Turmeric is being used as an anecdotal solution for its potential role in managing Topical Steroid Withdrawal (TSW). Turmeric is a flowering plant of the ginger family, Zingiberaceae, native to the Indian subcontinent. Turmeric root is used extensively in Asian cuisine for flavoring and coloring. TSW is a complex illness and more research is required around the efficacy of Turmeric.
Topical steroid withdrawal is a complex health phenomena that can be described as a series of symptoms associated with the gradual or abrupt cessation of topical corticosteroid use. Symptoms of TSW can include red, itchy, and inflamed skin, as well as fatigue, anxiety, and depression. There is no known cure for TSW, but throughout Facebook groups and online communities, some people are suggesting that Turmeric can help to relieve the symptoms. Please keep reading before you attempt to use Turmeric to assist with Topical Steroid Withdrawal.
Turmeric for Eczema and Psoriasis
Eczema and Psoriasis are the most common underlying skin conditions of people with Topical Steroid Withdrawal. Although it is difficult to separate the symptoms of TSW from Eczema and Psoriasis, communities online are suggesting the use of Turmeric to potentially improve their symptoms.
What is Turmeric?
Turmeric is a plant belonging to the ginger family. It grows in tropical regions and has been used in Asia for centuries as a spice and medicinal herb. The main active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin, which has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Turmeric is a powerhouse when it comes to health benefits. This common spice has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments. It is also known as Curcuma longa, Indian saffron, and haldi. Turmeric is a member of the ginger family and is closely related to cardamon and galangal. The spice is made from the dried root of the plant and has a yellow-orange color.
What are the benefits of Turmeric for Eczema?
Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. This compound may help to reduce the redness, itching, and swelling associated with eczema. With this effect skin infections may be prevented.
Can Turmeric help with psoriasis?
Psoriasis may cause irritation. Curcumin is also a powerful antioxidant, meaning it may help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. Symptoms of psoriasis may lessen because of this ingredient. A study was conducted that Turmeric may help on skin conditions such as psoriasis.
How is Turmeric used?
Turmeric is available in capsules, tablets, teas, and extracts. It may also be used as a spice when cooking. There are a lot of dishes where Turmeric may be used. Indians use this ingredient to give additional flavor on the dishes that they cook. It also makes Asian cuisines tasty. Turmeric may be taken orally or applied topically to the skin. When applied to the skin, turmeric may help to soothe the inflammation and itching associated with psoriasis and eczema. A lot of people experiencing these symptoms may give them comfort and relief. When used topically, turmeric may be made into a paste and applied to the affected area. It is important to test a small area first to make sure there is no allergic reaction. For those with sensitive skin, it may be necessary to add a little bit of water to the paste.
Turmeric is an amazing spice that may be used in many different dishes. It has a strong flavor, so it is best used in small amounts. When using turmeric in food, it is important to choose recipes that may compliment the spice. Curries and rice dishes are often great choices for turmeric. Another way to use turmeric is to make tea. This can be done by boiling water and adding a teaspoon of turmeric. Allow the tea to steep for several minutes before drinking. You may also combine it with other ingredients, such as coconut oil or aloe vera gel. It may give an additional color and flavor on your favorite teas.
Turmeric is generally considered safe when taken by mouth or applied to the skin. However, some people may experience side effects, including:
- Stomach upset
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Headache
- Rash
If you experience any of these side effects, stop taking turmeric and speak with your doctor. You may also be allergic to turmeric if you experience hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing after coming into contact with the spice. If you have an allergy to turmeric, avoid using it both internally and externally.
Turmeric may also interact with certain medications, so it’s important to speak with your doctor before taking it if you’re on any medications. Additionally, turmeric supplements may contain contaminants or other harmful substances. Therefore, it’s best to get your turmeric from food sources rather than supplements.
Turmeric is generally considered safe for most people. However, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid taking large amounts of turmeric, as it may stimulate contractions of the uterus. It may be helpful for some but advice from your healthcare provider may be important.
Does Turmeric help with Topical Steroid Withdrawal?
Turmeric has not been specifically studied or proven to assist in people with topical steroid withdrawal (TSW). Although anecdotally, some people suggest it may help with TSW, we are collecting information to understand if there is a trend of success with Turmeric.
Topical Steroid Withdrawal is a highly complex health condition caused by an adverse reaction to the cessation of prescribed steroid creams. Because TSW is an iatrogenic illness, currently there is no known cure, standardized medical treatment, or support for sufferers. Many people suffering with Topical Steroid Withdrawal are turning to online groups and Facebook forums to try an array of products, therapies and solutions to manage their inflammation of their skin during this withdrawal period from topical steroids. The challenge we are seeing is that there is no tracking of the efficacy of Turmeric and other anecdotal solutions.
At TSW Assist, we are aiming to discover the collective efficacy of anecdotal recommendations from the TSW community. We hope to identify trending solutions that may be helpful in assisting with the symptoms experienced during topical steroid withdrawal.
Learn more about the crowd-sourced solutions and treatments for topical steroid withdrawal that are trending as helpful.
More research is required to understand the benefits of Turmeric for TSW
If you are considering using Turmeric for Topical Steroid Withdrawal, it is important to understand that more research is needed to understand its efficacy. Although some people may have success with Turmeric in treating their eczema or psoriasis, further clinical studies are required for TSW.
Through the TSW Assist website, we hope to share crowd-sourced information on the efficacy or inefficacy of Turmeric in helping TSW, as well as other solutions that may help.
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