Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that speeds up the life cycle of a person’s skin cells, causing extra skin cells to form itchy and sometimes painful scales and red patches.
Natural remedies for psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis
It is essential to first talk with your doctor before taking any herbal remedies for psoriasis treatments, as they may interact dangerously with other forms of medication. It is also recommended not to take any herbal remedies when pregnant, breastfeeding, or if you suffer from medical conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or mood disorders. If you try the herbal remedies and experience any side effects, stop use immediately and consult a doctor.
- Aloe Vera. The aloe plant produces a gel that can be applied to the skin up to three times a day. It is known to reduce redness and scaling common in psoriasis. There is no scientific evidence supporting the use of aloe in tablet form for psoriasis treatment, however, and may even prove to be dangerous.
- Apple cider vinegar. It was commonly used in ancient times as a disinfectant. It may help reduce itching. Organic vinegar bought at the grocery store can be applied to the scalp several times a week to reduce itching. Some people recommend diluting the vinegar with water in a 1:1 ratio to avoid a burning sensation. However, this remedy should be avoided if the scalp skin is cracked or bleeding as this will only increase the burning sensation and irritate the skin more. If the solution works, one should be able to see positive results in a couple of weeks.
- Capsaicin. Capsaicin is what causes chili peppers to be hot. When added to creams and ointments, it blocks nerve endings that transmit pain. Some German researchers from the University Medical Center Freiburg found that over-the-counter creams containing capsaicin may reduce the pain, itching, inflammation, and redness associated with psoriasis. Researchers say that more research should be done to assess its long-term effects and safety.
- Dead Sea salts. Dead Sea salts or Epsom salts can be added to warm bath water to remove scales and ease the itching. It is recommended that a person applies moisturizer after leaving the tub. With time, the effects of using Dead Sea salts for psoriasis are noticeable.
- Oats. Oats are considered by some to be nature’s best soothers. It has, however, not been proven scientifically if there are any benefits from using oats as a psoriasis treatment. Some individuals claim that applying a paste made from oats or soaking in a tub infused with oats is beneficial in that it reduces redness and itching.
- Tea tree oil. This oil is acquired from the leaves of a plant that is native to Australia. There haven’t been any scientific studies to prove the efficiency of tea tree oil on psoriasis; however, it is believed to have antiseptic qualities and is beneficial when applied to the skin. Using a tea tree oil-infused shampoo eases scalp psoriasis in some people. It is recommended that the oil be used with care.
- Turmeric. This is one frequently studied herb for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric and is known to alter gene expression. The international union of biochemistry and molecular biology did a review in the year 2012 and highlighted turmeric’s ability to alter TNF cytokine expression. Some patients find it useful in minimizing psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis flares. Turmeric as a remedy can be taken in tablet form as a supplement and, if one likes curries, moderately added to food when cooking. 1.5 to 3.0 milligrams of turmeric per day is considered safe by the FDA.
- Mahonia Aquifolium (Oregon grape). Mahonia Aquifolium is a powerful antimicrobial herb that plays a major role in immune responses and in psoriasis treatment. Some studies have proven the application of a cream with 10% Mahonia topically can reduce psoriasis symptoms. Since Mahonia is an alkaloid, it should only be used under the advice of a medical practitioner.
Original source: http://findquickanswers.com/natural-remedies-for-psoriasis/
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