Living with psoriasis means dealing with red, scaly patches on your skin. While there are standard treatments, many people are turning to psoriasis alternative treatment to ease their symptoms.
Read on as we share these effective natural treatments for psoriasis. From soothing aloe vera to nourishing coconut oil, nature offers a variety of options. These natural approaches can help you take control of your psoriasis and improve your quality of life.
1 Sunlight for Psoriasis
Exposure to sunlight, particularly UVB rays, can help slow down the growth of affected skin cells. Start with short exposures (e.g., five minutes) and gradually increase to about 30 minutes daily. However, it is crucial to avoid sunburns, which can worsen psoriasis. Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and avoid overexposure to prevent sunburns.
2 Aloe Vera for Psoriasis
Aloe vera is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and scaling associated with psoriasis. Look for creams or gels containing 0.5% aloe vera and apply it to the affected areas up to three times a day.
3 Tea Tree Oil for Psoriasis
Tea tree oil, native to Australia, has antimicrobial properties and can be used to treat scalp psoriasis. It is often added to shampoos to help relieve itching and flaking.
4 Oat Extracts for Psoriasis
Oat extracts can help ease itching and reduce redness. Soaking in an oatmeal bath for about 15 minutes can also help remove scales and relieve itching. Apply a moisturizer after bathing to prevent dry skin. There are creams for psoriasis that contain oat extracts, but psoriasis or eczema, buyer be wary of trigger products in some of these creams!
5 Dead Sea Salts for Psoriasis
Adding Dead Sea or Epsom salts to a warm bath can help remove scales and ease itching. Soak for about 15 minutes and apply a moisturizer afterward to return moisture to the skin.
5 Turmeric for Psoriasis
Turmeric contains curcumin, which has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Consuming turmeric or taking supplements can help reduce psoriatic activity and inflammation. It is also a common ingredient in many foods, including curries.
6 Oregon Grape for Psoriasis
Oregon grape, also known as mahonia aquifolium, is a powerful antimicrobial herb that can help calm the immune response in psoriasis. A cream containing 10% Oregon grape extract can help treat mild to moderate cases of psoriasis.
7 Apple Cider Vinegar for Psoriasis
Apple cider vinegar can help relieve scalp itch from psoriasis. Apply a diluted solution to the scalp several times a week and rinse it off to prevent irritation. Avoid using vinegar if your scalp is cracked or bleeding.
8 Probiotics for Psoriasis
Probiotics can support the immune system, which is crucial for managing psoriasis, an autoimmune disease. They can be consumed through food or supplements.
9 Stress Management for Psoriasis
Stress can trigger psoriasis flares. Techniques like meditation, yoga, and massage can help manage stress and make traditional treatments more effective.
10 Diet and Supplements for Psoriasis
Maintaining a healthy diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can support psoriasis management. Some supplements, such as fish oil, vitamin D, and oregano oil, may also help, but it is essential to consult a healthcare provider before trying them.
11 Acupuncture for Psoriasis
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate healing. While studies have not found strong evidence to support its effectiveness for psoriasis, some individuals find it helpful in relieving symptoms.
12 Chinese Herbs For Psoriasis
Chinese herbs have long been used in the treatment of psoriasis since more than 2000 years ago. While it is not known to many sufferers of psoriasis, there are many anecdotal accounts of Chinese herbs that bring psoriasis into remission. Watch the video below to learn about Chinese herbal treatment for psoriasis:
How to Avoid Psoriasis Triggers
- Diet: Avoiding certain foods can help reduce symptoms. Red meat, dairy products, eggs, gluten, processed foods, and nightshades are common triggers.
- Skin Products: There are many products that help calm down psoriasis lesions. However, it is important you are aware of some triggering chemicals in these products like isopropyl alcohol and methanol.
- Stress: Engage in relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, and cognitive stress management therapy to manage stress.
- Medications: Beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, interferon-alpha, and lithium are examples of medications that can trigger psoriasis.
- Infections:Promptly treat infections such as bronchitis, ear infection, influenza, sinus infections, strep throat, tonsillitis, and thrush to reduce the risk of complications.
- Smoking: Quit smoking.
- Weather: Cold, dry weather can worsen symptoms.
- Heavy Metals: Not many people know, but heavy metals like mercury in your food can aggravate an existing psoriasis condition. Watch below to find out more!
Conclusion
While there is no cure for psoriasis, these alternative and natural treatments can help alleviate symptoms and improve overall quality of life. Combining these natural methods with biomedical treatments can provide a comprehensive approach to managing psoriasis.