Yellow Spice Eases Skin Problem

Q. Six months ago my doctor diagnosed me with psoriasis and prescribed creams and lotions. I searched the Internet and found that some people use the spice turmeric to treat this skin problem.
After one day taking turmeric I quit the topicals because my itching had stopped. Soon my psoriasis disappeared from my scalp and my body has started to clear. This stuff is the bomb!
It is natural and safe and so much better than the creams. Why don’t doctors tell us about this remedy, instead of just prescribing topical drugs?
A. Doctors like evidence. While there are many testimonials on the benefits of the yellow spice turmeric or its active ingredient curcumin, placebo-controlled trials are inconclusive (Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, April, 2008).
Taking turmeric is not always safe. Some people develop an allergic reaction, and patients on Coumadin should avoid turmeric because of a possible interaction.
Another reader is pleased, though: “My daughter had psoriasis on the soles of her feet with open sores that steroid creams and Dovonex did not heal. After two frustrating years, I made an ointment by mixing pure curcumin powder in Vaseline. I applied it thickly every night and covered it with bandages. Her feet were stained yellow from this mixture but we didn’t mind because her psoriasis was healing.
“Within three months her feet were clear and have remained so for six years. Curcumin pills now keep her condition under control.”