Pellagra is a rare condition of the skin that stems from a deficiency in vitamin B3 or niacin. This is exactly the reason why it is sometimes referred to as “vitamin B3 deficiency” and “niacin deficiency”. Treatment for pellagra usually involves the intake of vitamin B3 supplements and the consumption of foods that are loaded with the nutrient.
In some instances, pellagra is due to the inability of the body to properly absorb vitamin B3 in foods that contain it. There are cases in which the malabsorption of the said vitamin is caused by lysine, an amino acid.
Rash formation is the hallmark sign of pellagra. Red lesions may also form on areas of the body that is exposed to the sun — someone who is suffering from the skin condition is sensitive to sunlight. Fatigue, tongue inflammation, muscle and joint pain, insomnia, diarrhea, mood swings, and confusion are also experienced.
Apart from the course of treatment a doctor recommends, there are also a handful of home remedies that are available for a person who is diagnosed with pellagra. Some of the best of these all-natural approaches are the following:
Nuts and Seeds
Healthy fats present abundantly in nuts and seeds help promote skin healing, and that is why they are excellent for anyone who has pellagra. Additionally, nuts and seeds contain tryptophan, which is a type of amino acid that is known to help in stabilizing the mood.
Turkey or Chicken Breast
Other than perfect for building lean muscles, turkey or chicken breast is also recommendable for anyone with pellagra. It’s for the fact that it is a phenomenal source of vitamin B3. Furthermore, the impressive amounts of protein found in turkey or chicken breast is good for dealing with pellagra’s skin symptoms.
Liver
Another wonderful source of vitamin B3 is liver. Once in a while, it is a good idea for liver to be included in the diet of someone who is bugged by pellagra to attain relief from it. The consumption of liver should be kept in moderation since it also contains plenty of artery-clogging cholesterol.
Ginger Tea
Sometimes a person with pellagra may experience digestive issues. Fortunately, they can be managed with something as simple as consuming ginger tea. What’s so great about ginger is it also packs amazing anti-inflammatory properties, making it superb for skin healing.
Lavender Essential Oil
Mixed with any carrier oil that’s perfect for various skin problems, lavender essential oil helps provide relief from the skin symptoms of pellagra. Some individuals with pellagra also swear by the effectiveness of drinking lavender tea in dealing with insomnia, which is another common pellagra symptom.
Milk
Speaking of insomnia, a glass of warm milk at bedtime can also help someone who is suffering from pellagra to attain a good night’s sleep. More importantly, the consumption of milk also supplies the body with vitamin B3, as well as other nutrients pertinent for skin healing.
Orange Juice
Fresh orange juice contains vitamin B3, and that is why consuming it regularly is ideal for someone who is suffering from pellagra. However, this home remedy is not recommended if the person is suffering from acid reflux, or has diarrhea which is one of the many symptoms of pellagra.
Eggs
We all know that eggs are fantastic sources of high quality protein, which is important for keeping the skin healthy. Eggs also contain good amounts of vitamin B3. Poached or soft boiled eggs are perfect for anyone with pellagra who is bugged by swelling of the tongue or an issue with the digestive system.
Aloe Vera
The application of the vitamin E-rich gooey substance inside the aloe vera leaf is very good for managing various skin issues associated with pellagra. If aloe vera plant is not accessible, a person with pellagra may also simply regularly rinse affected body parts with aloe vera juice, provided that it’s 100 percent pure.
