NATUROPATHIC STRATEGIES FOR MANAGING PLAQUE PSORIASIS: INSIGHTS FROM A CASE REPORT

Chronic plaque psoriasis is a common, persistent inflammatory skin disorder characterized by well-demarcated, erythematous plaques covered with silvery scales, affecting 2-3% of the global population. It has a complex etiology involving genetic predisposition, immune dysfunction, and environmental triggers. Conventional treatments focus on symptom management through topical agents, phototherapy, and systemic medications, often leading to adverse effects and failing to address the underlying causes. This case report presents a 63-year-old man with a 20-year history of plaque psoriasis, characterized by redness and scaling on his legs, feet, knees, elbows, forearms, palms, and back. Aggravating factors included stress, cold weather, sun exposure, infections, and a poor diet. Physical examination confirmed erythematous plaques with no other abnormal findings. A 30-day naturopathic treatment regimen was administered, including dietary modifications, stress management, detoxification practices, and natural remedies. Specific therapies involved counseling, fasting, mud baths, buttermilk enemas, rice gruel application, coconut sun exposure, and meditation. The Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) and Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) were used to monitor progress. The patient showed significant improvement in plaque symptoms, scaling, and itching, with no adverse events reported during a 6-month follow-up. The integrative naturopathic approach positively impacted both physical and psychological aspects of the disease. This case highlights the potential of naturopathic treatments in managing chronic plaque psoriasis. By addressing both symptoms and underlying causes, this holistic approach may offer a viable complementary or alternative strategy to conventional treatments. Further research, including larger randomized controlled trials, is necessary to validate these findings.