This article is explaining 9 herbs and home remedies to treat psoriasis naturally. These can be effective when used with traditional treatment options.
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a genetically programmed inflammatory disease that primarily affects the skin in about 3% of individuals in the United States.
Psoriasis is characterized by skin cells that multiply up to 10 times faster than normal. When these cells reach the surface and die, raised, red plaques covered with white scales form. Psoriasis begins as a small scaling papule.
There’s a reason the P is silent in psoriasis. This condition, which impacts 8 million Americans, is mighty sneaky.
Psoriasis is an immune-related disorder that affects the body’s largest organ- the skin- causing lesions that can range from small red bumps to thick, raised lesions to lobster-like redness from head to toe.
Some people with psoriasis say that the lesions burn, sting, or itch. And unfortunately, while a temporary relief perhaps, scratching can worsen psoriasis and trigger more flares.
What Causes Psoriasis in the First Place?
It is now clear that there is a genetic basis for psoriasis. This hereditary predisposition is necessary before the disease can be triggered by environmental factors.
Researchers believe there are about 25 genetic variants that make you more susceptible to developing psoriasis.) The condition is more likely to occur if a direct relative (parent, grandparent, sibling) has a history.
Psoriasis Symptoms
Although psoriatic plaques can be limited to only a few small areas, the condition can involve widespread areas of skin anywhere on the body. Psoriasis symptoms vary depending on the type of psoriasis you have. Common psoriasis symptoms can include the following:
- Red patches of skin covered with silvery scales
- Small scaling spots
- Dry, cracked skin
- Itching, burning, or soreness
- Itchy plaques
- Small bleeding points when the scale is peeled away
9 Herbs and Home Remedies to Treat Psoriasis
The use of natural treatment options can be effective for some when used in conjunction with traditional treatment options.
Here are some of the more popular natural home remedies to treat psoriasis that may help with your psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis.
1. Aloe Vera Gel Buy from Amazon
According to some research, aloe vera has been shown to help reduce redness and scaling associated with psoriasis. Look for creams containing 0.5% aloe. The aloe vera gel can be applied to the skin up to three times a day.
Instructions to use: Break aloe vera leaves and apply the gel directly onto affected areas thrice a day. The Vitamin E helps soothe and heal skin
2. Banana Peel
One of the best home remedies to treat psoriasis. This is a cheap and effective way to reduce the symptoms of psoriasis.
Instructions to use:Â Just rub the inside of the banana skin on itchy regions for relief.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar can be used to help relieve scalp itch from psoriasis. It’s very useful, research says. The National Psoriasis Foundation suggests applying apple cider vinegar to your scalp, several times a week, to relieve the itch of scalp psoriasis.
Instructions to use:Â Mix equal parts of lukewarm water and apple cider vinegar Buy from Amazon and apply the mix on lesions using a cotton ball.
4. Turmeric
Studies have linked the spice turmeric to reduced inflammation in a number of health conditions, including psoriasis.
Turmeric has been frequently studied for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, can alter gene expression. Research has found turmeric’s ability to alter TNF cytokine expression, which can help in minimizing psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis flares for some.
Instructions to use:Â You can take turmeric concentrated in pill or supplement form. For optimum results, add about a teaspoon of turmeric to your rice, pasta, or vegetables every day, or mix it with a little juice and a teaspoon of black pepper and drink it down.
5. Epsom Salt
One possible remedy for removing scales and easing itching associated with psoriasis is to add Epsom salts to bath. one of the best home remedies to treat psoriasis.
Instructions to use:Â Add Epsom salts to your warm (not hot) bath water and soaking in it for about 15 minutes. As soon as you get out of the tub, apply your usual (psoriasis-friendly) moisturizer to prevent dryness. To avoid dry skin, apply moisturizer after bathing.
6. Olive and Coconut Oil:
Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, olive oil may help reduce inflammation when applied to areas of the skin affected by psoriasis.
Instructions to use:Â Simply applying olive oil on lesions will reduce inflammation and also moisturize the skin. If olive oil is too expensive then go for coconut oil instead, it has the same effect.
7. Oregon Grape
Oregon Grape or Mahonia Aquifolium is a powerful antimicrobial herb that plays a role in immune response.
Suggested Product
Wild Naturals Eczema Psoriasis Cream – for Dry, Irritated Skin, Itch Relief, Dermatitis, Rosacea, and Shingles
Instructions to use:Â Applying a cream containing 10% mahonia (like Wild Naturals Eczema Psoriasis Cream) is effective in treating mild to moderate psoriasis. Because it is in the alkaloid family, mahonia should only be used topical unless under physician supervision.
8. Baking Soda
Not everyone with psoriasis experiences an itch, but if you do, sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) might bring some relief.
Instructions to use:Â Combine 1 teaspoon with 4 teaspoons of water and apply this mix on places that are itching with a cotton ball. Allow it to dry and wash off with lukewarm water.
9. Oatmeal
There may be no evidence in favor of oats to relieve psoriasis symptoms, but many people with psoriasis swear by applying an oat paste or taking an oatmeal bath to reduce redness and itching.
Suggested: McCann’s Irish Oatmeal Buy from Amazon
Instructions to use:Â Dissolve a cup of raw oatmeal in your bathtub of lukewarm water and soak in it for a while.
Final Words:
We suggest that you talk with your doctor before taking any herbal remedies to avoid dangerous interactions with your medications.
Also, you should not take some home remedies to treat psoriasis if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, if you have pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure or mood disorders. Stop usage and consult your doctor immediately if you experience side effects.
Disclaimer: Any information published in this article is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional fitness, weight-loss, medical, nutrition or any other advice. All content contained on this website is for general information purposes only. Consult with a licensed health and fitness specialists before attempting any exercises or making any health or nutritional choices.
