Psoriasis is an incurable autoimmune skin condition. It causes your skin cells to multiply up to 10 times faster than they should. It causes the skin to build up, resulting in thickened patches of skin called plaques. Psoriasis can affect any part of your body including the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for psoriasis. But with a proper treatment plan, you can manage the symptoms and minimize the flares. With the bunch of prescribed treatments, you may be looking for natural home remedies for psoriasis treatment.
Below are 7 effective home remedies to help you manage psoriasis symptoms and improve the quality of your life.
Aloe vera is a great remedy that can help people suffering from psoriasis symptoms. You need to apply aloe vera several times a day to soothe itching, relieve inflammation, and hydrate the affected areas of your skin. There is no evidence that confirms taking aloe vera supplements may also help treat psoriasis symptoms. For this reason, stick to the topical use of aloe vera.
Olive oil is packed with omega-3 fatty acids that can help reduce inflammation and soothe the itching scalp. You need to rub a small amount of warm olive oil in the psoriasis plaques to soften them. You may also use olive oil during a shower. Massage your scalp with olive oil to get rid of flakes of skin from scalp psoriasis.
If you have large patches of psoriasis on your body, add several teaspoons of olive oil to your baths. This will help you moist the skin and relieve the symptoms of psoriasis.
Many people with psoriasis swear it can help reduce the symptoms like skin redness and itching. You can apply oat paste directly to the affected areas or take an oatmeal bath. Grind several handfuls of plain oatmeal and put it into a warm bath.
Apple cider vinegar may be helpful for people suffering from scalp psoriasis. Applying it to the affected areas of your scalp several times a week can help relieve itchiness and inflammation. Because concentrated apple cider vinegar may cause burning sensations, it is recommended to dilute it with water in a ratio of 1:1. After the solution has dried, rinse your scalp with water to avoid irritation.
Avoid applying apple cider vinegar if your skin is cracked or bleeding. This can cause severe discomfort and further irritate your skin.
Some products like red meat or dairy food contain an inflammatory compound called arachidonic acid. Too much of this compound in your body can aggravate inflammation and worsen the symptoms of psoriasis. One of the best natural ways to reduce the levels of arachidonic acid in your body is by eating flaxseed. You can add grounded flaxseed to smoothies, oatmeal, granola, muffins, and use it for salad dressing.
Eating flaxseed on a regular basis can help reduce the symptoms of psoriasis and improve the quality of your life.
Turmeric is a spice that has great anti-inflammatory properties and is beneficial for several chronic health conditions, including psoriasis. Thanks to the antioxidant compound curcumin, turmeric can protect your skin from the negative effect of free radicals and promote skin regeneration. You can add turmeric to your rice, vegetables, smoothies, and any other dish. You may also consider taking turmeric supplements.
Dead Sea salt and Epsom salt are rich sources of magnesium. Adding this salt to your warm bath and soaking your body for 15 minutes can help relieve itching and improve the general condition of your skin. Be sure to apply a moisturizer after the bath to prevent skin dryness and worsening of the symptoms.