Sarsaparilla For The Treatment Of Psoriasis
Sarsaparilla is a plant that has been the subject of study on numerous occasions, due to the medicinal potential that is attributed to it. In fact, according to popular wisdom and alternative medicine, this plant could also be useful to integrate the treatment of some skin diseases, such as, for example, psoriasis.
Psoriasis is a disease whose exact causes are unknown. According to Dr. Shinjita Das, “it is possible that it appears due to a problem with the immune system” and the genetic predisposition to suffer from it.
It is characterized by the presence of red spots (which appear in the form of rashes) on the skin. Plaques are very annoying and, for this reason, patients must receive adequate medical treatment.
“Many of the treatments against psoriasis are complex and require the use of different drugs, which must be applied by the patient in a systematic way and repeated several times a day,” says Dr. José Antonio Lozano.
What is sarsaparilla?
Sarsaparilla (Smilax aspera) is a shrub native to Asia, Africa and Europe. It is characterized by its thin stems covered with thorns, capable of reaching two meters in height. It has been used for years for various medicinal purposes, since it is attributed with anti-inflammatory, diuretic and diaphoretic properties.
Generally speaking, products made with sarsaparilla root (tea, organic tablet capsules) are said to promote circulation, purify the body, help fight water retention, etc.
According to some data published by the online community for psoriasis patients, the presence of adverse reactions or contraindications has not been documented. However, in very high doses, the plant could cause problems such as gastrointestinal irritation and a temporary increase in urine output. Consequently, it is always recommended to use it cautiously and avoid excessive consumption.
A remedy for psoriasis?
In this same community it is stated that “sarsaparilla has been used as a herbal or folk remedy to treat skin problems such as psoriasis, eczema, itching, rash and wound care” with positive results.
Phytotherapists report that the European Commission does not recommend its administration, believing that there is insufficient evidence to support the efficacy of its therapeutic properties.
It is interesting to know that, in an article entitled La zarzaparrilla y el análisis de la materia médica en el siglo XIX mexicano (“Sarsaparilla and the analysis of pharmacology in 19th century Mexico”), it is stated that “in the 19th century, even sarsaparilla became part of the pharmaceutical and patent specialties “. This means that in different areas of the world this plant has been studied with different purposes.
Today it is possible that several researches are underway regarding the pharmacological applications of sarsaparilla, which could be useful to learn more about the plant’s potential and the best ways to take advantage of it.
Infusion of sarsaparilla and garlic oil
While there is no evidence that this remedy is effective, there are psoriasis patients who regularly include it in their diet for relief.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of water (250 ml)
- 1 cup of garlic oil (200 g)
- 2 teaspoons of sarsaparilla root (10 g)
Method
- Boil some water in a container. Once it has reached boiling point, add the sarsaparilla root and let it sit for 15 minutes.
- Mix the sarsaparilla infusion with the garlic oil in a container with a lid, in order to preserve the preparation.
- Let the preparation cool and, using a cotton swab, gently apply it to the affected skin area.
Recommendations
If you harvest sarsaparilla root yourself to prepare your remedy from scratch, you must be very careful: there is a plant, called “tamaro”, which has a similar appearance to that of sarsaparilla. The big difference, however, is that the tamaro is poisonous.
Remember that the excessive use of any plant used for medicinal use can cause repercussions or alterations in different organs. Therefore, make a moderate consumption of this remedy and, in case you have any doubts, always consult your doctor.
Final remarks
If the ailments caused by psoriasis persist, always remember to consult a dermatologist, since it could be a more serious condition.
Always remember that skin care is essential. For this, we advise you to use moisturizers and sunscreens. We must always keep in mind that solar radiation is considered a risk factor that can facilitate the appearance of other diseases.
