MAHA SARAKHAM, 27 May 2015 – Researchers from Mahasarakham University have discovered the world’s first herbal tea formula used to control and relieve symptoms of psoriasis.
A press conference was held with University Rector Supachai Samuppito, Dean of the Faculty of Technology Anuchita Mungngarm, and Prof. Siriporn Lawan with the health nutrition research unit. Patients from the Sakon Nakhon province were also invited to attend the news hearing.
Prof. Siriporn headed the herbal formula’s research & development. He explained that psoriasis is a chronic skin disease, whose symptoms include thick skin with red blotches, spots, and flaking. No definitive cause has ever been discovered, but studies have shown it may be related to genetic disorders, metabolic abnormalities, or the skin’s immune system.
While, psoriasis cannot be fully cured, and there are many forms of treatment. Patients can choose a combination of oral medication, injections and light therapy.
The response to psoriasis therapy can vary from patient to patient. They often require lifelong treatment, which can prove costly over time.
The use of herbal tea is an ideal long-term treatment for patients, because of its low toxicity. The tea is a combination of Thai and Chinese herbal medicine, with oleanolic acid that moisturizes the skin and has anti-inflammatory properties. It is also an antioxidant and was developed as a safe anesthetic. This fights psoriasis symptoms, such as itching, inflammation and peeling of the skin.
Mrs. Thanika Kotabin, the mother of a patient from Sakon Nakhon, said her son had been undergoing psoriasis treatments for the past three years at various medical institutes. Doctors confirmed that the disease was incurable.
However, Dr.Siriporn heard of her son’s case and contacted her regarding the experimental herbal tea. After two months of treatment, the patient’s symptoms were eliminated and he could go back to school.