Lichen Planus
Natural Remedies

Lichen Planus - Editor's Choice

| Modified on Mar 05, 2024
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Natural lichen planus treatments involves the combination of several treatments, such as dietary changes and certain remedies like comfrey root oil, that are applied to the site of the condition.

What is Lichen Planus?

An inflammatory condition that targets the skin and mucous membranes, lichen planus often causes pain and itching in sensitive areas. Typically characterized by purplish, flat-topped bumps on the skin, lichen planus can also affect the mouth, vagina and other areas covered by a mucous membrane. In these areas, lichen planus often presents as white lacy patches that sometime translate into painful sores.

While the specific symptoms of lichen planus depend on the area affected, several common symptoms regularly occur. On the external skin, typically the forearm, wrist and ankle, the condition often presents as purplish, flat-topped bumps. White spots typically appear in the mouth, on the cheeks, near the gums and lips or on the tongue. Other common symptoms include itching, blisters that burst and form scabs or crusts, painful oral or vaginal ulcers, hair loss, scalp discoloration and nail damage or loss.

The exact cause of lichen planus is not currently known; however, research suggests that the condition has a strong relationship to inflammation controlled by the immune system. Certain conditions have been identified as possible triggers for the condition in some people. The hepatitis C infection, hepatitis B vaccine and flu vaccine may be possible triggers of lichen planus. Additional factors that may lead to lichen planus include certain pigments, chemicals and metals, anti-inflammatory drugs and certain medications.

Holistic Treatment for Lichen Planus

Typical lichen planus treatment involves the combination of several treatments. Stress may contribute to the condition, so reducing stress is an important lifestyle change. Dietary changes may also help including eliminating sugar and yeast. Specific treatment options include borax, tea tree oil, lavender oil, coconut oil and comfrey root ointment. Applied to the site of inflammation, these offer relief and treatment. Vitamin K, vitamin D and baking soda are also options for curing the condition.


The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.

Comfrey

Posted by Georgina (Tolmie, Victoria, Australia) on 04/22/2013
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

I have had the condition Lichen Sclerosis for approx. 15 years but about 6 weeks ago a blister type sore erupted over an old childhood scar on my left shin. It was extremely itchy and rapidly grew in size and redness. My doctor informed me it was Lichen Planus and wrote out a prescription for cortisone ointment. Not wanting to use such a toxic medication I tried various other more natural preparations such as Witch Hazel and Calamine Lotion. Nothing worked and the area affected was rapidly increasing. I then decided to make some Comfrey Root Ointment.

Eight days ago I commenced treatment by spreading the ointment on a cotton pad and taped it firmly over the Lichen Planus area. I changed the pad morning and night. The result has been nothing short of miraculous. The itching disappeared almost immediately the first pad was applied. Since then the size of the sore has gradually moved inwards and the surrounding tissue is now a very pale pink. It looks healthy and I may even end up losing the original scar. I am seriously considering using it on my Lichen Sclerosis. The ointment was simplicity itself to make.

A good guide is to go to You Tube and look up 'How to make Comfrey Ointment Part 1' (Part 2 is also there). It is a demonstration by someone called Sue Goodwin. I followed her instructions and it was so easy. At the end of the process I added some essential oil of lavender, just to make it smell nice really. As long as you have some Comfrey Root you can access you can make at least three jars using the method shown.

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Update 04/25/2013

It is now 12 Days since I started using it on my Lichen Planus and each day it gets smaller and healthier looking. As with all herbal remedies I will continue with the ointment until it is well and truly cleared up.



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