Apple Cider And Other Foods That Treat Actinic Keratosis

With natural remedies becoming the mainstream in health and wellness, many people are turning to options other than those found in the medicine cabinet for treating Actinic Keratosis. Apple cider vinegar is one of the most popular natural treatments some people have claimed as effective, and there are several other grocery store items which can be used to treat the condition. Read on to find out what they are, how they work, and how they are used.

Prevention

Prevention is the main thing to consider in order to avoid skin conditions. They can be more than just visually unappealing, as disorders like actinic keratosis can develop into skin cancer. Taking precautions to avoid damaging rays from the sun include regular use of sunscreen, covering the skin or wearing UV-protective clothing, and covering the head and face with a hat or umbrella. Spending less time in the sun and tanning beds are also recommended.

Vitamins

Proper diet maintains an adequate balance of vitamins and minerals which are essential for skin health. A deficiency can be caused by a lack of healthy food, toxic food, or a weak digestive system. Those with actinic keratosis should be conscious of getting enough Vitamin A and zinc. Five servings of fruits and vegetables are a standard recommendation. Omega-3s and fatty acids found in olive oil, fish oil, and fish are also helpful for maintaining healthy skin.

Milkweed

The sap from milkweed can be used for treating various skin lesions, including those of actinic keratosis. It comes out of the stem, so after a small cut is made, a drop can be applied to the affected area two times per day. A typical process usually occurs with the first day of redness, followed by swelling, oozing, drying, and scabbing. It is best to try it out first with a very small drop.

Eggplant

This purple vegetable may be helpful for treating actinic keratosis using a simple recipe. Mince an eggplant into fine pieces and put them in a jar. Fill with enough apple cider vinegar to cover the eggplant and store in the refrigerator for about three days. The vinegar will turn a darker shade, which means it is ready to use. Apply to the area with a cotton ball multiple times daily.

Castor Oil

Castor oil is another of nature's oils harvested from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plants. Its thick and sticky texture makes it ideal to put on the skin where it stays in place on its own. It also hydrates deep into the skin. It can be applied with a cotton ball or dabbed on with the fingers in a thin, even layer. Castor oil contains antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory materials and could start to work within one or two weeks.

Tea Tree Oil

Although not considered a food, tea tree oil, when mixed with virgin coconut oil, has lead to successful results among people affected by actinic keratosis. The coconut oil acts to dilute the potency of the tea tree oil, which tends to dry out the skin. The mixture can be applied to the affected area as needed multiple times per day and might take some time of regular use to see results.

Milk Thistle

Milk thistle is a herb known more for its healing powers for conditions associated with the liver, heart, and diabetes, but it is also an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties. The phytochemicals found in milk thistle are considered beneficial in combating UV light-induced oxidative stress on the skin. Too much exposure can lead to actinic keratosis and skin cancer but the herb, applied as directed, can help reverse or reduce damage.

Green Tea

Another of nature's healthy remedies is green tea and the properties found within it. Drinking it benefits the skin from the inside out and applying it directly to the skin allows the astringent properties to work on contact. Actinic keratosis is often the result of a sunburn, so putting a green tea bag on the area immediately following the sun's damaging rays will help mitigate further skin damage. Watch for any signs of irritation or allergic reactions.

Organic Virgin Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has become popular for its many holistic remedies, including removing spots from actinic keratosis from the face, forehead, nose, scalp, and neck. A small amount can be applied directly on the area once daily, and although it may take up to a month to see results, the coconut oil should eventually work to lighten the spots. Take note it may initially create a burning sensation and turn the spots red.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar can be used both topically and by consumption at the same time. To rid the skin of its dry, sloughing state, dab the affected area with a cotton ball dipped in apple cider vinegar and cover with a bandage. Some use regular bottled varieties, while others use unpasteurized. It may feel unpleasant at first, but consistent use may pay off. Drinking water mixed with apple cider vinegar and half a teaspoon of honey is also an option.