DERMATITIS
Dermatitis is a term that implies inflammation of the skin. Many skin conditions are considered to have unknown causes by standard medical practitioners. In my experience, many of these reddened, itchy, irritated rashes are due to poor detoxification by the liver. Since nearly all ingested chemicals must be chemically altered by the liver before they can be excreted, the liver has a huge burden of toxins to process. In many people, the capacity of the liver to detoxify is exceeded.
The skin is known to be another organ of detoxification. When the liver is unable to remove toxins effectively, the skin does so by incorporating toxins into the skin cells. The skin cells migrate from the base of the skin to the surface and slough off daily. An estimated 8 pounds of skin are shed yearly. The high levels of toxins in the skin can lead to inflammation and rashes.
For people with ill-defined dermatitis, as well as better known disorders such as psoriasis, rosacea and eczema, a trial of supplements to boost liver detoxification is warranted. Milk thistle is an herb that contains silymarin and silybinin. These chemicals boost detoxification enzymes in the liver. Alpha lipoic acid is a potent anti-oxidant that supports liver function. N-acetyl cysteine is an amino acid that is used in cases of liver poisoning by acetaminophen (Tylenol). Fenugreek seed, kale, broccoli, carrots, tillandsia, cayenne pepper, Oregon grape root, Spanish black radish and celandine all have chemicals that boost liver phase I or II detoxification pathways. These foods and herbs are often formulated into products to boost liver detoxification.
In order to achieve best results, the level of exposure to toxic chemicals should be reduced as low as possible. Eat organic foods, drink pure water, use organic body care products, minimize exposure to workplace chemicals and use nontoxic household products. The toxins that the liver processes will come out through the urine or feces. Take a fiber supplement and avoid constipation.
An adequate intake of omega-3 oils is necessary for good skin health. These can be obtained from walnuts, flax seeds and fish oil. Food allergy and intolerance can contribute to skin disorders. If liver detoxification support in ineffective, a food elimination dietary trial may resolve symptoms. In difficult cases, consult a dermatologist or an alternative health practitioner for guidance.
Daniel Blodgett MD