten the complexion. I consider it as the first choice of medicine in cases where a clear facial complexion is desired. It has shown very promising results and given complete satisfaction to my patients as well as me. To sum up, I would call Berberis Aquifolium a ‘precious gem’ in homeopathy to attain fair, clear and glowing skin.

2. Sulphur – To Clear Dull and Dirty Skin

Another wonderful treatment for attaining clear skin is Sulphur. This medicine has gained much popularity and acclaim in treatment for various skin troubles. Sulphur is a deep-acting remedy that helps in removing the very core of the affliction. Sulphur is used when the skin is unhealthy, looks dirty and dull, or is dry and scaly. Sulphur helps to make the skin healthy and nourishes the skin to give it a glow. Sulphur is also prescribed for various eruptions (mostly pimples with dull and dirty look). This remedy helps in clearing pimples and any scars left by them. Apart from dirty and dull skin, the person may have excessive heat in the whole body, especially in the palms, soles of the feet, in the face or in the head. An extra craving for sweets may be shown by subjects who need Sulphur. A dislike towards washing the skin and bathing may be found in cases ideal for using Sulphur. Lastly, persons coming for treatment after the injudicious use of external applications of different varieties (including medicated soaps and ointments) should be given no remedy other than Sulphur. Here Sulphur will help in bringing out the most prominent symptoms individual to a person which will serve as a guide towards finding a suitable remedy.

3. Psorinum – For oily/greasy/ dark Facial Skin

Psorinum is the appropriate remedy for people with oily or greasy facial skin which has a dark and dirty look. The face may also show pimples due to highly active oil-producing sebaceous glands on the face. Here Psorinum will help to clear the pimples and dark skin and control the excessive oiliness of the skin. Psorinum will deep-cleanse the skin pores on the face making it oil-free, clear and glowing. High sensitivity towards cold air may be found in persons needing Psorinum. Offensive perspiration may also be a complaint.

4. Bovista – For Skin Damaged by Use of Cosmetics

Facial pimples, dark skin or any other skin affection caused by the injudicious use of cosmetic products can benefit from the use of the remedy Bovista which is used to clear the skin. Bovista holds a significant place among homeopathy medicines for the treatment of skin problems consequent to the excessive use of cosmetics. Bovista helps in clearing facial skin and makes it look bright and glowing. It also removes pimples or other afflictions resulting from the use of cosmetics.

5. Sepia – For Discolored Skin due to Chloasma

Chloasma refers to brown or black discoloration on the skin of the face, mainly seen in women during pregnancy or in women with hormonal imbalance and menstrual irregularities. Chloasma may also be the resultant outcome of liver disease. The best remedy for clearing Chloasma is Sepia. Sepia work wonders in ladies who have black or brown spots on the face during or post pregnancy. It also works well for women who have discoloration on the face due to uterine afflictions and irregular menstrual cycle of varying degrees. Most women who need Sepia in Chloasma show marked discoloration on the nose and the cheeks. Sepia always shows the best results in such cases of Chloasma. No other treatment can equal it in clearing these discoloured Chloasma spots and returning the healthy glowing charm of the skin, without any side effects.

6. Silicea and Kali Bromatum – For Facial Scars resulting from Pimples

Both these remedies are recommended for a clear skin and for removing scars caused by pimples. Silicea is mainly recommended where deep-seated acne containing pus have resulted in disfiguring scars on the face. It also works where deep pits on the face have resulted from acne. Silicea shows great promise in clearing these pits and scars and making the skin clear. Kali Bromatum is useful in cases where hard indurated pimples have resulted in facial scarring and discoloration. Kali Bromatum works well in clearing scars and bringing back fairness that has been lost due to disfiguring scars, to the skin.

7. Natrum Mur, Lycopodium, and Phosphorus – To Clear Freckles

Freckles refer to pigmentation on the skin, usually on the face, occurring due to prolonged exposure to the sun. This is due to a collection of melanin pigment under the skin resulting in discolored spots on the face and other skin areas that have been exposed to the sun. The spots may vary from brown to black in color. These medicines are always selected according to the constitution of the patient and help to remove freckles and make the skin clean and clear. The constitutional symptoms are all different and peculiar for each of these medicines. A few symptoms are listed below:

  • A person who needs Natrum Mur has hot temperament with intolerance to the heat of the sun. He may also crave salty things. Usually, the person is reserved in nature and may show a tendency to weep easily.
  • The constitutional symptoms for selecting Lycopodium include a desire for sweets or warm food and warm drinks. Chronic gastric troubles of varying character may also be found in subjects needing Lycopodium.
  • Phosphorus may be needed when a person has a craving for ice-creams, juices or cold drinks. Such a person is also sensitive to external impressions like noise, light, and odors.

These are only glimpses of the symptoms, out of a huge list of constitutional symptoms. Apart from these many other symptoms may need to be considered before selecting these remedies. That is where a good homeopath comes in. He will ask for details and work on a comprehensive case study before deciding the medicine most appropriate for you.

Call Dr. Sharma's Clinic - From United States and Canada call 703-659-0873. Patients From rest of the world and India call +91-6283487321

6 Best Natural Homeopathic Remedies for Cellulitis treatment

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 205 Comments

Homeopathic medicines for Celulitis

Cellulitis is a very common bacterial skin infection in which there is inflammation of skin and connective tissue. Cellulitis can occur on any part of the body but face and lower legs are the most common site for cellulitis. Homeopathic medicines for cellulitis treatment  are very effective in fighting out the bacterias without the using antibiotics .

Cause of Cellulitis

The main causative agents for causing cellulitis are Streptococcus pyogenes and Staphyloccus aureus bacterias. In healthy condition the skin act as a protective barrier against infectious agents, preventing their entry into the body. When the integrity of skin is broken due to various factors like insect bite, cuts, scratch marks, injuries, surgical incision etc, the bacteria gain entry into the body through this broken skin and leads to inflammation of skin and connective tissue. People with diabetes mellitus, suppressed immune system and venous stasis are more prone to cellulitis.

Symptoms of Cellulitis

The main symptoms of cellulitis include redness, swelling, heat and pain in the affected area. As the disease advances blebs and bullae appear on the skin. Blebs and bullae are fluid containing eruptions on skin. At this stage fever occurs. If the condition is not properly treated at this stage then it goes further deep into connective tissue and gains access to the lymph nodes. Then the infection spreads to blood leading to septicemia or blood poisoning which is a very critical condition.

Homeopathic Medicines for Cellulitis

Homeopathy medicines are very efficient in treating cellulitis. The medicines work wonderfully by increasing the immunity of patient thereby reducing the swelling, pain and burning in cellulitis condition. Even in cases of cellulitis with bleb formation medicines works wonders that too very gently preventing the physical and mental trauma of surgeons knife intervention. In advanced complicated cases of cellulitis where septicemia has set in homeopathy holds a ray of hope in treatment according to well-selected medicines. Belladonna, Apis Mellifica, Ledum Palsture, Silicea, Pyrogenium, Calendula Officinalis are the top remedies.

1. Belladonna – For Marked Redness of Skin

Belladonna acts as a very good natural medicine for cellulitis where the skin is markedly red and swollen giving it a shining appearance. Patient requiring Belladonna will also experience pain which gets worse by touch. The character of pain is that it appears and disappears suddenly. Another marked feature where this medicine Belladonna can be used for cellulitis is dryness of skin with much heat.

2. Apis Mellifica – When Marked Swelling is Present

Apis mellifica is suited in those cases of cellulitis in which there is much swelling of the affected area along with much burning and stinging type of pains. Apis mellifica also respond to those cases of cellulitis in which the burning pains are relieved by applying something cold over skin and the pains that rapidly shifts from one part to another. Another feature of this medicine indication is rosy hue of skin with much sensitivity towards touch. Apis mellifica can be taken in all those cases where cellulitis is a result of honey bee sting.

3. Ledum Palsture –  For Cellulitis resuting from Insect Bites

Ledum palustre holds a very good image in treating those cases of cellulitis resulting from insect bites. This natural medicine is used in cellulitis when there is  coldness of affected part with tearing type of pains.  Ledum palustre can be used in long-standing cases of cellulitis in which the skin colour changes from blueness to green.

4. Silicea-  For Cellulitis when Blebs appear upon Skin

This remedy Silicea gives very good results when blebs are formed on skin in advanced cellulitis cases. These blebs can contain pus which is very offensive. Silicea is also used when along with cellulitis there is fever with chilliness and offensive perspiration.

5. For Pyrogenium for Septicaemia in Cellulitis

Pyrogenium is an excellent remedy for treating septicemia. The points that guide towards its use in septic conditions is  a) fever with chills b) The body temperature being 103 to 106, rising quickly with abnormally very rapid pulse rate making the patient restless.The patient requiring pyrogenium complains of excessive chilliness in the back. In cases where septicemia occurs after surgery or after childbirth, Pyrogenium acts very effectively.

6. Calendula Officinalis in Post Surgical Cellulitis

Undoubtedly the best remedy for cellulitis that has come after surgical cuts is Calendula officinalis. This medicine acts very efficiently not only as a curative but also as preventive for excessive suppuration/pus formation on the skin in cellulitis developing post surgically. If applied locally to the wounded skin after an injury it helps as preventive for cellulitis.

Call Dr. Sharma's Clinic - From United States and Canada call 703-659-0873. Patients From rest of the world and India call +91-6283487321

Skin allergy & homeopathy

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 46 Comments

It is now an accepted fact that homeopathy works miraculously for skin disorders, and skin allergies are very effectively treatable with homeopathic medicines. Even if the skin disorder is chronic and has been in the body for many years, the biggest advantage that homeopathic treatment has is that it can completely eliminate the allergy from the body, so that the symptoms do not keep coming back again.

The big question, however, is: “Why it is so that homeopathy is successful in treating skin allergies?” The answer lies in the medical fact that in skin allergies the problem does not lie in the skin but in the body’s immune system which becomes overactive.

The efficacy of homeopathy is due to the fact that it takes a holistic view of our body and does not treat the skin as a single organ. It believes that such skin allergies are a part of our disturbed internal state and allergies on the skin are a representation of the disturbed state. The medication is aimed at removing the internal cause or the internal pollution which has resulted in the skin becoming hypersensitive.

Homeopathic philosophy strongly believes that the treatment of skin disorders by applying ointments, creams, etc, is suppressive in nature and that the disease needs to be treated from within the body, or else it will reoccur or change its shape and appear in some other form.

Skin allergies can vary greatly in the type and intensity of symptoms. They can range from a simple rash to a condition where the skin all over the body is intensely inflamed, with severe itching all over and the oozing of watery fluid. Skin allergies broadly incorporate two types of problems: atopic dermatitis. and contact dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic skin disorder categorised by rashes that itch and are of a scaly nature. People with this kind of skin allergy often have a family history of allergic conditions like asthma, nasal allergy, or eczema. It is more common in infants, and 50 per cent of all cases are all-right okay by the age of three years. In adults it is a chronic problem that keeps coming back. The symptoms include intense itching, blisters, rashes more on face, behind the knees, folds of the skin, etc. The most common allergens are eggs, peanuts, milk, fish, soy products, and wheat, dust mites, mold and pollen.

Contact dermatitis is a kind of skin allergy where the reaction develops when the skin comes in contact with the allergens (allergy causing substances) or the irritants.

Call Dr. Sharma's Clinic - From United States and Canada call 703-659-0873. Patients From rest of the world and India call +91-6283487321

Skin allergy & homeopathy

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 1,434 Comments

It is now an accepted fact that homeopathy works miraculously for skin disorders, and skin allergies are very effectively treatable with homeopathic medicines. Even if the skin disorder is chronic and has been in the body for many years, the biggest advantage that homeopathic treatment has is that it can completely eliminate the allergy from the body, so that the symptoms do not keep coming back again.

The big question, however, is: “Why it is so that homeopathy is successful in treating skin allergies?” The answer lies in the medical fact that in skin allergies the problem does not lie in the skin but in the body’s immune system which becomes overactive.

The efficacy of homeopathy is due to the fact that it takes a holistic view of our body and does not treat the skin as a single organ. It believes that such skin allergies are a part of our disturbed internal state and allergies on the skin are a representation of the disturbed state. The medication is aimed at removing the internal cause or the internal pollution which has resulted in the skin becoming hypersensitive.

Homeopathic philosophy strongly believes that the treatment of skin disorders by applying ointments, creams, etc, is suppressive in nature and that the disease needs to be treated from within the body, or else it will reoccur or change its shape and appear in some other form.

Skin allergies can vary greatly in the type and intensity of symptoms. They can range from a simple rash to a condition where the skin all over the body is intensely inflamed, with severe itching all over and the oozing of watery fluid. Skin allergies broadly incorporate two types of problems: atopic dermatitis. and contact dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic skin disorder categorised by rashes that itch and are of a scaly nature. People with this kind of skin allergy often have a family history of allergic conditions like asthma, nasal allergy, or eczema. It is more common in infants, and 50 per cent of all cases are all-right okay by the age of three years. In adults it is a chronic problem that keeps coming back. The symptoms include intense itching, blisters, rashes more on face, behind the knees, folds of the skin, etc. The most common allergens are eggs, peanuts, milk, fish, soy products, and wheat, dust mites, mold and pollen.

Contact dermatitis is a kind of skin allergy where the reaction develops when the skin comes in contact with the allergens (allergy causing substances) or the irritants.

Call Dr. Sharma's Clinic - From United States and Canada call 703-659-0873. Patients From rest of the world and India call +91-6283487321

Pigmentation and Homeopathy

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 452 Comments

Protecting our skin from sun
Dr.Vikas Sharma

Come summer, and sun begins to take its toll on Indians, their skin to be precise. As the temperatures soar to 44`B0C in the season, several people complain of skin-related disorders, all caused due to exposure to sun. While an exposure to sun harms people across all age groups, those with highly photosensitive skin and children are most susceptible to skin damage during summers.

The strong rays of the sun are undoubtedly damaging to human skin while its ultra-violet radiation is all the more harmful to us. Cases of dryness of the skin, spotting or pigmentation, itching, more non-painful acne on the face are common ailments people have been complaining about after an exposure to sun. Patients particularly complain of freckles, skin pigmentation, sun tanning, appearance of reddish elevated patches on the exposed parts and lip pigmentation. Photodermatitis is the most often noticed outcome. Photodermatitis is an abnormal skin response to ultraviolet (UV) rays, particularly sunlight. It can be acute or chronic. Signs and symptoms of photodermatitis are itchy bumps, blisters, or raised areas. Lesions that resemble eczema, hyperpigmentation, darkened discoloration compared to one’s normal skin tone, outbreaks in areas of the skin exposed to sunlight, pain, redness and swelling.

 

Who is most at risk? (1) Skin type may influence the likelihood of a photodermatitis reaction. Those with fair to light skin, or those with red or blond hair, and green or blue eyes tend to be most sensitive regardless of their racial or ethnic background. This is categorised as the skin type I. (2) Exposure to UV rays for 30 minutes to several hours increases the risk of photodermatitis. (3) Exposure to UV rays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. also increases the risk of photodermatitis since 50% of UV radiation is emitted during this time.

 

The treatment

 

Today we find ourselves being cautious and protective of everything around us. There are some effective and natural ways to eliminate the worries of summer time. Homoeopathy is one of the safest forms of the first-aid available. It uses a unique approach to health and healing by addressing both the symptoms of the problem and the person concerned. It also has a unique ability to treat chronic as well as acute skin disorders very effectively. Homoeopathic medicines do not suppress these skin conditions but try to treat them from its source, thereby annihilating the disease in totality

Burning sensation on the skin is one of the first symptoms of sun-induced skin disorders and should be attended to at the earliest, lest it manifests into other skin disorders. The initial reddening of the skin might further lead to pigmentation and stay until one takes medication. Homoeopathic medicine Belladonna is very beneficial for treating the initial stages when burning starts. 30 c potency of Belladonna can be used internally three-four times a day when such sun-induced skin disorder starts till a substantial relief has occurred.

If blisters form, then homoeopathic medicine Cantharis 30 c should be used. Sulphur is a very important homoeopathic medicine when skin disorder results from an exposure to sun. It is also very helpful in chronic skin disorders like eczema, psoriasis, etc, which aggravate in summers. But for Sulphur to be used in acute and chronic cases of photodermatitis, an evaluation by a professional homoeopath is a must.

Call Dr. Sharma's Clinic - From United States and Canada call 703-659-0873. Patients From rest of the world and India call +91-6283487321

Chilblains and Homeopathy

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 15 Comments

Treating chilblains with Homeopathy

image Even the thought of winter for some evokes horrid memories of swollen, painful, itchy fingers and toes. With winters hitting its peak at this time of the year, chilblains and frostbite have already started affecting those prone to it. Timely adequate measures and homeopathic treatment can save them from re-living those horrid memories of frost bitten toes and fingers.

Frostbite and chilblains are injuries due to cold, causing structural and functional disturbances of small blood vessels, nerves and skin. Chilblain is a condition with long-lasting symptoms from mild cold injury. It is an inflammatory disease of the skin of the arms and legs and is triggered by prolonged exposure to cold. The disorder is characterized by painful, itchy skin lesions on the lower legs, hands, toes, feet, ears and the face. The lesions usually last two to three weeks.

[Read more…]

Call Dr. Sharma's Clinic - From United States and Canada call 703-659-0873. Patients From rest of the world and India call +91-6283487321

Psoriasis: Its winter Aggravation and Homeopathy

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 20 Comments

Winters is not a good season for those who suffer from skin ailments, as some skin disorders tend to increase or get triggered during the cold weather. One such skin disorder is Psoriasis. Quite a few of the Patients who suffer from psoriasis have this tendency to develop flare-ups (increase in their symptoms) in winters.These winter flare-ups in psoriasis can range from mild to very severe. For some patients winter is the only time when they suffer from psoriasis, summers can be totally free from any attacks of psoriasis. Homeopathy offers a very effective treatment for eradicating this tendency to develop psoriasis. Not only does it the winter flare-ups, it can very effectively cure psoriasis completely.

Psoriasis is a chronic skin disorder which can last for years together. Although there are many forms of psoriasis, the most common is the Plaque Psoriasis.In this form, Skin lesions are in patches which are red at the base and are covered by silvery scales. Shiny and Silvery scales are typical of psoriasis. This is usually accompanied by itching, soreness, and cracks. It varies in severity from small local patches to complete body coverage. Nails of fingers or toes are also affected.

Psoriasis occurs when immature skin cells from the lower layer of the skin surface move upwards even before they have matured. This leads to the profuse scaling of the skin. Under normal circumstances, the skin cells take about a month to mature, but in psoriasis, it takes just a few days for them to come up to the surface of the skin. Psoriasis has a strong genetic angle to it, about one-third of the cases have a family history of it. Psoriasis is an immune system driven disorder. The ‘t cells’ (one of our body’s defense cells) that are usually responsible for protecting our body against infections, by mistake, start an autoimmune process which leads to inflammation and the rapid production of immature skin cells.

Psoriasis, like much other skin disorder, tends to increase in winters. This is due to the fact that cold weather leads to dry skin. Also in winters, indoor heating arrangements can further rob the skin of the moisture leading to an increase in the symptoms of psoriasis. Hot and sunny climate help the skin to become better and moisturizing the skin can also help.

Homeopathy has an effective solution for psoriasis that aggravates during cold weather.T here are medicines in homeopathy that are there especially for treating winter flare-ups. Not only do they treat the ‘winter increase’ in psoriasis but also help in stopping the recurrence of psoriasis. Homeopathic medicines help in permanently eradicating the disorder from the body. This is possible because homeopathy works by optimizing the defense system of our body, and as Psoriasis is also a result of an overreaction of an immune response, homeopathy cures it by optimizing our defense system. The safety aspect also strengthens the case for homeopathic medicines to be used for treating psoriasis. While using them, the patient is not exposed to the risk of toxicity, as homeopathic medicines are highly diluted and side-effects are very uncommon.

Homeopathic Treatment of Psoriasis

Homeopathy is a natural, safe and effective science that treats skin complaints wonderfully well. Homeopathic medicines remain very successful in treating psoriasis by moderating the overactive immune system. Homeopathic medicines follow a curative approach in treating psoriasis and do not suppress it. In fact, by the time treatment ends, psoriasis is completely eradicated, in its full extent. Top grade Homeopathic medicines in this category are Arsenic Album, Arsenic Iodatum, Graphites, Petroleum and Sulphur. The ideal medicine is selected after an in-depth case study and analysis. Homeopathic medicines start by treating symptoms such as itching and burning in psoriatic lesions. The next step is stop further progression of the disease. In the last phase, Homeopathic medicines heal the psoriatic lesions. Homeopathic medicines have shown remarkable results in all kinds of psoriasis, including psoriatic arthritis.

 Homeopathic Medicines for Psoriasis

Arsenic Album – Effective Homeopathic medicine for psoriasis

Arsenic Album is one of the highly effective Homeopathic medicines for treating psoriasis. Indicative symptoms for use of Arsenic Album include rough patches of skin covered in scales. The patches may be brownish or blackish in colour. Roughness of the skin is very well marked. Burning sensation in eruptions may arise. The skin may be oversensitive. Swelling may also be present on the skin along with dry, patchy eruptions.

Sulphur – Excellent Homeopathic medicine for psoriasis with marked itching

For psoriasis with intense itching in psoriatic lesions, Sulphur is an excellent choice of Homeopathic medicine. Though itching is present throughout the day, it gets worse in during the evening and at night. Another unique symptom to look out for while prescribing Sulphur is that the Itching worsens with warmth. Intense burning on the skin may also be felt. The skin is dry, unhealthy, dirty looking and covered in scales. Also, if psoriasis worsens in damp weather, Sulphur will work best. It is also a good choice of Homeopathic medicine for psoriasis cases that have been suppressed with external applications such as ointments.

Arsenic Iodatum – Wonderful Homeopathic medicine for psoriasis with exfoliation of abundant scales

A highly useful Homeopathic medicine for psoriasis with extreme exfoliation of abundant scales from the skin is Arsenic Iodatum. Beneath the scales, raw red skin is exposed. Dryness of skin with itching may also be present.

Petroleum – Homeopathic medicine for psoriasis set off during the winter

Petroleum is an appropriate choice of Homeopathic medicine for psoriasis that gets triggered during the winter. The skin is dry, hard, rough and very thick. Cracks on the skin may also be present. Bleeding from the cracked skin may be observed. The skin may look dirty. Petroleum is also one of the majorly indicated Homeopathic medicines for psoriasis of the hands and psoriasis arising in skin folds. The affected skin may be very sensitive to touch.

Graphites Naturalis – Top rated Homeopathic medicine for psoriasis of the scalp

Graphites Naturalis is one of the prominently indicated Homeopathic medicines for psoriasis of the scalp. It is useful where the scalp is covered in excessive scales. It is attended with intense itching. The scalp may emit foul odour and the hair may get matted together. Burning sensation on the scalp may arise in hot weather. The psoriatic lesions extend behind the ears. Graphites are also helpful in treating rawness in bends of skin as in the groin, armpits and behind the ears. Graphites also offer help in nail psoriasis. The symptoms for using this medicine in nail psoriasis are – deformed, crumbled, thick and painful nails.

Antimonium Crudum – Best Homeopathic medicine for nail psoriasis

Antimonium Crudum is a very useful Homeopathic medicine for treating nail psoriasis. The person needing Antimonium Crudum has brittle nails. In some cases, the nails grow out of shape. Nail discoloration is also observed. If there is pain under the skin of the nail, Antimonium Crudum is the ideal choice of Homeopathic medicine.

Rhus Tox – Homeopathic medicine for joint pains in psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis

Rhus Tox is one of the best Homeopathic medicines for joint pains arising in psoriasis cases. A person who needs prescribing Rhus Tox will have highly inflamed and painful joints. Joint stiffness will be marked. Warm applications on the affected joints bring relief. Movement, too, provides relief. On the other hand, exposure to cold air worsens joint pains.

Homeopathic Medicines for Psoriasis

Which Homeopathic medicines psoriasis would you rate as the best?

Among the majorly indicated Homeopathic medicines for psoriasis, Arsenic Album and Graphites are an excellent choice. Arsenic Album is very effective homeopathic medicine for psoriasis. Graphites  works wonders for treating skin as well as nail psoriasis.

 I have psoriasis with excessive itching, which Homeopathic medicine should I take?

Homeopathic medicine Sulphur remains highly successful in treating psoriasis attended with intense itching. Extreme burning may also arise in such cases. Do consult a Homeopathic practitioner before you take any medicine.

Please advise a Homeopathic medicine for psoriasis with abundant scale exfoliation?

Homeopathy offers a vast range of medicines for treating psoriasis with excessive scale exfoliation. However, in my clinical practice, Homeopathic medicine Arsenic Iodatum has shown the most wonderful recoveries in such cases. The exfoliation leaves behind a raw, red surface on the skin.

For psoriasis of the scalp, which Homeopathic medicine should I take?

The list is long, but I have found Homeopathic medicine Graphites Naturalis to be extremely useful in treating psoriasis of the scalp. A scalp covered in excessive scales, with itching and in some cases burning, will respond well to Graphites Naturalis.

What is the Homeopathic medicine for psoriasis of Nails?

Graphites Naturalis and Antimonium Crudum are well recognized Homeopathic medicines for nail psoriasis. A person with this condition has discolored, crumbling, brittle, painful nails.

In psoriasis that worsens in winters, which Homeopathic medicine would help?

Topmost on the list of most effective Homeopathic medicines for treating psoriasis cases that worsen during the winter is Petroleum. This Homeopathic medicine has amazing properties and will calm a flare-up and provide relief to the patient.

I have had psoriasis for a long time and now, my joints are inflamed and in pain. Please suggest a Homeopathic medicine.

Inflamed and painful joints in a person suffering from psoriasis refer to a condition called psoriatic arthritis. Homeopathy can definitely treat this condition. In my clinical practice, Rhus Tox has shown great results in cases of psoriatic arthritis. Highly inflamed, painful, swollen and stiff joints in psoriasis are all guiding symptoms for use of Homeopathic medicine Rhus Tox.

 What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a skin disease characterized by well defined red patches covered in silvery white scales. Skin cells normally grow and are shed every 28 to 30 days. In psoriasis, the skin cells start to grow more rapidly, every 3 to 5 days. The skin cannot shed the excessive cells as quickly as they appear on its surface. The result is a build-up of cells on the skin referred to as plaque. The skin lesions in psoriasis may be attended with itching and burning, the intensity varying from case to case. Pain may be present along with itching and burning in psoriatic eruptions. Psoriasis is a disease that runs a remitting and relapsing course, that is to say that there is a phase when the psoriasis gets better, termed as the remitting phase, followed by an active phase, when the psoriasis flares up, termed as the relapsing phase.

How do I know I have psoriasis?

Psoriatic lesions have characteristic in appearance and are easily diagnosed. The presence of dry, red skin lesions with sharply defined borders covered in silvery white scales are well indicative of psoriasis. In case of nail psoriasis, the nails get discolored, deformed, brittle, crippled and may fall out. In a few cases of psoriasis, the joints may get inflamed and become painful. A few skin conditions like ringworm and eczema may look like psoriasis. However, the site of skin lesions, presence of possible triggers and positive family history of psoriasis support diagnosis. In rare cases, skin biopsy is required.

Why does psoriasis occur?

The clear cause of psoriasis is not yet known. However psoriasis is thought to be a disorder of autoimmune origin. Persons with psoriasis suffer an overactive immune system. The overactive immune cells, majorly T cells, cause skin inflammation and trigger the rapid skin cell growth. Psoriasis has a strong hereditary component. A person having a positive family history of psoriasis is at a high risk of suffering the condition.

How is psoriasis diagnosed?

Psoriasis can be easily diagnosed based on the presentation of the skin lesions. In rare cases, a skin biopsy is needed to rule out the type of psoriasis.

Is there only one kind of psoriasis?

No, psoriasis has various types. These are – plaque psoriasis, guttate psoriasis, inverse psoriasis, scalp psoriasis, nail psoriasis and pustular psoriasis. In plaque psoriasis, the skin gets covered in dry spots with a large number of silvery white scales. The major sites for plaque psoriasis are scalp, back, knees and elbows. Guttate psoriasis is characterised by the appearance of small, water droplet-like skin lesions covered in fine scales. Guttate psoriasis is often triggered after a bacterial infection, mainly strep throat infection. The lesions are mainly found on the legs, arms and trunk. Psoriasis lesions that appear in folds of skin – under the breasts, in groin area, armpits for example – are referred to as inverse psoriasis. The skin lesions in inverse psoriasis are in the form of smooth, red inflamed patches. In scalp psoriasis, red, inflamed, itchy lesions covered in thick white scales appear on the scalp. In nail psoriasis, psoriatic lesions arise in the nails, of the fingers or toes. The nail may get discolored, thickening of skin under the nail may arise, pitting on nails may be present and in extreme cases, the nail may crumble and fall out. In pustular psoriasis, pus-filled eruptions arise on the skin that is surrounded by redness and tenderness.

What are the factors that trigger psoriasis?

The various factors that can trigger psoriasis are stress, smoking, alcohol, caffeine, skin trauma and cold weather.

Apart from skin, what are the other sites for psoriasis lesions?

In addition to skin lesions, psoriasis may affect the nails and can lead to inflamed joints. Cases where joints get inflamed are referred to as psoriatic arthritis.

Is psoriasis contagious, can it spread from by touch or other means?

No, psoriasis is not a contagious disease and hence, does not spread from person-to-person contact.

Can stress cause psoriasis?

Stress and psoriasis are interlinked, but stress does not cause psoriasis. Stress plays an important role in triggering a flare-up of psoriasis.

I have had psoriasis for a long time. Now, my joints have started to hurt, why?

If you have had psoriasis for a long time and now your joints are in pain, then there is a good chance you have developed psoriatic arthritis. In approximately 30% of the psoriasis patients, joints may get inflamed and become painful. In psoriatic arthritis, the immune cells start to destroy and inflame the joints due to a misdirected immune response besides the usual rapid cell growth symptoms of the disease. Genetic and environmental factors play an important role in causing psoriatic arthritis.

Can ointments alone treat psoriasis?

Applying ointments may control symptoms like itching and burning in psoriatic lesions, but ointments merely suppress the skin complaint. They will not treat the condition. A curative approach in psoriasis will need to follow proper treatment that aims at moderating the immune system.

Is there a link between psoriasis and vitamin D?

Yes, there is a link between psoriasis and vitamin D. Improving vitamin D levels in psoriasis seems to decrease the severity of psoriasis condition. Vitamin D plays a role in decreasing excessive cell production, and therefore helps treat psoriasis.

rease the severity of psoriasis condition. Vitamin D plays a role in decreasing excessive cell production, and therefore helps treat psoriasis.

Will exposure to sunlight be of help to psoriasis patients?

Yes, evidence suggests that sun exposure helps heal psoriasis, though to a mild degree.

Lifestyle changes can help manage psoriasis better

  • Small changes in lifestyle can help manage psoriasis to a large extent. These measures include:
  • Use mild soap while bathing
  • Avoid bathing with warm water
  • For excessively dry skin, apply coconut oil
  • Quite smoking and alcohol
  • Some sun exposure may help psoriasis while excessive exposure will worsen symptoms
  • Stress management will reduce psoriasis flare-ups

 

Pin It on Pinterest