How to Clear Psoriasis of the Scalp

Scalp psoriasis is a common skin condition of the scalp, which affects at least 50 percent of all individuals who suffer from psoriasis, according to the National Psoriasis Foundation. It results when the skin cells in the scalp grow too rapidly, forming red lesions that are covered with scales. Although the scalp is one of the trickiest places to treat psoriasis of the scalp, there are number of treatments for it.

Instructions

1

Purchase specially medicated shampoos from the pharmacy. The New Zealand Dermatological Society suggests either a coal tar shampoo or an antifungal shampoo such as ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione or ciclopirox. You may need to use the shampoos on a regular basis for a number of weeks before you see a benefit. Although they are safe for daily use, these shampoos may cause irritation if applied more than twice a week.

2

Treat scalp psoriasis with calcipotriene ointment, suggests the National Psoriasis Foundation. Calcipotriene ointment is a synthetic form of vitamin D3 that is formulated to slow down skin cell growth, remove scale and flatten lesions. Drugs.com suggests applying this cream topically twice a day, in the morning and evening. You may continue treatment for six to eight weeks or as directed by your doctor.

3

Clear up scalp psoriasis using corticosteroids if the psoriasis of the scalp is localized. A research study by Wake Forest University School of Medicine published in the Dermatology Online Journal in 2000 recommends applying a topical corticosteroid such as clobetasol. The research showed that following the application of topical clobetasol solution, there was between 80 percent and 100 percent improvement in two weeks for 80 percent of those undergoing treatment.

What Are the Benefits of HGH on Adrenal Fatigue?

Stressful situations can trigger the body's internal alarm system. Messages are sent from the brain to the adrenal glands directing them to release cortisol as a defense mechanism. But while it is a temporary necessity to thwart danger, the continuous production of cortisol and other hormones causes the adrenals to become fatigued and can impair their ability to function correctly.

Adrenal Fatigue

Adrenal fatigue is the term used to explain the symptoms and conditions that occur throughout the body as the result of inadequately performing adrenal glands. Since the adrenals are the epicenter for the metabolism of nutrients, fluids, electrolytes and the functioning of the cardiovascular system, the body overcompensates to try to counteract these effects. Symptoms vary but typically there is an overall feeling of fatigue and lack of energy. Many sufferers turn to stimulants such as caffeine. According to Dr. Michael Galitzer, a physician who specializes in bio identical hormone replacement therapy and anti-aging medicine, "When people are under enormous and prolonged stress, they will experience adrenal fatigue."

Adrenal Function

The adrenals are two walnut-sized glands that sit above the kidneys. Their primary function is to prepare the body for "fight or flight" when faced with threatening or stressful circumstances. The adrenals release a multitude of hormones, including adrenaline and cortisol, which are meant to assist the body in overcoming the stress. The heart rate speeds up as blood and oxygen are shuttled to the muscles in preparation for action. Once the stress has been avoided and/or eliminated, messages are sent to the adrenals to release another round of hormones that counteract the adrenaline and cortisol and calm everything down.

Cortisol and HGH

Cortisol is a steroid hormone, which regulates blood sugar and determines the nutrient (fat, protein or carbohydrate) that will be utilized for energy during times of stress. However, this process is only meant to last for short periods. When the stress is continuous, the adrenal glands are forced to continually pump cortisol, which can be harmful. The presence of cortisol can create, imbalances in other hormones, such as DHEA and HGH. Human growth hormone (HGH) is produced by the pituitary gland and is responsible for tissue growth, which leads to increased, muscle mass and energy. It is also helpful in weight control and slowing down the effects of aging.

HGH Supplements

Age, stress and other factors lead to a decrease of the body's natural human growth hormone (HGH) production. Individuals who do not naturally produce enough HGH may be prescribed HGH supplements by a doctor. HGH supplements are believed to reverse the signs of aging, enhance muscle mass, increase energy and promote weight loss. One of the symptoms of adrenal fatigue is weight gain. High levels of cortisol present in the body for extended periods of time can affect the thyroid gland and slow the metabolism. According to Dr. James L. Wilson, Ph.D., author of Adrenal Fatigue: The 21st Century Syndrome, "As the 'glands of stress,' the adrenals play a key role in modulating the effects of stress on the body. Taking steps to properly support and promote optimal adrenal health and function is an essential aspect of any anti-aging program."

Risks

Some of the risks associated with HGH supplements are headaches, muscle pain, inflammation, arthritis and the growth of bones and organs. According to the National Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases Information Service, those taking HGH supplements may be at risk for adrenal crisis. Adrenal crisis occurs when the adrenal or pituitary gland is damaged, and it can be deadly. HGH is not believed to cause adrenal crisis, but people who do not make enough human growth hormone also do not make enough of the hormones vital for proper functioning. If a person is only being supplemented for low levels of human growth hormone, they may not even be aware that they are lacking other hormones such as cortisol. It is the low levels of these hormones that can lead to adrenal crisis. It is illegal to use HGH supplements as an athletic-performance enhancer.

Is Crystal Salt an Antifungal?

Crystal salt, or pure salt that has not been refined, has antifungal and antimicrobial properties. Crystal salt can be used in the treatment of fungal infections such as ringworm and athlete's foot.

Background

Salt, also called sodium chloride, is the most common non-metallic mineral in the world, according to the Salt Institute. All salt has antimicrobial and antifungal properties, meaning it can be used to kill bacteria and fungi.

History

Charaka, known as the father of Ayurvedic (traditional native Indian) medicine, documented the healing properties of crystal salt as early as 2000 B.C., according to the Sundaram website.

Benefits

Crystal salt, such as natural Himalayan crystal salt, contains minerals that have been refined out of standard table salt, according to the National Skin Care Institute. Crystal salt contains between 84 and 92 of the minerals required by the human body, and is recommended over other salts for use in holistic treatments, according to the website.

Identification

Pure, unprocessed crystal salt is light pink in color, according to The Marco Eagle. The salt crystals are large, but are easily broken down when dried.

Remedies

The Ringworm Treatment Resource Center suggests dampening skin infected with ringworm fungus and applying moistened salt directly to the skin for 30 minutes. Health 911 recommends soaking skin infected with athlete's foot in a solution of 1 pint warm water and 2 tsp. salt for 10-15 minutes to kill fungi.

How to Build Your Own Alkaline Water Ionizer

Dr. Don Colbert, author of The Seven Pillars of Health," says our bodies thrive in an alkaline environment. According to Dr. Colbert, most Americans have an acidic body environment due to drinking acidic water, eating acidic foods and being under a lot of stress. Drinking alkaline water can help bring your tissue back to an alkaline state. Alkaline water, however, is not always readily available or easily accessible. Building your own alkaline water ionizer is a way to ensure that you always have alkaline water on hand.

Instructions

1

Dissolve 1/4 tsp. natural sea salt in a large glass of water.

2

Soak the sponge in the glass of salt water while completing the next step.

3

Cut a hole in one side of the half gallon jug with a utility knife. The hole should be placed about 1/3 of the way up the jug, should measure approximately 1 1/2 inches high and should extend just short of the width of the jug.

4

Remove the sponge from the salt water and discard the water.

5

Insert the sponge into the hole in the half gallon jug, ensuring that it fits snugly. If the sponge is too large, cut the sponge as necessary.

6

Place the half gallon jug into the corner of a large plastic container (which should be approximately the size of a large shoebox or small dishpan), with the sponge unobstructed.

7

Dissolve 1/8 tsp. of natural sea salt in a glass of tap water and divide it evenly among both plastic containers.

8

Fill each container with enough tap water to completely cover the sponge.

9

Cut the plug off the end of the 12-volt AC power adapter and separate the two wires.

10

Remove 3/4 of an inch of the sheath covering the wires with wire strippers.

11

Attach an alligator clip to each of the wires, making a note of which alligator clip is connected to the positive end and which is connected to the negative end. The positive wire will have a line or stripe running down the wire.

12

Place a stainless steel spoon in each container near, but not touching the sponge.

13

Attach the positive alligator clip to the spoon in the large container and the negative alligator clip to the spoon in the half gallon jug.

14

Make sure the alligator clips and wires are clear of the water and plug in the AC adapter.

15

Let the alkaline water machine run overnight or for at least eight hours for best results. The alkaline water will be in the half gallon jug and will be clear, while the acidic water will be in the larger container and will have a brownish hue.

16

Remove the jug of alkaline water from the larger container by tilting it back so the water moves away from the sponge. This will prevent any cross contamination.

17

Pour the alkaline water into a glass and enjoy!

Epsom Salt & Chelation

A long, hot soak in the tub may relieve you of not only some of your stress, but also some of your toxins. Adding Epsom salts to your bath water can increase its healing and detoxifying effects, because Epsom salts act as a natural and mild form of chelation.

The Function of Chelation

Chelation is the process in which an organic chemical is introduced into the bloodstream that bonds with heavy metals such as lead or mercury in order to "carry" or "flush" them out of the body. Most chelation therapy usually involves a physician. However, Epsom salts can act as a natural form of chelation when added to your bath at home.

The Significance of Epsom Salts

Epsom salts are a mineral compound containing magnesium and sulfate. Magnesium plays a key role in the process of many bodily functions, including the elimination of harmful toxins from the body. However, magnesium and sulfate are two common minerals many of us may be deficient in. The National Academy of Sciences reports that men and women only get about 70 to 80 percent of the recommended amount of magnesium in their diet needed for good health. Luckily, these minerals are both readily absorbed by the body through your skin in an Epsom salts bath.

Benefits

Raising magnesium levels in the body has shown to help flush toxins and heavy metals from your cells thereby aiding your body in the detoxification process. The sulfates in Epsom salts are also thought to help detoxify the body of environmental contaminants and help eliminate medicine residue.

Buying Epsom Salt

Epsom salt can be purchased at drugstores and at most natural foods stores or co-ops. There is little variation between brands.

Making a Detox Bath

For a standard-size tub, add 2 cups of Epsom salts to your bath water. The water should be hot, but if you have a health condition that makes you sensitive to hot water baths, adjust the temperature as needed. Soak for 15 to 20 minutes. You will begin to sweat. After your bath, rinse off in a cool shower. This removes any toxins and salts left on your skin.

Oil Pulling Side Effects

Oil pulling is part of ancient Ayurvedic medicine and is known as Kavala Graham. Although commonly recommended by Ayurvedic practitioners, no scientific studies support the efficacy of oil pulling to treat any condition. Oil pulling is used to treat acute diseases, chronic diseases and may help relieve a variety of problems affecting the teeth.

Significance

Oil pulling consists of swishing sesame or sunflower oil--the recommended oils--around in the mouth and through the teeth for 15 to 20 minutes. This will activate the enzymes in the mouth and draw toxins out of the blood. Oil pulling is best done before breakfast and should always be done on an empty stomach.

Considerations

In chronic cases, Ayurvedic practitioners say there may be a reaction caused by the body regaining its normal healthy state from a diseased condition. This is similar to what is known as the "healing crisis" in homeopathy and naturopathy--when the body rapidly releases toxins. However, practitioners claim this is a sign that the body is healing.

Prevention/Solution

Oil pulling should be done in a slow and relaxed manner. If done too quickly, it may cause sneezing and coughing. The need to urinate or move the bowels may also occur. This is normal and can be avoided by answering nature's call before oil pulling.

Difference Between Glutathione & L-Glutathione

Glutathione and L-glutathione are different forms of the same protein. Glutathione is a monomer and contains a single glutathione molecule; l-glutathione is a dimer and contains two.

Source

Glutathione is a protein made from three amino acids: glutamate, cysteine and glycine. It is a powerful antioxidant formed in the liver, and it supports a wide variety of immune functions throughout the body. Glutathione can exist as one of two different forms: glutathione and L-glutathione.

L-Glutathione

L-glutathione also is known as reduced glutathione, or GSH, and is composed of a single glutathione molecule with the addition of a sulfhydryl group.

Glutathione

When the sulfhydryl groups of two reduced glutathione molecules become oxidized through the loss of electrons, the two molecules can become linked by a disulphide bond and form oxidized glutathione, or GSSG. Oxidized glutathione then is cycled back into reduced glutathione by the glutathione reductase enzyme.

Action

Reduced glutathione is the active form. It donates electrons to free radicals, or molecules with unpaired electrons. The addition of donated electrons neutralizes the free radicals and prevents them from causing cellular damage. Glutathione also participates in various other cellular processes, such as acting as a co-enzyme in biological reactions.