Introduction
Disorders in fat metabolism can lead to skin changes, the so-called xanthomas. If the cholesterol level is increased, fat deposits may appear around the eyelids and on the face. If several blood lipids (for example cholesterol and triglycerides) are raised, these skin changes are mainly found on the trunk of the body and the extensor sides.
Therapy
Before any drug therapy, weight reduction, sufficient exercise, abstinence from nicotine and alcohol should be the basis of any treatment of xanthelasma. The aim is to bring or keep the blood lipids within the norm. The intake of calories from fat should be 25 to 30% of the total calories.
The proportion of saturated fats from animal products should be low; monounsaturated fats and polyunsaturated vegetable fats should each make up one third. Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil help regulate blood lipids and consumption of fish (e.g. salmon, mackerel), even with relatively high fat content, is recommended. The diet should also be rich in fruit, vegetables, wholemeal products and contain low-fat dairy products in moderation.
Homeopathic and medicinal plants with influence on blood lipid values
Garlic has a lowering effect on the cholesterol level, but must be used in high doses and over a longer period of time. Recommended is 3 g of fresh garlic daily. This possibility of therapy usually fails because of the unpleasant smell and garlic is therefore often available in the form of dragées and capsules.
The homeopathic drug Allium sativum is commonly used in the potencies D3 to D6. The remedy is usually taken over a longer period of time and one usually chooses drops in D6 and takes 2 times 10 drops daily. The extract from the large base leaves of the artichoke has a cholagogic and digestive effect.
It inhibits the formation of new cholesterol in the liver and lowers triglycerides in the blood. Artichoke has a general regenerating and protective effect on the liver. It is recommended as a ready-to-use medicine or pressed plant juice because artichoke vegetables lose much of their active ingredients during the cooking process. A metabolic tea can be prepared to promote the flow of bile and liver function (cholesterol is formed in the liver and excreted through the bile): pour 1 teaspoon of this mixture over 1 cup of boiling water, allow to draw, strain, drink a cup unsweetened twice a day and for a longer period of time.
- Allium sativum (garlic)
- Cynara scolymus (artichoke)
- 30g milk thistle herb
- 20g celandine
- 10g dandelion root
- 20g peppermint leaves
- 10g chamomile blossoms
