Psoriasis (psora is greek for “to itch”) has been diagnosed in both Asia and Europe for over 2000 years. In China it is known under the names Pi Xuan (Ox Skin Dermatitis), Song Bi Xuan (Pine Skin Dermatitis), and Bai Bi (White Dagger Sore/ Whiite Crust), all of the names pointing out the characteristic scaly look of this common skin disorder. The scale itself comes from the over production of skin cells that are regenerating every 3-5 days, instead of the normal 30 days.

At least 1 in 30, roughly one million, canadians suffer with psoriasis. There is an inherited tendency, such that 30% of people with psoriasis have one parent affected. If both parents are affected then the rate goes up to 60 and 70%. The average age group is 15- 30 years of age and then again in the 50 to 60’s. It is rare before 10 and very rare before age 5.

Psoriasis is typically grouped into four main types: Plaque Psoriasis, Guttate Psoriasis, Pustular Psoriasis, and Erythrodermic Psoriasis. The plaque varieties account for about 90% of Psoriasis cases. It is characterized by well defined, symmetrical red plaques, with scale thickness varrying greatly. Itching is sometimes very severe, although it can also be completely absent. If the scale is lightly scratched, quite often a small pinprick of blood can be seen called an Auspitz sign. The areas affected are generally the elbows and knees, scalp, ears and torso/ lumbar regions. 30% of people will have have their nails affected. Many people can also develop Psoriatic arthritis, further complicating the virulent and stubburn nature of psoriasis.

The main factors that have been shown to trigger psoriasis are emotional stress and mental trauma. Hot stimulating foods like alcohol and many drugs including lithium and anti malarial drugs are also to blame. Steriods are quite often wrongly prescribed for psoriasis and can lead to a severe widespread form called erythrodermic psoriasis

Although western medicine is constantly trying new treatment ideas, results have been limited. Most people are told that they will have to live with their psoriasis for the rest of their lives. Common western treatments include steroids, immunosuppressive therapies, UV treatment and retinoid compounds. Please visit http://www.psoriasis.org/for lot’s of information on the western approach to psoriasis.

Chinese medicine has offered successful treatments for psoriasis for thousands of years. Many modern research studies exist showing that these ancient techniques are still valid for people today (please visit our research section). According to a study done by Mazin Al Khafaji of the Skin Clinic in Brighton, England: 65% of patients using Chinese herbal medicine for the relief of their psoriasis, cleared completely. Three years after treatment, 60% were still clear, 20% had a relapse and another 20% had only a minor relapse.

A typical course of treatment for Psoriasis with Chinese Medicine is from 2 to 6 months depending on the severity of the lesions. The method of treatment is through the use of internally administrated herbal decoctions and as well externally applied salves. Lifestyle and dietary counselling is also important. In my practice at Acubalance Wellness Centre where I focus on repoductive and/or skin health, I find that many of the fertlility clients also have skin lesions like psoriasis. In the wholistic practice of chinese medicine "what is on the outside, represents what is on the inside". Meaning a disorder of the skin could represent an internal systemic inflammatory condition. By focusing on the internal imbalance that is manifesting on the skin, we can ultimately change many other chronic disorders as well.