Natural Treatments For Psoriasis; at a glance
- Natural supplements: Yes, taking supplements such as fish oil and tumeric can help but they are not a replacement for medical treatments .
- Lifestyle factors: There is a strong link between psoriasis and stress. Stress can trigger or worsen psoriasis symptoms.
- Alcohol: Alcohol consumption is known to be a common trigger for psoriasis in some individuals.
There are several natural treatments for psoriasis including:
Some natural remedies that may help alleviate symptoms of psoriasis include:
- Topical applications of aloe vera gel, coconut oil, or tea tree oil
- Taking supplements such as fish oil, turmeric, or probiotics
- Practicing stress-reducing techniques like yoga or meditation
- Exposing affected areas to moderate amounts of sunlight
- Avoiding triggers such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and certain foods It’s important to note that while these natural remedies may provide some relief, they are not a substitute for medical treatment. Consult your doctor before trying any new treatment.
How often should I apply aloe vera gel, coconut oil, or tea tree oil to my psoriasis?
The frequency at which you should apply aloe vera gel, coconut oil, or tea tree oil to your psoriasis would depend on the severity of your condition.
Aloe vera gel: Aloe vera gel can be applied to the affected area as often as needed to soothe and moisturize the skin.
Coconut oil: Coconut oil can be applied to the affected area 2-3 times per day to moisturize the skin and reduce inflammation.
Tea tree oil: Tea tree oil is considered to have antiseptic properties, it should be diluted with a carrier oil such as coconut oil before being applied to the skin. Tea tree oil should not be applied more than once a day as it may cause skin irritation.
It’s important to note that, these natural remedies may provide some relief, but they are not a substitute for medical treatment. Consult your doctor before trying any new treatment, also monitor your skin for any changes or side effects during the use of any topical application. If you experience any irritation or worsening of your symptoms, discontinue use and consult your doctor.
What is the link between psoriasis and stress?
There is a strong link between psoriasis and stress. Stress can trigger or worsen psoriasis symptoms. Research suggests that stress can cause changes in the immune system, which can lead to inflammation and the development of psoriasis.
Additionally, stress can also lead to a change in the skin barrier function, making the skin more permeable to irritants and allergens, which can further contribute to psoriasis symptoms.
Furthermore, stress can also lead to changes in behavior such as sleep disturbance, alcohol or smoking, diet and hygiene habits which can affect psoriasis symptoms.
The relationship between stress and psoriasis can be bidirectional, as psoriasis itself can also be a source of stress, due to the emotional impact of the condition such as low self-esteem, social isolation, and depression.
Managing stress through techniques such as yoga, meditation, and cognitive-behavioral therapy may help reduce symptoms of psoriasis. Consult your doctor or mental health professional to determine the best approach for you.
How does fish oil help psoriasis?
Fish oil, which is high in omega-3 fatty acids, may help alleviate symptoms of psoriasis by reducing inflammation in the body. Inflammation is a key factor in the development of psoriasis, and omega-3s have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.
Fish oil supplements are thought to work by reducing the production of inflammatory chemicals called prostaglandins, which play a role in the development of psoriasis. Additionally, omega-3s may also help reduce the activity of certain white blood cells called T cells, which are involved in the development of psoriatic plaques.
Some studies have shown that taking fish oil supplements can help reduce symptoms of psoriasis, such as itching and scaling, and improve overall skin health. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings, and fish oil should not be considered a replacement for traditional medical treatment.
It’s important to note that before taking fish oil supplements, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional to make sure it’s safe for you and to determine the appropriate dosage. Also, if you are on blood thinning medication, fish oil supplements may not be suitable for you.
Why does alcohol trigger psoriasis?
Alcohol consumption is known to be a common trigger for psoriasis in some individuals. The exact reason why alcohol can trigger psoriasis is not well understood, but several mechanisms have been proposed.
One theory is that alcohol consumption can lead to an increase in inflammation in the body, which can exacerbate symptoms of psoriasis. Alcohol can also lead to changes in the immune system, which can further contribute to the development of psoriasis.
Another theory is that alcohol can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria, which can affect the immune system and lead to inflammation.
Additionally, alcohol can cause dehydration, which can make the skin dry and itchy. This can lead to scratching and further irritation of the skin, which can worsen psoriasis symptoms.
What does a natural skin care routine for someone with psoriasis look like?
A natural skin care routine for someone with psoriasis may include the following steps:
- Gentle Cleansing: Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser to gently cleanse the affected areas. Avoid hot water and harsh soaps, as they can dry out and irritate the skin.
- Moisturizing: Apply a fragrance-free, non-irritating moisturizer to the affected areas immediately after showering or bathing to lock in moisture and reduce dryness.
- Sunlight exposure: Moderate sunlight exposure can be helpful for psoriasis, but be sure to protect your skin with a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher.
- Topical Treatments: Use natural topical treatments such as aloe vera gel, coconut oil, or tea tree oil to soothe and moisturize the skin. Consult your dermatologist before trying any new treatment.
- Avoid Triggers: Avoid known triggers such as alcohol, smoking, and certain foods.
- Stress management: Incorporate stress-reducing techniques such as yoga, meditation, and cognitive-behavioral therapy to reduce stress and improve symptoms.
It’s important to note that, everyone’s skin is different and what works for one person may not work for another. Consult a dermatologist to determine the best approach for your specific case and always monitor your skin for any changes or side effects during the use of any topical application.
What are psoriasis symptoms?
The symptoms of psoriasis can vary from person to person, but common symptoms include:
- Red, raised, scaly patches on the skin, known as plaques. These plaques can appear on any part of the body, but are most commonly found on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back.
- Itching and burning sensations on the affected areas.
- Thickened, pitted, or ridged nails.
- Inflammation and stiffness in the joints (in case of psoriatic arthritis)
- Cracked or bleeding skin.
- Fatigue and general discomfort.
What if natural remedies aren’t working?
If natural remedies are not providing adequate relief for your psoriasis symptoms, consider consulting one of our dermatologists. other treatment options include:
- Topical medications
- Phototherapy
- Oral medications
- Biologics
Some treatments may have side effects, so it’s important to weigh the potential benefits and risks with your doctor.
It’s also important to note that, while traditional medical treatment may be more effective, that it’s always best to work with your healthcare professional to find the right balance between natural and traditional treatment methods.
