Scalp scales and crust flakes are symptoms of a common skin condition called psoriasis. Psoriasis affects more than five million people in the United States. The red scalp scales and itchy, dry crust flakes can make anyone with this condition feel like a social outcast. Psoriasis affects male and female usually between the ages of 10 and 40 years old. This condition often goes into remission but then suddenly flares up again with no apparent reason.

Although the cause is considered unknown a faulty digestive system is suspected. More specifically, a digestive system that is highly acidic with an unhealthy ratio of good to bad intestinal bacteria. A diet high in white flour products, refined sugar and processed foods lead to a takeover of good bacteria by bad bacteria which eventually leads to a number of health conditions. Unhealthy fats are considered a main contributors to psorisasis. In countries where diets are low in these fats, the condition is rare.

Constipation is another problem that contributes to psoriasis because it allows toxins to be reabsorbed into are bodies. Many people have some degree of constipation and don't even realize it. If you eat a low fiber diet with inadequate fluid intake during the day chances are you have some degree of constipation. Fortunately, our bodies have another method of elimination through the skin. Unfortunately, there can be serious side effects like scalp scales and crust flakes. Triggers for psoriasis include stress, viral and bacterial infections, beta blockers, anti-inflammatory medication and antibiotics. Adding any of these to an overloaded digestive system will quickly bring the onset of symptoms. Traditional treatments include drugs such as methotrexate which can cause liver damage with long term use and cortisone creams which thin the skin.

To be successful at overcoming psoriasis permanently, it is important to identify and eliminate any food sensitivities because they increase inflammation and make the digestive system work even harder. The most common food sensitivities have been identified as eggs, wheat and cow's milk products. In Europe, many doctors use a Vega machine to diagnose and treat food allergies. One of the most common triggers for psoriasis is stress. Learning stress reduction techniques can help alleviate symptoms. Stretching, deep breathing, meditation and getting out in nature and taking a walk.

Eating the right foods and avoiding the wrong foods will quickly bring balance to an acidic digestive system. The right foods are high in fiber and when combined with adequate filtered water intake throughout the day constipation will be eliminated. A diet of 70 percent raw fruit and vegetables with 15 percent cooked vegetables and the rest whole grains, seeds almonds and beans will cleanse the digestive system and restore proper balance to intestinal bacteria. Foods to avoid are refined sugars, red meat, animal fat, fried foods, soda pop, coffee and high acid, canned fruits such as strawberries, pineapple, and tomatoes. While bad fats are linked to the onset of psoriasis, healthy cold-pressed fats such as flax seed, borage, olive, salmon, evening primrose, sesame and halibut oil have been found to prevent eruptions.


Useful supplements are probiotics such as acidophilus to help restore balance of intestinal healthy bacteria. The product should always be found in refrigerated section of health store. Herbs which will help eliminate toxic debris from the body are dandelion, barberry, milk thistle, Oregon grape root, burdock, cleavers and clover. They can often be found in a combination digestive cleanse formulation. Apple Cider Vinegar is effective in loosening scalp scales, reducing legions and eliminating itching. Homeopathic sulfur is effective in treating red and itchy skin. Vitamins A and D, and zinc and selenium also help heal psoriasis. B vitamins enhance liver function and reduce stress. Topical formulas that can be used to help relieve symptoms are licorice and chamomile creams. Effective compresses to loosen and soften scales are comfrey and stinging nettle.