Category: Skin Disorders

The word ringworm used for this disease does not correctly describe it For, the disease is not caused by any worm but by a fungus which is a very minute form of vegetable plant life that grows on the skin.

The disease is more annoying than dangerous. It is serious only when the skin breaks up due to scratching and this leads to secondary infection.

Ringworm Symptoms

Ringworm infection occurs in the scalp, the body, the feet and the nails. Ringworm of the scalp is most common in children, because of the lack of protective fatty acids in their scalps. These fatty acids are produced only in adult life and make the scalp of an adult person resistant to ringworm infection. The infection is more frequent in boys than in girls because boys have shorter hair and the scalp is relatively less protected.

The disease spreads on the skin and extends deeper into the hair roots and also up along the hair. The affected hair becomes dull and breaks off near its root. This leaves bald spots on the scalp which may assume a shabby appearance on account of the raised grey scales that protrude from the infected areas. The patches of ringworm on the body are usually round or oval with raised pink and scaly rings which show a clean. space in the centre. The itching in the infected part helps to spread infection through the nails to other healthy parts of the body. If it is not treated for a long time, the infection becomes chronic and is, then, difficult to get rid of.

Ringworm of the body commonly affects the face and the neck. Ringworm of the feet, also known as the ‘athlete’s foot’ is more prevalent in summer. Infection is conveyed from one person to another through common usage of bath mats, bath tubs and swimming pools. The fungus, which causes the ringworm to grow easily in the warm and moist parts of the body, thrives between the toes. It finds a suitable place to live on account of perspiration in this region.

Ringworm Causes

Ringworm is passed from an infected child to a healthy one through contact It may also spread through the use of articles such as towels soap of the infected child Sometimes, it is spread by infected domestic animals, such as dogs and cats.

Ringworm Treatment

The use of suppressive lotions or ointments for the treatment of ringworm may give temporary relief but does not eradicate the root of the disease. The best way to deal with this disease is to cleanse the blood stream and the body.

To begin with, the child should be placed on an all-fruit diet for two or three days. He should take fresh juicy fruits, such as apple, orange, papaya, pineapple and pomegranate, during this period. This will help eliminate morbid matter from the body and lead to substantial improvement, a warm-water enema may be administered during this period to cleanse the bowels, if possible.

Fruits, salt-free, raw or steamed vegetables accompanied with whole wheat chapattis may be taken after the all-fruit diet. After a few days, curd and milk. may be added to the diet. The child­patient may thereafter gradually embark upon a well-balanced diet according to his age. The emphasis should be on whole grain cereals, raw or lightly-cooked vegetables and fresh fruits. This diet may be supplemented with vegetable oils, honey and yeast.

The child should avoid tea, coffee, and all condiments and highly flavored dishes, as well as sugar, white flour products, denatured cereals and tinned or bottled foods.

Video

Home Remedies To Cure Ringworm

1. Mustard Seeds

One of the most effective of these is the use of mustard (raye) seeds. A paste made from these should be applied externally over the areas affected with ringworm. Before application of this paste, the skin -should. ‘be washed thoroughly with. hot water.

2. Papaya

The use of raw papaya has also been found beneficial in the treatment of ringworm. A few slice of this unripe fruit should be rubbed on the ringworm patches twice daily. A paste made from dry seeds of papaya can also be applied beneficially on these patches.

3. Castor Oil

The use of castor (arandi) oil, is valuable in case of ringworm of the head. This oil should be rubbed liberally on the affected parts. Noticeable improvement will take place within two or three days.

4. Juice

Raw vegetable juices, especially carrot juice in combination with spinach juice, have proved beneficial in the treatment of ringworm. The formula proportions considered helpful in this combination are carrot juice 150 ml. and spinach 100 ml. to make 250ml. of combined juice.

5. Water

The child-patient should get as much fresh air as possible. He should drink plenty of water and bath twice daily. The skin with the exception of part affected with ringworm, should be vigorously rubbed with the palms of the hands before taking a bath.

6. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil may be applied to the portions affected with ringworm. It will help the skin to stay soft. Sunbathing is also beneficial and should be resorted to early in the morning. A light mud pack applied over the sites of the ringworm is also helpful. The pack should be applied for half an hour twice daily.

Useful References

• https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ringworm-body/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353786
• https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/diseases/ringworm/treatment.html
• https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/ringworm-myths-facts#1

What is Rectal Itching ?

Rectal Itching is due to irritation of the skin around the anus accompanied by a desire to scratch. The intensity of itching increases with moisture, pressure, and sitting. At its most intense, anal itching causes intolerable discomfort described as burning and soreness.

Few sensations are more unpleasant than having an Itch you can’t reach. Rectal itching is even worse. You don’t want to scratch in public. Even in private, scratching doesn’t always help and often makes the itching worse. Certain foods can increase rectal itching. To help relieve rectal itching, avoid foods such as coffee, tea, colas, alcoholic beverages (including beer), chocolate, tomatoes, spicy foods, and excessive amounts of vitamin C for a minimum of 2 weeks.

Causes of Rectal Itching

Many things cause rectal itching, including hemorrhoids or irritation in the delicate tissues around the anus. Some of the common causes of Rectal Itching are :-

• Skin disorders, such as psoriasis or eczema.
• Diabetes or liver diseases.
• Vaginal infection in women.
• Pinworms.

Symptoms of Rectal Itching

Some common symptoms for Rectal Itching includes :-

• Skin Tag.
• Chronic disease like psoriasis or scabies.

Home Remedies for Rectal Itching

1. Put on some petroleum jelly

An itch where you sit could occur simply because the area is dry. Applying a little petroleum jelly will help moisturize the delicate anal lining and will protect it from further irritation.

2. Douse it with witch hazel

This traditional remedy can be very soothing for an anal itch. Soak a cotton ball in witch hazel and apply it for a few second. You’ll instantly feel a rush of cool relief. It’s safe to apply witch hazel every few hours, or as often as necessary to ease the itch.

If the itch is due to a dry skin, massage with fresh cream and then bath with a mild soap or soap nut solution and warm water.

3. Sit in a warm tub

One of the easiest ways to soothe rectal itching is simply to sit in a warm bath for awhile. Soaking cleanses the area and the warm water increases circulation, which will help you feel better. Since tissues around the anus may be raw or irritated, it’s good idea to soak in plain water. Adding bath beads or oils to the water may make the irritation worse.

4. Orange Peels

Grind dried orange peels to a paste with a little water. Apply for a week.

5. Soap nut decoction.

Take a handful of soap nut. Remove the skin and discard the seeds. Boils this with a glassful of water. Let it cool. Mash the boiled skins and then strain / filter. Your decoction is ready. This is the one of the best remedy to get relief from Rectal Itching.

Useful References

• https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/anal-itch-pruritus-ani
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2647235/

Psoriasis is one of the most stubborn skin diseases. It is characterized by thick, red silvery scaled patches of skin. This disease may appear at any age, though it is rare in infancy and early childhood. The incidence increases throughout childhood, after the age of five years, to reach a peak at adolescence. Girls suffering from this disease outnumber boys by two to one.

Psoriasis Symptoms

Generally, the skin of the child suffering from psoriasis appears red and irritated and may be covered with bright silvery scales. Irritation of the skin is usually slight, but irritation of the mind may be more of a problem as the child is being constantly reminded that he is different from other children. Sometimes there is also a little itching. Scratching may cause fresh lesions. Areas usually involved are elbows, knees, the skin. behind the ears, trunk and scalp. The lesions vary in size from minute papules only just visible, to sheets covering large parts of the body. The. lesions of psoriasis are always dry and rarely become infected.

A special form, guttate psoriasis, is typically seen in children between five and ’12 years old. A rash, mainly on the trunk and consisting of pink maculopapaules, appears 10-20 days after a sore throat. After a few days, the maculopapules become more typically psoriatic. .They can clear up within a few months or lead to chronic psoriasis. Some patients with long-standing psoriasis develop nail changes including small pits on the nail plate and separation of part of the nail from the nail bed. Discoloration of the nail resembling grease spots is also seen.

Psoriasis Causes

Recent studies have shown that psoriasis involves an abnormality in the mechanism in which the skin grows and replaces itself. This abnormality is related to the metabolism of amino acids, the protein chemicals which are nature’s basic building blocks for the reproduction of cell tissues. Some authorities also believe that this disease is caused by lack of essential acids. Heredity also plays a role in the development of this disease and about one-third of patients have a positive family history.

The factors that aggravate and precipitate the outbreak of psoriasis are injury to skin in the form of cut, burn, minor abrasion, changes in the seasons, physical and emotional stress, infections and use of certain oral drugs for the treatment of other diseases.

Video

Home Remedies for Psoriasis

1. Cabbage

The cabbage leaves have been successfully used in the form of compress in the treatment of psoriasis. The thickest and greenest outer leaves are most effective for use as compresses. They should be thoroughly washed in warm water and dried with a towel. The leaves should be made flat, soft and smooth by rolling them with a rolling pin after removing the thick veins. They should be warmed and then applied smoothly to the affected part in an overlapping manner. A pad of soft woollen cloth should be put over it. The whole compress should then be secured with a elastic bandage.

2. Buttermilk

The use of curd in the form of buttermilk has proved useful in psoriasis, and the child-patient should drink it in liberal quantities. The application of buttermilk compresses over the affected parts will also be useful in treating this condition.

3. Avocado

The oil of avocado has been found beneficial in the treatment of this disease. It should be applied gently to the affected parts. The oil extracted from the outer shell of cashew nut has also been found valuable in psoriasis. It is acrid and rubefacient and can be applied beneficially on affected areas.

4. Sea Water

Too frequent baths should be avoided. Soap should not be used. Regular sea-water baths and application of sea water externally over the affected parts once a day are beneficial. After a bath, a little olive oil may be applied. The skin should be kept absolutely clean by dry friction or sponge.

5. Marigold

Boil a handful of marigold flower heads in a litre of water. Cool and use these as swabs on the skin lesions. Bath with soap nut solution.

6. Sunlight

Many psoriasis patients are prescribed a specific regimen of ultraviolet light treatments. Psoriasis responds well to sunlight. The affected parts should be frequently exposed to the sun. The daily use of a sunlamp or ultra-violet light are also beneficial.

7. Jasmine Flower

Use fresh jasmine flower paste to apply on the lesions as a soothing salve.

Useful References

• https://www.psoriasis.org/advance/features/microbiome-how-your-bacteria-affects-psoriasis-psoriatic-arthritis
• http://www.jaad.org/article/S0190-9622(10)00010-1/fulltext
• https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/psoriasis

Pompholyx which is some time also referred as dyshidrosis and dyshidrotic eczema is a skin disorder. Tiny blisters filled with fluid called vesicles appear on our skin in this type of disorder. These fluid filled blisters occur on our palm sole or the feet sole.

These blisters got clear away within a time period of three to four weeks. But when they are present there much discomfort caused by them due to itching. Eventually these blister cracks away when they get dried up. And after that painful groves are formed. That exact cause for the occurrence of this type of disorder is not known. These symptoms could be treated using various options. Various available treatments for Pompholyx are:

• Light therapy using ultra violet rays.
• Wet compresses
• Applying topical creams on the effected areas

Symptoms of Pompholyx

The presence of Pompholyx could be identified by small bumps giving an itchy effect. After some time these bumps are filled with fluid and are now referred as vesicles. Other symptoms of Pompholyx are:

• Pain in the blisters which are larger in size compared to the previous one.
• Pain in the fissures between toes and fingers.

Causes of Pompholyx

Pompholyx could be related to other disorders which are related to skin like atopic dermatitis. People who are more prone to several allergies are likely to be affected by Pompholyx.

Similar to dermatitis there is a sensation of skin inflammation in this disease also. The link which is joining the skin cells to the fluid cells is damaged in this disorder. Now a process called spongiosis occurs. This makes the skin to react like a sponge. In some cases due intense itching and scratching the skin gets damaged.

Pompholyx is more frequently observed in women. The ratio is approximately I women.

The time when you may consult a doctor

Look for days and still if problem persists consult your doctor for the reason. In case you are affected with fever or inflammation then also you should consult the doctor.

Physical examination is enough to identify Pompholyx by a doctor. But for more conformation doctors may also advice you for skin biopsy.

Complications regarding Pompholyx

Pompholyx may stop the work you are doing by your hands. It will make your skin look like a sponge and may damage your skin. In this situation it would take more time for the treatment. The reoccurrence of this disease is very irritating and troublesome.

Home Remedies – Treatments available for Pompholyx

1. Skin protection comes as most important part of its cure. Doctors may advice you use of some creams. This creams helps to enhance the healing speed of your skin.
2. Wet compressors are used to reduce the blisters. This will relieve you from the itching effect.
3. Photo therapy: Doctors use therapy using ultraviolet rays in the situations in which no other medication would work. This therapy is known as psorelen plus ultra violet A.
4. Wear such waterproof gloves during peeling and squeezing lemon, orange or grapefruits, peeling potato, and handling tomato.
5. Other than from this treatment you may avoid this situation by avoiding skin scratches. After washing your hands keep them moisturized.

Useful References

• https://www.dermnetnz.org/topics/pompholyx/
• https://www.dermcoll.edu.au/atoz/pompholyx/

In our common terms we know Miliaria as prickly heat or rashes produced due to sweat. This is a form of skin disease. In Miliaria we get itchy rashes on our skin. Mostly this kind of Disorder in found in those people who are living in tropical regions. This disorder is more effective in the season of summer. Since the sweat glands of small children are still not fully developed, so they are often affected with skin disorder.

Reason for the occurrence of Miliaria

The main reason for the occurrence of Miliaria is that our dead skin cells blocks our sweat glands ducts. This causes the generation of certain bacteria in our sweat gland ducts. This also results in another skin disorder known as Acne. Because the sweat can not come out due to blocking so it gets trapped in the ducts and causes irritation.

Symptoms and appearance of rashes

Symptoms by which Miliaria can be identified are:

Tiny red rashes known as Papules are formed on the skin. These papules cause itching effect in our skin. They cause a very harsh prickling sensation. The common body parts were we could get affected by Miliaria is neck, under arms, and under the breasts. Rashes can also occur in the areas that get constantly rubbed with our clothes.

Never confuse Miliaria with shingles. Shingles affects our body only on one side. If you see the symptoms of shingles, then you should consult your doctor for medication.

Types of Miliaria

Type of Miliaria is decided by the level of blockage of our sweat gland ducts.

1. Miliaria crystalline: This form is a mild form of Miliaria. Small blisters are formed on our skin.
2. Miliaria Rubra: People around the world are affected by this kind of Miliaria. In this kind we get a sensation of inflammation. The rashes get red in color. The blisters formed on our skin are a bit large in size. We get a prickly sensation in such kind of Miliaria. Since our skin is not able to sweat properly in this kind, therefore we would get exhausted very easily. People who are constantly doing activities related to heat are more affected by such kind of Miliaria.
3. Miliaria Profunda: Miliaria Profunda is the most harmful form. It is also called as wild fire because it spreads in our skin very fast. It also gives a burning sensation. This will occur if you are continuously affected Miliaria Rubra. Rashes get a color of flesh in this form.

Prevention and treatment of Miliaria

1. Cool baths and air conditioning are very helpful.
2. Whenever you are affected by Miliaria consult your doctor to rule out the possibility of shingles, as shingles is a very dangerous problem.
3. If the rashes lasts for week this may be severe case. Under such conditions you must follow a proper medication.
4. To avoid Miliaria you must avoid doing the activities which may result in sweat. To avoid further complications the affected people may stay air conditioned and should opt for frequent showers. You may also use certain anti bacterial soaps to reduce the symptoms of Miliaria.

Useful References

• https://www.dermnetnz.org/topics/miliaria/
• https://stanfordmedicine25.stanford.edu/blog/archive/2017/Miliaria.html
• http://www.jaad.org/article/0190-9622(95)91809-4/pdf

The occurrence of Mastocytosis also called as orphan disease is the presence of mast cells. Children and adult both are affected from this disorder equally. And also the occurrence of this disorder in men and women is equal in ratio.

Mast cells

Mast cells are present at the tissues connecting the skin, in the stomach lining, in the intestine and at some more sites. Mast cells prevent these tissues from the infection of any disease. A chemical is released by mast cells which alert the immune defense system to protect the area which is affected by diseases.

Mast cells are very much important for the healing process of an injured area in our body. Mast cells release a chemical which makes a feeling of itching around the injury. Mast cell also contributes in the increase in number of our blood vessels.

Different types of Mastocytosis

When cells are present only in the skin then such kind of disorder is referred to as Cutaneous Mastocytosis. Children are generally affected by urticaria pigmentosa which is a common Cutaneous Mastocytosis type. Telangiectasia Macularis Eruptiva Perstans that is TMEP is type Cutaneous Mastocytosis which is found in adults.

Systematic Mastocytosis is another kind of Mastocytosis. This kind of disorder occurs in the internal body organs like bone marrow, Lymph nodes and spleen including skin.

Symptoms of Mastocytosis

Certain chemicals are released which change our immune system. To results in allergy in our body like abdomen cramping and itching.

If there are too many mast cells present then it could result in following symptoms:

• Low blood pressure
• Skin lesions
• Faintness
• Abdominal discomfort
• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Pain in muscles
• Pain in bones

Causes of Mastocytosis

People of any age level could be affected by Mastocytosis. The chemical released in Mastocytosis is known as histamines. Many factors contribute to the release of histamines. These factors may include use of certain medicines, consuming certain food, heat or rubbing. Mastocytosis could convert itself into its severe form.

Some common factors of risk of Mastocytosis are:

• Presence of very large amount of mast cells in our body parts.
• If the blood is containing any kind of abnormalities.
• If some other person is also affected by Mastocytosis that is the family history.
• Diseases like diarrhea or cancer could also result in Mastocytosis
• Very frequently having low blood pressure.
• Mutation occurring from C-kit receptor.

Diagnosis of Mastocytosis

If you found dark brown lesions on your skin it may be due to urticaria pigmentosa. You must go for a skin biopsy to confirm it.

Blood or urine tests could also indicate the presence of mast cells in a person’s blood.

Treatment of Mastocytosis

Mastocytosis has no treatment for itself but its symptoms could be reduced. Prevention is the most important treatment for Mastocytosis. Any stimulants which could increase your symptoms, try to stay away from them.

People suffering from Mastocytosis are often suffering from depression. Some antidepressant pills could be used to remove the stress of your mind.

Useful References

• https://www.dermnetnz.org/topics/mastocytosis/
• http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0002266
• https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Mastocytosis/

What does Lyme disease mean?

Lyme disease is a disease spread by the biting of the ticks. It is a kind of bacterial infection. If any person is bitten by an infected tick then he or she can get Lyme disease. Lyme disease is not always spread by the infected ticks; there are number of people who get Lyme disease even if they have not been bitten by any tick. And there are number of people who do not suffer from Lyme disease even if they are bitten by the tick. This happens just because of the fact that only an infected tick is capable of spreading Lyme disease. Our suggestion to every one is that if you find any tick sticking to you just through it away from your body. But those who cannot remove the tick must consult their doctors otherwise they may get into the trouble very soon.

The major causes of Lyme disease are stated as follows

Borrelia burgdorferi (B. burgdorferi) germs or bacteria’s are the major cause behind Lyme disease contagion or contamination or infection.

Spreading of Lyme disease has been discussed as follows

Whenever a tick contaminated with the B. burgdorferi germs bites anyone, the person is likely to have or definitely get the Lyme disease. Basically the infection bacteria travel in to the salivary glands of the tick when it bites any person and after that it enters the body of the person through its skin. The studies made by number of scientists have said that a tick takes near about twenty four hours to stick to the skin of human being. In order to transmit the bacteria which causes Lyme disease tick takes near about thirty six to forty eight hours.

The tick does not even leave animals; it can infect dogs, cows and horses with the bacteria which causes Lyme disease. But the good thing is that dogs, cows and horses are real friend of human beings and they cannot transfer the bacteria to them. Basically the story with the tick is that it picks the infection’s bacteria when it bites any infected animal and then it further transfers it to the other animals and human beings. The cases of Lyme disease are very common in the United States of America, Europe, Canada and Asia. One should take care of himself and his family by keeping cleanliness around his house because these ticks can hide in grass and shrubs.

There are few areas in our body which are much more prone to the biting of tick are armpits, at the back of the ears, at the back of the knees, behind the neck and the groin.

The major warning signs of the Lyme disease are discussed as follows

The most visible signs of occurrence of the Lyme disease are the presence of the dark and round spots on the body. These spots become larger in shape and size and take worst form later. So we will suggest every one to keep their surroundings clean and consult their doctor whenever they see any dark and ugly looking spot on their body.

Video

Treatment for Lyme disease

1. Garlic is the super nutrient for fighting infection and viruses, as well as boosting your immune system. For more high powered support, you can take Olive Leave Extract, Oregano Oil, Silver solution, and Bilberry extract.  Something that is helpful with Mono as well is taking Grapefruit Seed Extract, commonly referred to as GSE.
2. “The hot, moist heat of a steam room is good when your body aches all over,” says Dr. Hilton.
3. The herbal combination of Echinacea and Goldenseal is good for combating fevers and other symptoms as well as boosting the immune system.

Useful References

• https://www.cdc.gov/lyme/index.html
• https://medlineplus.gov/lymedisease.html
• http://www.avonhistory.org/bug/l14.htm

Alternative names : Vitiligo and white patches on the skin

What is leucoderma (vitiligo)?

Leucoderma, also known as vitiligo, is a distressing skin condition. The word literally means white skin. There is a gradual loss of pigment melanin from the skin layers which results in white patches. These patches look ugly, especially in persons with dark complexions. Vitiligo is a skin condition in which there is loss of pigment from areas of skin resulting in irregular white patches with normal skin texture. Leucoderma (Vitiligo) is common; in fact 1 to 2% of the general population has it.

The condition does not cause any organic harm. It, however, brings about great psychological tension to the patient who is more embarrassed than the victim of any pain or discomfort. The condition thus, besides being a medical problem, also becomes a social stigma.

Leucoderma is a fairly common disorder and it affects one percent or more of the world’s population. The incidence is a little higher in India. The disorder can occur at any age in either sex in normal skin. It is, however, more common in women than men. The most affected areas are the hands, the neck, the back and the wrist in that order.

Leucoderma Symptoms

The problem usually starts with a small white spot and later on it develops into patches. These patches are pale in the beginning but become whiter and whiter as time passes due to loss of pigment. As spots enlarge, they merge into each other and, in course of time, form a very broad patch. In some cases, most of the skin of the body may be covered with white patches. The spread of the disorder is usually slow and progressive. Symmetrical appearance on both the sides of the body (say, on the legs, hands, etc.) is common. In rare cases one finds vitiligo spreading all over the body.

Leucoderma Causes

The exact cause for the leucoderma (vitiligo) remains unknown. Many wrong beliefs are prevalent about the causes of leucoderma. It is not caused by eating fish and drinking milk at the same time, as is generally believed because even vegetarians suffer from this disorder. Other food combinations such as pumpkin and milk, onion and milk as possible causes of leucoderma also have no basis. leucoderma (vitiligo) is not caused by any germs, nor is it due to bad blood. Some of the possible causes for Vitiligo includes :

• Skin trauma.
• Sunburn.
• Mental worry (stress).
• Heredity is also causative factor and about 30 percent of patients have history of the disorder.
• Physical illness

Is leucoderma contagious?

No! Leucoderma (Vitiligo) is not contagious i.e. it cannot spread by touching someone or even by handling personal belongings or food.

Home Remedies for Leucoderma

1. Psoralea Seeds

The use of seeds of psoralea. Seeds should be steeped in the juice of ginger or cow’s urine for three days. The fluids should be renewed every day. The seeds should then be rubbed with hands to remove their husks, dried in the shade and powdered. One gram of this powder should be taken every day with fresh milk for 40 days continuously. The ground seeds should also be applied to the white spots.

2. Babchi Seeds

Babchi seeds, combined with tamarind seeds, are also useful. Equal quantity of both the seeds should be steeped in water for three to four days. They should then be shelled and dried in the shade. They should be ground into paste and applied to the white patches for a week. If the application of this paste causes itching or the white spots become red and a fluid begins to ooze out, it should be discontinued. If there is no itching or reddening, babchi seeds should be taken also for 40 days.

3. Red Clay

Another useful remedy for leucoderma is red clay found by the river side or on hill slopes. The clay should be mixed in ginger juice and applied over the white spots once a day. The copper contained in the clay seems to bring back skin pigmentation and ginger juice serves as a milk stimulant, facilitating in­creased blood flow to the spots.

4. Radish Seeds

A paste made from the seeds of the radish is valuable in treating leucoderma. About 35 grams of these seeds should be powdered in vinegar and applied on the white patches. For better results, seeds should be finely pounded, mixed with a little white arsenic and soaked in vinegar at night. After two hours, when leaves appear, it should be rubbed on. the leucoderma patches.

5. Turmeric and Mustard Oil

The use of turmeric and mustard oil is also considered beneficial in the treatment of leucoderma. About 500 gms, of turmeric should.be pounded and soaked in eight kgs. of water at night. It should be heated in the morning till only one kg. of water is left. It should then be strained and mixed with 500 gms. of mustard oil. This mixture should be heated till only the oil is left. It should be applied on white patches every morning and evening for a few months.

Prevention tip for Leucoderma

The patient should avoid tea, coffee, alcoholic beverages and all condiments and highly flavoured dishes.

Useful References

• http://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(14)60763-7/fulltext
• https://news.yale.edu/2015/06/24/vitiligo-patient-arthritis-drug-restores-skin-color
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3783942/

In the common language the Lentigines are described as the liver bad skin conditions or liver spots. They are also known with the name sun spots or age spots. The bad skin condition skin is called as age spots just because it is found in the people of some good age lets say in the people of age forty to forty five and these bad skin conditions becomes worst with the age. Lentigines basically are a kind of harmless skin injuries or cuts or lesions which are often seen on the skin of sun exposed parts. They are most commonly seen on the face, back and back of hands.

The injuries which are known as lesions during Lentigines are not regular and their size may vary. The size of each lesion can be from one to two centimeters. The skin in which the lesions are present is flat, there is no outgrowth of skin and they have definite borders. They look really very ugly because of their dark color and irregular shape.

Though Lentigines does not cause any damage to the health of the person but it is a cosmetic problem. Because of these spots person loses his or her confidence and quality of life. As these spots make person look older and thus they make him unconfident.

The major cause of Lentigines occurs due to heavy increase in number of pigment cells in the superficial layer of the skin. But one should remain conscious about the behavior of lesions. If the size of lesions increases gradually or their thickness changes or their color changes, then the person should consult his or her skin expert for the biopsy in order to rule out the existence of skin cancer.

Although according to the survey there is no treatment required for the Lentigines one can live for whole life these spots, but because it’s a cosmetic problem so people opt or look for number of treatments. The other important thing is that in order to prevent the skin from Lentigines one should avoid exposing his or her skin to sun for long duration.

Lentigines Signs and Symptoms

The presence of spots is the only reason or warning sign for the Lentigines else there is no other warning sign. These spots occur in irregular shape look very ugly and are dark in color. Another very important characteristic of these lesions is that they are not overgrowing or they are flat; in simple language they are not grown above the skin. One may see them on the back sides of hands, face and back. The portions of the skin which are often or frequently exposed to the sun are at risk of getting Lentigines. One can feel their presence by looking at him or herself in the mirror. The areas of skin which are never exposed to the sun are never affected by Lentigines at all such as inner thighs are never attacked by the spots of Lentigines.

Home Remedies For Lentigines

1. A very effective treatment for Lentigines is topical application of vitamin C. When vitamin C is used in combination with alpha hydroxyacids, results are better.
2. The latest treatments for Lentigines involve use of alpha hydroxyl acid gels and beta hydroxyl gels. Apply these lotions on the dark spots twice a day; in the morning and at night.
3. Lemon juice is another effective cure. Due to its natural bleaching properties it helps to fade the spots within weeks. Simply dab the juice on your skin twice a day and then wash it off after about an hour. Watch the spots fade away in weeks.
4. Treatment of solar Lentigines with a focal medium-depth chemicals’ peel might be clinically superior as compared to treatments with cryosurgeries. Vitamin C, an antioxidant and vitamin C would help tissue repairing and hence, advised to be taken 15mg a day for 1-2 months.
5. Castor oil will have the same effect on the age spots as lime juice and Aloe Vera will. In the case of castor oil, you need to massage the oil into your skin twice a day and do not wash it off.

Useful References

• https://www.dermnetnz.org/topics/lentigo/
• http://www.aocd.org/?page=Lentigines

Impetigo is an extremely contagious skin infection. This is essentially a disease of childhood, though it may also occur frequently in adults. It is usually prevalent in infants and younger children following a cold. The infection can spread rapidly from one child to another by close contact, especially during the early years in schools. The disease is more common in the areas with unhygienic conditions.

Impetigo Symptoms

At first, impetigo appears as a small fluid-filled vesicle usually around the nose or lips. The infection can spread to other parts of the face and occasionally other parts of the body by the child’s irresistible urge to scratch, and also due to presence of bacteria in large numbers. The vesicle rapidly crusts over, forming a’ yellowish scab which can be easily knocked-off, leaving a raw, weeping surface.

Impetigo Causes

Impetigo is caused by staphylococci and occasionally by streptococci germs. The organism can spread quickly, particularly among children, causing an outbreak of the disease. Impetigo may also occur as a secondary phenomenon in atopic eczema, scabies and head-louse infestation.

The real cause of the disease, however is constitutional, resulting from malnutrition due to wrong and unhygienic habits of living. It is easily passed from the affected child to other children, who are in a similar sate of toxicity and impaired vitality, through contact.

Home Remedies to Cure Impetigo

Early and adequate treatment of the first small patch of impetigo can prevent the spread of the disease. The child patient should be kept isolated until the condition is cleared up, so as to prevent the spread of infection. He should be prevented from scratching the scabs. He should have his own sponge and towel. No other member of the family should use these articles. They should be changed frequently and washed separately. The use of harsh detergent should be avoided clothes should be thoroughly rinsed.

1. Turnip

The use of turnip (salgum) is one such remedy. A few chopped turnip pieces after thorough cleaning should be immersed in rice starch (kangi) or any natural vinegar for about six hours. They should then be eaten by the patient.

2. Garlic

Garlic is useful in relieving constant itching caused by this disease. This vegetable should be crushed and spread over irritated areas. One or two cloves of garlic should be chewed for better results. This helps in to the impetigo.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar

Dip a cotton ball into the mixture of 2-3 drops of apple cider vinegar 1 spoon of water and put it over the areas affected by impetigo.

4. Turmeric

Mix 1 teaspoon ground turmeric with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil and dab onto affected areas.

Useful References

• https://medlineplus.gov/impetigo.html
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5124450/
• https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/contagious-skin-diseases/impetigo
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3874089/