Vitiligo is the medical term for a skin condition caused as a result of hypo-pigmentation. The condition occurs when there is fault in the production of melatonin and this directly affects the coloring of the skin. The fault occurs when the autoimmune bodies attack the cells responsible for production of melatonin and destroy them.
This destruction causes white patches on any part of the skin. Herbs can help treat vitiligo to a certain extent as they strengthen the immune system and sensitize the skin to the darkening effects of UV rays from the sun, which automatically improves the skin color.
Effective Herbal Remedies For Vitiligo
Ginkgo Biloba
Gingko biloba is used for treating vitiligo because it relieves the oxidative stress responsible for the condition. The herb balances out the ratio between free radicals and the antioxidants present in the body. Vitiligo occurs when the quantity of free radicals is more than that of anti-oxidants. Gingko stimulates the production of antioxidants and treats vitiligo. Take 40 mg of ginkgo supplements three times a day to improve the skin discoloration.
Khella
Khella is an herbal plant that is found in regions of North Africa, Europe and Asia. The herb is normally used in the treatment of urinary stones as well as for treating asthma. The herb contains khellin, an active compound that is beneficial in treating vitiligo. The herb also increases photosensitivity to the sun thereby helping darken the patches created by vitiligo. It is best to talk to your doctor about using khella for treatment of the condition since there are some severe side effects associated with the use of the herb.
Black Pepper Oil
A natural and effective treatment of vitiligo is through use of black pepper oil because the herb contains piperine as an active compound. This compound is responsible for the spicy taste to black pepper and studies have shown that it can be useful in the treatment of vitiligo as well. Topical application of piperine causes an increase in pigmentation of the skin since the compound encourages activity of the dormant melanocytes that are present in the skin. Apply black pepper essential oil on the white patches of the skin 3-4 times a day.
Picorrhiza Kurroa
Ayurvedic medicine popularly makes use of picorrhiza kurroa for treating vitiligo and its causes. The herb is used in combination with other medications and treatments to correct vitiligo as it has immune modulating effect on the body. The herb also has photosensitizing chemicals that can improve the white patches on the skin by causing re-pigmentation. However, the herb can cause severe skin itching and should be used only under medical supervision.
Tea Tree Essential Oil
Tea tree essential oil is believed to be beneficial in the treatment of vitiligo because of its anti-microbial and immune stimulating effects. However, tea tree treatment of vitiligo is only topical and should be used in combination with other form of internal treatment. Use pure tea tree essential oil for treating vitiligo but always use the oil by mixing it with carrier oil like olive, almond or coconut. Clean the area to be treated and apply the herbal oil mix using cotton ball. Repeat treatment 2-3 times every day.
