Skin - Protector and Defender
Sun 9 Jan 2011
Skin problems are
among the most frequently seen by homeopaths, either as a main complaint or
accompanying other symptoms. A large
percentage of patients suffering from eczema are children – between 15 and 20
per cent.
The
skin’s function
Our skin is the
body’s largest organ. It is a first line
of defence, a barrier protecting us from the outside world and also an outlet
for some of the body’s waste products.
From a holistic point of view, spots, boils and rashes are the visible
sign of an internal disorder coming out of the body, helping maintain internal
health (we value a healthy, clear complexion as a sign we are in very good
health). Skin keeps out micro-organisms
and irritants, provides information such as whether it’s hot or cold, and
regulates body temperature. It is made
up of several layers (a bit like a brick wall), with water and fats helping it
to function. In conditions where the
skin is very dry, there are not enough fats and oils to retain the moisture,
allowing bacteria and chemicals to enter more easily which in turn can lead to
further inflammation and infections.
Anyone suffering
from skin problems of any kind is advised to check the ingredients of any
products they’re using as they might be aggravating the symptoms. Most over-the-counter skin care products
(including moisturisers) are based on chemicals derived from petroleum or other
hydrocarbons. Natural oils such as
almond, olive and coconut are more expensive but reduce the toxic load on the
body. Creams won’t “cure” skin problems,
but will help soothe and promote healing.
Getting
to the root of the problem
There are many skin
complaints that are a temporary, “acute” reaction to something, including bites
and stings, sunburn, chicken pox, bruising, nettle-rash& and there are a number of over-the-counter homeopathic
remedies that can be used in these “First Aid” situations to help healing. However, constant, re-occurring or severe
skin problems such as eczema, psoriasis or herpes indicate an underlying
condition that is best seen by a qualified practitioner. These conditions often have a huge effect on
people’s lives with symptoms causing distress on all levels.
Homeopaths are
holistic practitioners treating the whole person. They will look closely at the
skin symptoms, trigger factors and all physical, emotional and psychological symptoms
affecting the patient to build up a jigsaw-type picture before prescribing a
remedy aimed at getting to the root of the problem. Each person is treated on an individual basis
and given the treatment and care they need.
Different patients with the same diagnosis will need different remedies.
If you would like
to know more about how homeopathy could help, you are welcome to ring me for a
chat.
Cath
Sleigh RSHom, Homeopath, 01647 253079, www.sleigh.me.uk/homeopathy
Moretonhampstead Osteopathic
Practice, 3a Pound Street, Moretonhampstead, TQ13 8NX
Still Point House, 40
Fore Street, Bovey Tracey TQ13 9AD
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