Are you worried about white patches on your skin? These patches can develop in any area of your body part like face, neck, hands, feet, etc. that is because of the loss of pigment called melanin. Melanin is responsible for giving color to your skin. The immune system by mistake attacks melanin and turns on melanocyte cells. Oxidative stress is one reason to destroy melanocyte. Vitiligo is generally treated with medication. But if you are looking for some natural remedies to fight the condition then there are many. Don’t forget that these are only mild antidotes and you have to be patient.
Fig leaf juice- Fig leaf juice has been used to treat vitiligo traditionally. Fig leaves are loaded with bergapten and psoralen, these are bioactive compound which can treat white patches. These leaves are used in the form of paste and powdered form of roots.
Black cumin oil- Apply black cumin oil to treat affected area. Over the time skin color improved. Thymoquinone compound in cumin seeds is responsible for this effect. It protects skin from oxidative stress. It also stimulates the chemical which is responsible for skin darkening and melanin release.
Kutki- Scientifically known as Picrorhiza kurroa or kutki used in Ayurveda to treat white patches. This herb is enriched with immune-modulating and antioxidant properties. The powdered form of the root of this herb along with photo chemotherapy gives better results to treat the disorder.
Fern extract– Try fern extract to treat vitiligo. The Scientific name of Fern is Polypodium leucotomos. The antioxidant and immunomodulatory property of this herb helps to treat vitiligo naturally. Patients who consume fern thrice a day and take UVB photo therapy twice a week show better results than who don’t.
Ghee infused with Black pepper- Pepperine present in black pepper works strongly on melanocyte expansion. In Ayurveda Black pepper, leadwort root, pippali, and dried ginger, all are fermented in cow’s urine and then use topically to treat white patches. It is also suggested to take ghee with black pepper. Add 10 pepper in 10 gms of ghee and make the preparation on simmer. Then remove pepper and use ghee along with your meals.
Food rich in Vitamin B12 and folic acid- Eat green leafy vegetables, dried peas, citrus fruits, and beans. These veggies are the rich source of folate and help in deregulating the formation of homocysteine. It is found that folic acid and vitamin improve the skin by repigmentation.
It is necessary to use natural sunscreen if you have vitiligo. Speak to your doctor about sun exposure or photo therapy and increase the intake of folic acid, zinc, and Vitamin 12. Take care!