Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin disease which affects more than 8 million people in the United States. The condition occurs when the immune system becomes overactive and accelerates skin cell growth, causing raised plaques on the skin. These plaques can form anywhere on the body but most commonly occur on the scalp, knees, and elbows.
Psoriasis is typically accompanied by soreness, itching, or a burning sensation. The symptoms can be managed with prescribed topical treatments and over-the-counter medications. There are also a wide range of natural treatment options which many sufferers have found beneficial.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a species of succulent plant that has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years. Aloe vera leaves are filled with a gel-like substance that is known to have wound healing properties and has shown promise in the treatment of psoriasis. In fact, one 2018 psoriasis study found that a topical treatment of aloe vera combined with propolis led to a significant reduction in symptoms over a 12-week period.
Apple Cider Vinegar
The National Psoriasis Foundation suggests that apple cider vinegar could be a beneficial natural treatment for the disease. This is likely due to its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. While no studies have been carried out on the affects of apple cider vinegar on psoriasis, some sufferers report a reduction in skin plaques, especially on the scalp, when applying two to three times a week.
Dead Sea and Epsom Salts
Bath minerals such as Epsom and dead sea salts can sooth psoriasis symptoms by wearing away the outer layer of skin cells that form a plaque. For maximum therapeutic benefit, sufferers should soak in a tub of hot water and salts for a minimum of 15 minutes. Following the bath, apply moisturizer to the effected areas to further soften the skin.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a brightly colored spice with well-documented anti-inflammatory properties. When taken daily as capsules or tablets, turmeric will downregulate overactive immunity and reduce skin cell production as a result. However, sufferers should note that relatively large doses are required for turmeric’s active compound, curcumin, to be effective.
Omega 3s
A diet high in omega-3 fatty acids can minimize outbreaks and plaque build-up in psoriasis sufferers. This is likely due to an “inside-out” emollient affect, as moisturized skin is less prone to inflammation and will be less sore where plaques have formed. Omega-3 is also known to play an important role in normal immune system function and could therefore alleviate psoriasis symptoms via several different biological mechanisms.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a popular natural alternative to prescription topical treatments for psoriasis and other inflammatory skin conditions. When applied daily its rich, moisturizing action can sooth the itching and soreness caused by psoriasis. Coconut oil is also beneficial due to its anti-inflammatory action, which limits the overproduction of skin cells.
Oatmeal Baths
Finely ground oatmeal has long been used as a topical treatment to calm inflammation and sooth irritated skin. In addition to being a great source of essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, oatmeal contains several anti-inflammatory compounds that have been the subject of extensive scientific research. To prepare an oatmeal soak, simply grind whole oats in a blender until just a little coarser than ordinary flour and mix with warm water in your bathtub. Oatmeal can also be made into a paste with water and applied directly to psoriasis plaques with bandages or wraps.
Managing Psoriasis Through Lifestyle
While the natural psoriasis treatments discussed here can soothe psoriasis symptoms and improve quality of life, it is important to keep in mind that lifestyle choices also influence the severity of the condition. Excessive stress, smoking and consuming too much alcohol are three of the biggest aggravating factors, which psoriasis sufferers should seek to avoid. Speak to your general practitioner or dermatologist if you are concerned about psoriasis and would like to discuss conventional treatment options.