Psoriasis is a skin condition that can be quite frustrating to deal with. There are many different treatment options available, but they often come with unwanted side effects. If you're looking for an alternative approach, you may want to try some of these natural remedies for psoriasis. Here we discuss a variety of remedies including lifestyle changes, home remedies, Ayurveda, Yoga, and essential oils without any side effects.
Women, when compared to men, are prone to develop this condition. Additionally, those between the ages of 15 and 30 are also more susceptible… But it can affect people at any stage, especially if they have a compromised immune system.
Certain medications, chronic stress, skin injuries, and genetics also trigger the disease.
Before we talk about the benefits of natural remedies for psoriasis, let's look at the causes, triggers, and symptoms of this condition.
What Is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin disorder characterized by itchy, red flakes and patches. When the T-type white blood corpuscles, that combat and shield the body from infections become overactive, they trigger undesirable immune responses, psoriasis sets in.
Types of Psoriasis
There are five different types of psoriasis.
- Pustular
- Inverse
- Plaque
- Guttate
- Erythrodermic
The most commonly reported psoriasis is Plaque which affects the elbows scalp, lower back, palms, knees, and soles. While this skin disease is not contagious and could be mild or severe… Lack of proper care could set the stage for various other grave health issues, including depression and diabetes.
Causes of Psoriasis
There are no scientific or medical texts that expound the actual causes of psoriasis. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, it is genetic in nature.
The genetic mutation causes the protective T-cells to launch an attack on the skin cells. In turn, this leads to inflammation, itching, and rashes.
Even so, there are some triggers that put you at a higher risk of developing psoriasis. Some of the most commonly reported triggers are:
- Cold weather
- Smoking
- Excessive consumption of alcohol
- Existence of other autoimmune conditions or a compromised immune system
- Skin injuries
- Chronic stress
- Medications such as anti-malarial drugs and beta blockers
By paying close attention, you will be able to identify the triggers that cause you a breakout.
So, how do you identify a breakout? Below is a list of some of the common symptoms. This will give you an idea whether you are suffering from psoriasis.
Symptoms of Psoriasis
Some of the widely known symptoms of this recurring skin condition are:
- Scattered scales with a silver-tone
- Itchy, dry skin
- Burning sensation on the skin
- Red, bump-like flakes on the affected area
- Bumps filled with pus
- Skin inflammation
- Pain on the affected area
- Stiffness or tenderness of the affected joints (more common in psoriasis arthritis)
- Inflammation in the tendons
- Depression and mood swings
Natural Remedies for Psoriasis
These natural remedies for psoriasis solutions are time-tested, safe, and effective. I have divided psoriasis natural remedies into five different categories.
Lifestyle Changes
Home Remedies
Ayurveda
Yoga
Essential Oils
Lifestyle Changes to Heal Psoriasis
1. Prevent Dry Skin
Give yourself a daily massage or abhyanga with a high quality herbal abhyanga oil to keep your skin healthy, and improve circulation and skin tone. Hemp seed oil is very helpful since it has more than 75% Omega-3 essential fatty acids.
Keep your home and office environments moist with a humidifier.
Avoid taking a hot shower as it depletes the natural moisture levels on your skin. Take cooler showers.
2. Avoid Fragrances
Soaps, perfumes, deodorants, and other cosmetic products have chemicals including parabens and alcohol which could irritate your skin. These products could also erode away the skin moisture, triggering psoriasis.
Opt for chemical-free soaps and essential oils in place of perfumes and deodorants.
3. Avoid Alcohol
According to a study that appeared in the US National Library of Medicine on August 16, 2010… Women who drank non-light beer at least five times a week had a higher risk of developing psoriasis than non-alcohol consumers. Besides, alcohol is also known to induce dehydration, which again ups the risk of this autoimmune skin condition.
4. Don't Smoke
Smoking can definitely worsen your condition or increase the risk of developing this skin condition. So cut down cigarettes. Even better, stop smoking tobacco.
5. Drink More Water
Drink at least 2 liters of warm water daily to flush out the toxins from your body and keep your skin naturally moisturized.
6. Protect Your Skin From the Sun
There are cases where Vitamin D deficiency has been identified as the root cause of psoriasis, but make sure you do not expose your skin too much. Aim for catching the sun between 7 am and 9 am for optimal results. Apply a generous dose of chemical-free sun protection lotion with an SPF of at least 30, reapplying it after 2 hours, to keep your skin safe from the harsh sun rays.
Studies have shown that people with psoriasis often have lower vitamin D levels compared to those without the condition. Taking vitamin D supplements has been found to improve symptoms in some individuals with psoriasis.
7. Healthy Psoriasis Diet
Avoid processed food. Eat organic healthy fats, fruits, fiber, vegetables, fish, and lean meat. Include dark chocolate, cranberries, nuts, and soy.
There may be times when gluten or lactose intolerance could be the underlying cause. If you suspect any of these intolerances, avoid foods containing dairy and gluten.
Additionally, red meat is known to cause an inflammatory response, so you experiment with reducing it in your diet to see if there is an improvement. See Dr. John's Healing Psoriasis Cookbook
Benefits of a Liver Cleanse
Detoxifying the liver will eliminate toxins, and can help to reduce inflammation and restore healthy skin cells, so consider a liver cleanse. Here's how to detox your liver.
8. Cut Down Stress – Meditate
According to a study that appeared in Medscape, stress could worsen psoriasis and even delay its cure. So, find a stress management technique(s) that works for you right for you to prevent frequent recurrence of the condition, manage the symptoms, and lower the risk.
Try Yoga Nidra to experience a profound state of relaxation, restoration, and stillness. You can literally “sleep your way to health“.
If you're short on time, try Zen12. You can get the benefits of one hour of meditation in just 12 minutes.
Home Remedies for Psoriasis
1. Fish Oil
Fatty fishes such as salmon and tuna are rich sources of Omega-3 fatty acids which could help to soothe the inflamed skin. Aim to include 2 to 3 servings of these fishes per week. Alternatively, you can choose Omega 3 supplements available as capsules. However, if you are on blood-thinning medication, please check with your doctor as Omega 3s are known to interfere with these drugs.
2. Dead Sea Salt Soak
Add about 1/4th cup of Dead Sea Mineral Salts to lukewarm water and soak yourself for 15 to 20 minutes. This soak is known to calm the irritated, itchy skin by reducing the burning sensation. However, ensure that your water is not too hot as it could worsen psoriasis.
3. Colloidal Oatmeal Bath
Soothe your irritated skin by reducing inflammation and boosting hydration with a colloidal oatmeal bath.
Colloidal Oatmeal also calms down agitated nerves and prevents your skin from cracking.
Add 1 cup of finely powdered oatmeal to a bathtub filled with warm water. Stir well using your hands. Add a few drops of coconut or olive oil also and soak for 25 to 30 minutes. Follow up with a warm water shower. You can do this twice a day till psoriasis calms down.
4. Apple Cider Vinegar
ACV balances the skin pH and works as an antiseptic. It also eases the itching and inflammation caused by psoriasis. Apply it topically in the form of a compress.
Add about 1 cup of undiluted ACV to 3 cups of warm water. Dip a clean cloth in this solution, wring out excess water and place it on the affected area. This is one of the best home remedies for psoriasis affecting the scalp and skin.
Ayurvedic Remedies for Psoriasis
Ayurveda teaches you Nature's great principles of health and natural living. If you are new to Ayurveda, start here: What is Ayurveda About?
The emphasis in Ayurveda is on self-care, taking responsibility for your health, preparing your own food, appropriate exercise, eating seasonally, and keeping a positive state of mind.
Ayurveda treats the person, not the disease… So I recommend learning the basics of Ayurveda. Learn what energies (doshas) you're made of, and what lifestyle will enable you to live a long disease-free life.
Psoriasis in Ayurveda
According to Ayurveda, psoriasis is triggered by a Vata-Kapha imbalance. The imbalance triggers the accumulation of toxins in the blood, muscles, lymph nodes, and tissues, setting the stage for psoriasis to invade the skin.
I cannot stress the importance of following an Ayurvedic lifestyle which includes a healthy diet, good digestion, and seasonal cleansing. Additionally, colors, aromas, meditation, affirmations, music, mantra, changes in a relationship, employment, or lifestyle could all be useful or necessary to heal.
Once you take the test to learn your unique bio-energies, you will be guided to learn what's most supportive to your constitution for healing.
Here are some herbs that are administered internally and externally to ensure complete healing.
1. Aloe Vera
One of the most commonly recommended topical natural remedies for psoriasis, aloe vera reduces itching, redness, and scale. Choose to buy pure aloe gel from a trusted source or grow your own. If you have a plant, just wash, cut, and apply the gel 3 to 4 times a day.
2. Turmeric
Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric with its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It also has the power to alter the expression of the genes, which, in turn, could help to ease psoriasis.
Make a paste of fresh turmeric root mixed in a with coconut oil and apply on the affected area.
Or consume it internally mixed with warm milk.
3. Neem
Known as Indian Lilac, Neem is one of the most effective and highly recommended Ayurvedic remedies for psoriasis. The leaves and bark of this tree contain various steroids rich in antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Mix a tablespoon of Neem powder into a thick paste along with equal parts turmeric powder. Mix a little coconut or castor oil to the mixture and apply this on the affected area. Wash off with lukewarm water after 25 to 30 minutes. You can repeat this practice until your skin heals.
Or, add a quarter cup of freshly extracted neem juice to a bathtub filled with tepid water. Soak for 25 minutes to reduce itching and inflammation.
Neem oil can also be used for topical inflammation.
Neem capsules can be used as supplements to promote detoxification from within.
5. Garlic
Another often recommended effective natural remedy for psoriasis is garlic. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of garlic eliminate inflammation and ward off infection. Apply fresh garlic extract on the affected area or eat 5 to 7 pods of raw garlic daily to purify your blood and prevent a psoriasis outbreak.
You also prepare a paste by mixing garlic oil and aloe vera gel in equal proportions. Use it for topical application. Rinse off after 15 minutes of application for faster recovery.
Essential Oils For Psoriasis
Aromatherapy offers hope for the healing of mankind. There is a strong connection between smell, emotions, and states of mind.
Essential oils are an effective form of natural medicine with sedating, narcotic and healing effects.
All plants have unique qualities that we can use to heal. Many have antiseptic, antiviral, and anti-fungal properties that add to our body's defense system.
Here's my review of the Simply Earth brand, their essential oils, and their very popular monthly subscription “Recipe Box”.
Ways to use Essential oils:
- Use a diffuser
- Put a few drops on a compress and inhale directly
- Massage into the skin (AFTER diluting it with a carrier oil such as almond oil).
1. Tea Tree Oil
A rich in anti-inflammatory, antiseptic essential to treat psoriasis. While there are no scientific evidence, people who have used it in the diluted form vouch for its benefits. Mix 12 drops of tea tree oil to 3 tbsp coconut oil or sesame seed oil and rub it on the affected area.
2. Geranium Oil
This essential oil eases itching and promotes the revitalization of body tissues. Dilute it with a carrier oil such as jojoba or olive oil for accentuating its skin healing benefits.
3. Juniper Oil
Can be used topically or consumed, Juniper oil purifies the blood and promotes circulation, thereby offering relief from itchy, inflammatory psoriasis.
4. Lavender Oil
A traditional remedy for psoriasis. Lavender oil reduces itching and inflammation, eases stress and anxiety, and prevents infections. It also soothes flaky skin and promotes the growth of new skin.
5. Myrrh Oil
The powerful ingredients of this essential oil ease the itchy, flaky skin. It soothes cracked, chapped skin and eases the symptoms of psoriasis. The antiseptic, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties of this essential oil promote quicker healing and restoration of skin cells.
Yoga For Psoriasis
Practiced by countless people for thousands of years, yoga is not just about working out, it's about a healthy lifestyle.
Once you start to practice Yoga, you will begin to enjoy better health, deeper sleep, a sharper mind, and a better outlook on life.
You'll also notice an improvement in your flexibility, vision, and general appearance. In other words, you'll feel more vibrantly alive and enjoy better health physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Below you will find the best practices to support and heal Psoriasis
Deep Breathing
Breathing deeply reduces stress and promotes a sense of calmness which helps to ward off depression associated with psoriasis.
Sit on the floor in a comfortable, upright posture. Take a slow, deep inhalation through your nose, filling your lungs for a count of 6. Hold the breath for a count of three, before exhaling for a count of 12. Repeat for 15 minutes.
Bhastrika
The practice of Bhastrika purifies the blood by expelling the toxins and promoting circulation.
Sit on the floor in a comfortable, upright posture. Take 3 rounds of deep breaths to prepare your body and mind for the practice. Once you are ready, practice forceful inhalations and exhalations. Make sure that your abdomen is being sucked into the rib cage with each exhalation. Keep inhalations and exhalations equal and powerful. Practice 15 strokes to complete one round. Practice 3 such rounds, indulging in 3 rounds of normal breathing between Bhastrika practice.
Simple Seated Twists
Yogic twists are designed to promote toxin expulsion from the body. As you twist, the blood supply to the concerned area is cut away and when you release, there is a sudden circulation, which helps to clear the accumulated contaminants, ensuring that your skin is free from psoriasis.
Sit down on the floor in simple crossed-legged seated posture. Keep your spine upright. Inhale and rest the right palm behind you on the floor. Allow the left palm to rest on the right knee. Exhale and twist to your right and gaze over the right shoulder. Hold for 10 counts. Inhale and come back to the center. Repeat on the other side. This completes one round of the twist. Practice three to five times.
Feel free to experiment with these natural remedies for psoriasis. What works for one person, may not always work for someone else. While these natural remedies for psoriasis cannot hurt you in any way… Please be sure to consult with your doctor if you have a severe case.
Also, please don't hesitate to ask me questions in the comment area below and I'll be sure to get back within “hours” most of the time.
Sources: http://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/bringing-psoriasis-under-controlhttp://www.healthline.com/health/psoriasis/causes#Overview1http://www.everydayhealth.com/psoriasis-pictures/most-popular-psoriasis-home-remedies.aspxhttp://www.healthline.com/health/psoriasis/treat-symptoms-homehttps://www.psoriasis.org/treating-psoriasis/complementary-and-alternative/herbal-remedieshttps://draxe.com/psoriasis-diet-5-natural-cures/http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/ART03161/Psoriasis.htmlttp://ayurveda-foryou.com/treat/psoriasis.html https://jiva.com/diseases/psoriasis/http://www.psoriasisselfmanagement.com/natural-herbs-supplements/aloe-vera-for-psoriasis/
Wow Jackie, that was extraordinarily comprehensive. My wife has sensitive skin and we’re planning to move to Canada (where it’s blisteringly cold in the later months). Would her susceptibility to dry skin make her somewhat unfortunately predisposed to the development of psoriasis? What’s the prevalence of this type of dermatitis in colder climes?
Hi Joshua, Yes, I know all about cold, dry Canadian winters since I grew up on the south shore of Lake Superior! To answer your question… You will both have to pay more attention to eating well, digesting well, staying hydrated to keep your immune system functioning optimally. In winter, eat warm, soupy, grounding, deeply nourishing foods. Drink lots of herbal teas. Follow a Vata pacifying diet and lifestyle https://motherofhealth.com/vata-diet-lifestyle
This was kind of a potpourri website of health. I really enjoyed looking through the different topics from skin conditions to diets to avoid and diets to do. Hands down my favorite is the green juice. I think your website is very easy to navigate and very thing loaded for me quickly. I found it very interesting that you have a contributor section as well. Well thought through!
thanks for your comments Michelle!
Hello Jackie, Waw, I think it is a great piece of work. Thank you for your effort in this article, so much information about Psoriasis remedy. What to eat, the oils dear that is such beautiful information and that will help people who will visit your site.
I like it and also the site is great. Keep on dear.
thanks for the feedback Mariam! My best to you…
Apple cider vinegar based home remedy helped me to get rid from scalp itching. I will definitely recommend it to many others.
Thank you for spreading the love Clair!
I used to get psoriasis on my neck for about a year. I spoke with many doctors, who gave me many different medications. They barely worked, and the psoriasis came back. The medications also made me sick.
My last doctor recommended that I apply the Made from Earth Rosehip Serum on my neck area, because its soothing, and it worked! I used it for about 2 weeks, and the psoriasis on my neck was completely gone and has not come back for 3 months (since I have been using this product). I also use it on my arm area and it took about 3 weeks for the psoriasis to totally go away. I now use it as my daily moisturizer, and I am psoriasis free. GOOD LUCK TO YOU AS WELL!
Hi Paula, thanks for sharing what worked for you with our readers! Awesome!