Lichen Sclerosus

Remedies to heal lichen sclerosus

Elaine Godley

Last Update a month ago

Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition primarily affecting genital areas, with unclear etiology but multifactorial origins. Medical treatments focus on symptom management, while natural approaches aim to reduce inflammation and support immune health. Below is a detailed breakdown of root causes, medical remedies, and evidence-based natural solutions.


Root Causes


 Lichen sclerosus arises from a combination of factors: - 


**Genetic predisposition**: Family history increases risk, with 12% of patients having relatives affected[2]. 


**Autoimmune dysfunction**: Strong association with autoimmune diseases like thyroiditis, diabetes type 1, and vitiligo[2]. 


**Hormonal imbalances**: Low estrogen (common in menopause) and testosterone deficiency are linked to LS development[2][4]. 


**Oxidative stress**: DNA damage and lipid peroxidation from oxidative stress contribute to skin lesions[1]. 


**Local trauma**: Koebner phenomenon (lesions at injury sites) from scratching or friction exacerbates LS[2].


**Infections**: Controversial links to *Borrelia burgdorferi* (Lyme disease) and HPV[2].



Top 10 Natural Solutions Evidence-supported complementary approaches:


1. **Anti-inflammatory diet**: Eliminate gluten, processed foods, alcohol, and caffeine to reduce inflammatory cytokines[5][6].

2. **Probiotics**: *Lactobacillus reuteri* RC-14 and *L. rhamnosus* GR-1 improve vaginal microbiome and reduce pain[5].

3. **Herbal immunomodulators**: Rehmannia and Baical Skullcap dampen autoimmune responses[5][6].

4. **Sea buckthorn oil**: Oral use reduces vaginal inflammation and improves mucosal integrity[5].

5. **Stress management**: Ashwagandha and passionflower lower cortisol, addressing stress-induced flares[5].

6. **Topical herbal creams**: Chickweed and calendula in vitamin E base alleviate itching and inflammation[5][6].

7. **Fennel applications**: Estrogenic effects combat vulvar atrophy and improve pH balance[5].

8. **Omega-3 supplements**: Reduce systemic inflammation linked to autoimmune activity[5].

9. **Silk underwear**: Minimizes friction compared to cotton, reducing irritation[4][6].

10. **Avoid irritants**: Replace harsh soaps with pH-balanced cleansers and avoid tight clothing[4][6].


While natural solutions may complement medical therapy, LS requires ongoing monitoring due to cancer risk.


A 2025 review emphasises combining corticosteroids with stress reduction and dietary changes for optimal outcomes[1][5].


Always consult healthcare providers before altering treatment plans.


Citations:

[1] https://coyleinstitute.com/lichen-sclerosus-and-stress/

[2] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7191405/

[3] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7995233/

[4] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4904529/

[5] https://kimberleyporteous.com/lichen-sclerosus-natural-treatment/

[6] https://www.bondihealthandwellness.com/article/what-is-lichen-sclerosus-naturopath-kimberley-porteous-explains/

[7] https://drbrighten.com/what-is-the-best-treatment-for-lichen-sclerosus/

[8] https://www.intimaterose.com/blogs/pelvic-health/natural-treatments-for-lichen-sclerosus

[9] https://www.rupahealth.com/post/an-integrative-medicine-approach-to-lichen-sclerosus

[10] https://naturopathinetobicoke.com/blog/treatment-for-lichen-sclerosus

[11] https://www.bad.org.uk/pils/lichen-sclerosus-in-females/

[12] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538246/

[13] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16564-lichen-sclerosus

[14] https://dermnetnz.org/topics/lichen-sclerosus

[15] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lichen-sclerosus/symptoms-causes/syc-20374448

[16] https://www.msdmanuals.com/home/skin-disorders/psoriasis-and-scaling-disorders/lichen-sclerosus

[17] https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/lichen-sclerosus/

[18] https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/l/lichen-sclerosus.html

[19] https://autoimmune.org/disease-information/lichen-sclerosus/

[20] https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/lichen-sclerosis

[21] https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1123316-treatment

[22] https://myskyn.co.uk/blog/how-i-cured-my-lichen-sclerosus/

[23]https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/aftercareinformation/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=abq4840

[24] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lichen-sclerosus/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20374452

[25] https://www.elite-aesthetics.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Is-There-a-Natural-Cure-For-Lichen-Sclerosus.jpg?sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjcz5z158uMAxWBcfEDHXDoMDgQ_B16BAgCEAI

[26] https://www.naturalhealingcentre.com.au/product-category/lichen-sclerosis/

[27] https://www.toplinemd.com/new-age-womens-health/can-i-cure-vulvar-lichen-sclerosus-naturally/

[28] https://www.sruk.co.uk/conditions/lichen-sclerosus/

[29] https://www.lichensclerosusguide.org.uk/what-is-vulval-ls/

[30] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9978401/

[31] https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1123316-overview

[32] https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/lichen-sclerosus/

[33] https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/lichen-sclerosus

[34] https://www.lichensclerosusguide.org.uk/treatment/

[35] https://www.lichensclerosusguide.org.uk/the-long-term/

[36] https://www.cuh.nhs.uk/patient-information/lichen-sclerosus-after-diagnosis-and-initial-treatment/

[37] https://www.elite-aesthetics.co.uk/blog-post/natural-cure-for-lichen-sclerosus/


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