Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects the skin, causing red, scaly patches to develop. According to Pfizer, it is estimated that approximately 125 million people worldwide are living with psoriasis. What's concerning is that a significant number of individuals may be unaware that they have this condition. While anyone can develop psoriasis at any age, certain factors can increase the likelihood of developing this condition.
It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, speeding up the process of cell turnover. Instead of taking weeks for new skin cells to form and rise to the surface, they are produced within days, resulting in an accumulation of dead skin cells on the surface of the skin.
Figure: Progression of Psoriasis on the Skin
The rapid buildup of these dead cells leads to characteristic symptoms such as thickened patches known as plaques. These plaques often appear raised with silver or white scales on top, giving them their distinct appearance.
The affected areas may be itchy or painful and are commonly found on the elbows, knees, scalp, lower back, and genitals. One of these factors is a family history of psoriasis. Research has shown that individuals with a close relative who has psoriasis are more likely to be susceptible. This suggests that genetic components are also involved in the development of psoriasis.
Figure: How Psoriasis Scales Develop by Looking Underneath the Skin
Another factor that can increase susceptibility to psoriasis is having a weakened immune system. People with conditions such as HIV/AIDS or undergoing immunosuppressive therapy after an organ transplant are at a higher risk of developing this skin disorder. Additionally, people who have experienced certain infections, particularly streptococcal throat infections, may also have an increased risk of developing psoriasis.
Despite its prevalence, psoriasis often goes unnoticed or ignored by a lot of patients, who dismiss it as a minor problem. However, this misconception couldn't be further from the truth.
Because psoriasis is not just a skin problem, it can have far-reaching effects on one's overall health and well-being.
One of the most common complications associated with untreated psoriasis is psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Up to 30% of individuals with psoriasis will develop PsA, which causes inflammation and stiffness in joints like the fingers. Research has shown that individuals with psoriasis are at an increased risk of developing other serious conditions, such as transmutable diseases from bacteria or viruses and even certain types of cancer, due to the exposure of the underneath layers of the skin close to the bloodstream and internal organs.
Figure: Exposed Skin Caused by Psoriasis is Prone to Infection
If left unmanaged, PsA can result in permanent joint damage and disability. Living with constant itchiness and pain caused by psoriatic lesions can significantly impact the patient’s quality of life by disturbing them with discomfort when performing daily activities. People with untreated psoriasis may experience psychological distress as well. Such conditions include depression and anxiety. Both can be experienced by the patient due to the visible nature of the skin condition, which stems from societal discrimination. Therefore, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial to avoiding further complications.
Despite significant advancements in medical research, finding an effective treatment for psoriasis remains an ongoing challenge. Currently, there are several treatments available that manage to alleviate symptoms and manage flare-ups temporarily.
Based on statistics, the sales gathered for psoriasis medications are increasing every year. Meaning that as the number of people with psoriasis increases every year, previous patients who used medications are not treated and become dependent on the short-term effects of the current available medications on the market. Some patients would even switch brands to see if they would get better and longer relief from other products, which mostly have the same results.
Topical treatments such as corticosteroids and vitamin D analogs are commonly prescribed to reduce inflammation and control the excessive growth of skin cells. While moisturizers and emollients can promise to soothe the dryness and itching associated with psoriasis.
For more severe cases or when topical treatments fail to yield satisfactory results, systemic medications are being used. These include oral medications like cyclosporine or methotrexate, which work by suppressing the immune system's response that triggers psoriasis flare-ups. Unfortunately, these systemic treatments can have adverse side effects on the liver and may not work for everyone, leaving patients with additional impairment due to the strong chemical side effects or disrupting the normal function of the immune system.
One of the world's top dermatologists has made a groundbreaking discovery for the treatment of psoriasis. She has identified a compound that shows promising results in alleviating the symptoms and flare-ups associated with this chronic skin condition. The compound has shown remarkable efficacy in clinical trials.
Terpinen-4-ol is derived from natural sources, mainly from the leaves and branches of Australian tea tree. Known for its potent effect, it can also be found in smaller quantities in other sources, such as eucalyptus, pine, and cajeput. Its extraction involves steam distillation, where the volatile compounds are separated and collected.
Figure: Terpinen-4-ol Extraction through Steam Distillation Method
Terpinen-4-ol has shown promising therapeutic effects in treating psoriasis. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties help alleviate the symptoms associated with this chronic skin condition.
The compound works by reducing inflammation, which is the main symptom of psoriasis. It inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, preventing the immune response that leads to the formation of psoriatic plaques. Additionally, its antimicrobial activity helps prevent secondary infections, which worsen the condition of patients and are common in individuals with psoriasis.
Figure: Elimination of Inflammatory Cytokines and Enzymes Causing Psoriatic Symptoms
Through meticulous testing and analysis, the dermatologist was able to extract and concentrate this powerful compound into an oil-based solution called Melifia™. A clinical trial was conducted for terpinen-4-ol on a group of psoriasis patient volunteers.
More than 90 percent of the group experienced positive improvements with reduced itch and flare sensations. They have also observed that the psoriatic plaques became smaller in size. This breakthrough formulation offers new hope for patients by providing a safe and effective treatment to resolve the skin irritation brought on by psoriasis using a targeted solution. Traditional treatments often fall short of providing long-lasting relief from the distressing symptoms of psoriasis. However, with the development of Melifia™, patients will finally find solace from their persistent struggles!
Figure: Showcasing the Improvement of a Volunteer using Melifia™ from a Psoriasis Patient
In summary, the long-awaited solution that psoriasis patients have been waiting for is finally here using Melifia™. With its natural formula of Australian tea tree, this product’s advancement offers effective relief from the symptoms of psoriasis. It targets dry, itchy, and flaky skin using a unique, potent ingredient called terpinen-4-ol that works to soothe the skin by reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
Day 1
Mira used to be a jolly person when she was a child. After years of suffering from psoriasis and going into adulthood, she experienced frequent discrimination from society. Mira loves to jog every morning to breathe fresh air, but she got used to keeping herself away from others because people on the streets were avoiding her and scared of being close to her. However, a fortunate day blessed Mira to meet an herbalist who dedicated half of his life to studying medicinal plants that are unknown to others for their benefits. This herbalist handed Mira a vial of purified Australian tea tree extract called Melifia™ which he got from a world renowned dermatologist and advised her to apply it to her skin regularly. After the first use, Mira was surprised that the itch of her psoriasis was gone in just a few minutes!
Day 10
More than a week has passed, and Mira rarely experiences the itch on her skin after applying the Melifia™ Australian tea tree extracts every day. The psoriasis patches became smaller in size, and there was less pain compared to before using the plant essence. Mira was happy that her condition is less prevalent now and that her appearance can be ignored by people she meets on the street. She started gaining her confidence back away from the discriminating eyes of society that used to intimidate her when she saw their reaction towards her.
Day 21
Mira never imagined that one day she would live normally again and be able to do her favorite morning routine, which is to jog on the streets, without having to worry about anything. What was surprising is that before, people’s stares were all about fear and disgust. But after finding the resolution using Australian tea tree, people on the street now gazed at her with admiration for her stunning look. Mira is very happy to take these gazes as a compliment, which signifies that her life has undergone a complete transformation with the help of Melifia™!
"I cannot express my gratitude enough for the Australian tea tree extract given to me by the herbologist. It has been a true lifesaver for my psoriasis-stricken skin. The relief I have experienced from the relentless itch and pain is nothing short of miraculous. Melifia™ has become an indispensable part of my daily routine. This vial of such a potent solution is commendable. I am amazed at how quickly the extract started soothing my itchy skin. The results have been remarkable after 3 weeks. Now I can finally enjoy a moment of peace without the constant discomfort!"
- Mira R., 21, from California