(November 17, 2008 - Insidermedicine) A plant-based powder used in traditional Chinese medicine called indigo naturalis may help treat psoriasis, according to a small study in the Archives of Dermatology.

Here is some information about psoriasis:

•    It is a noncontagious skin disease the most common form of which is called plaque psoriasis.

•    Plaque psoriasis is characterized by raised, inflamed, red lesions covered by silvery white scales.

•    Most of the time lesions occur on the elbows, knees, scalp, and/or lower back.

Researchers from Chang Gung University in Taiwan recruited 42 people with plaque psoriasis to use an ointment containing indigo naturalis on one lesion and an ointment containing no indigo naturalis on a different lesion for 12 weeks.

On average, the lesions treated with indigo naturalis improved by 81%, compared with only 26% for those lesions treated with the other ointment. Among those who completed the study, 74% saw their treated lesion completely disappear, and none found that the indigo naturalis worsened their condition.

Today’s research demonstrates the potential for indigo naturalis to be used as a treatment for plaque psoriasis. A more potent extract may be even more effective.

For Insidermedicine in Depth, I'm Dr. Susan Sharma.