Dry skin; psoriasis;
What's the alternative?

Complementary medicine and alternative health solutions to your problems

Jennifer Harper-Deacon
Q I suffer from very dry skin, for which I use oils in the bath. However, I am off on a round-the-world trip soon and, for practical reasons, cannot take them with me. I have yet to find a cream that has the same nourishing effect. Can you recommend anything?

Jane Sinclaire, by e-mail

A It sounds as if you would benefit from using Trilogy’s Everything Balm, which contains organic marula oil. Revered in Africa for its skin-healing properties, marula oil is rich in mono-unsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants. The balm also includes certified organic rosehip oil, omega3 and omega6 fatty acids, evening primrose oil, olive oil and honey, all of which are wonderful for soothing and nourishing the skin.

On first application, you might assume that it will leave a greasy layer on the skin (like many natural butters, including shea butter), but it is absorbed almost immediately.

It is ideal for travelling, as it can be used on any dry areas of the face or body, is packaged in a lightweight recycled-plastic pot and is available in many countries, so you can replenish stocks abroad.

After showering, while your skin is still moist, rub a little of the balm between your hands, then apply it to the dry areas of the skin. Everything Balm costs £18.95 from [www.hqhair.com]; call 01737 822361 for stockists worldwide.

Q For many years, I have suffered from psoriasis of the scalp, and the itching drives me to distraction. Conventional medication from my doctor controls it to a certain extent, but not completely. I use medicated shampoo and a scalp application. Can you recommend any alternatives?

P Golding, Newmarket

A Psoriasis of the scalp or body is a condition where excess live skin cells accumulate, with dead cells, on the skin’s surface and remain there in visible layers. It is regarded as an autoimmune disorder, where something goes awry and the immune system begins to attack areas of the body.

It is important to go beyond topical solutions and take something that targets the source of the problem, such as Simba, a potent natural anti-inflammatory that is suitable for all autoimmune conditions. Simba is pure African potato, which is rich in phytosterols; these balance and regulate the immune system, helping to restore its normal function.

Take one capsule three times daily on an empty stomach; a month’s supply costs £26.50. Themba (£13.49 for 30ml), a herbal skin cream, works well in conjunction with Simba, and can be applied topically to heal the skin and soothe any itching. You can buy both at [www.littleherbal-international.com].

It is important not to use a shampoo that contains the foaming agent sodium lauryl sulphate, as this could exacerbate the irritation. Instead, try Oregon Hair Care’s nongreasy scalp spray, shampoo and conditioner (£14.99 for all three products, from [www.skinshop.co.uk]), which contain oregon grape root, a native North American plant traditionally used to treat psoriasis.

From:   [http://www.timesonline.co.uk]