A Naturopathic approach to treating skin conditions

Our skin is the body's first line of defence and is the largest organ in the body in terms of surface area. It's functions include

• Providing a protective barrier against microorganisms, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, dehydration and external environment pollutants.

• Temperature regulation

• Sensation

• Vitamin D production and excretion

The Naturopathic perspective

The traditional naturopathic interpretation of various skin conditions is that they represent a disharmony within the body. Signs and symptoms of the skin are our body's way of letting us know something is not quite right. When treating skin conditions we always look at the case holistically. Every case is different, but usually we look at the following 4 things:

1. Identify the root cause: Is it viral, bacterial, fungal, allergenic, diet-related, hormonal, gut-related, genetic, psychosomatic or environmental?

   
   

2. Support the body's innate healing ability: This can be through diet, lifestyle, nutrition and/or herbs.

   
   

3. Alleviate suffering: Alongside treating the root cause we like to reduce symptoms, especially if they are effecting the clients mental health and daily life.

   
   

4. Focus on prevention: Through education and various recommendations around diet, lifestyle and environment, the goal is to prevent recurrence of the condition.

Herbal treatment

My go-to herbs for skin conditions include Gotu kola (support connective tissues) Calendula (anti-fungal and lymphatic), Echinacea (immune support and lymphatic), Chamomile (soothing and wound healing), Nettle and Red clover (both support detoxification).

Food as medicine

Essential fatty acids (fatty fish, olive and flaxseed oil), Iron (meat, beans and legumes), Vitamin C (strawberries, broccoli, citrus fruit), Zinc (oysters, meat, pumpkin seeds), Antioxidants (all fruit and veggies!) and Vitamin D (mushrooms, sunshine and supplementation if needed).

There are so many options when it comes to treating skin conditions, so if you’re ready to uncover the root cause and heal naturally, book a 1:1 consultation here. You don’t have to suffer any longer.