Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition in which the immune system causes excessive skin cell production. There are many home remedies that can help relieve some of the symptoms.
Plaques are the most commen psoriasis symptomp. They are red, scaly patches of skin caused by psoriasis. Plaques are commonly found on the knees, scalp, and elbows, but they can appear anywhere on the body.
It’s a good idea to check with a doctor before using home remedies. They are most effective when used in conjunction with medical treatment.
Home remedies, either alone or in conjunction with medical treatment, may help to alleviate psoriasis symptoms.
However, some home remedies may interact with medications, so anyone considering using them should consult with a doctor first.
It is also critical to monitor psoriasis symptoms to ensure that the treatments are not exacerbating them.
- Sunlight exposure
Exposure to sunlight can sometimes enhance the appearance of the skin. However, people should only expose their skin for a short periods at a time.
The National Psoriasis Foundation suggests beginning with 5 to 10 minutes of midday sun exposure once per day.
It is critical to protect healthy skin with sunscreen and clothing, only expose the affected areas to the sun. Individuals can gradually increase their sun exposure in increments of 30 seconds per day if their skin tolerates it.
- Omega-3 fats
Omega-3 fatty acids, which are usually found in fish and fish oil supplements, have been shown to reduce inflammation and improve autoimmune diseases.
According to a meta-analysis published in 2014, fish oils may benefit people suffering from psoriasis, which is both inflammatory and autoimmune. However, the extent of this benefit may vary depending on the type of fish oil used, the dosage, and the type of psoriasis. The oil’s most effective component appears to be omega-3 fatty acids.
- Capsaicin
Capsaicin, a component of red peppers, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. Even though the following experimental research examples are pretty old, they are the most recent studies in this field. Both studies show that capsaicin can alleviate psoriasis symptoms.
In a study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology in 1986, 44 people with moderate-to-severe symptoms used a topical capsaicin cream for six weeks.
Almost half of the group experienced burning, stinging, itching, and redness when they first applied the cream, but this stopped or significantly reduced as they continued to use it. Capsaicin, according to the researchers, could be a valuable treatment for psoriasis.
- Probiotics
Probiotics are healthy bacteria found in yogurt and fermented foods. They can also be taken as supplements.
Having the right bacteria balance in the body may benefit the immune system.
- Curcumin
Curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties that may aid in the treatment of psoriasis.
Turmeric contains the active ingredient curcumin. It may help reduce psoriatic activity and reduce inflammation in the body.
- Oregon grape
Oregon grape, also known as Mahonia aquifolium, is a herbal remedy that may help calm the immune response in people with psoriasis.
M. aquifolium cream is a safe and effective treatment for mild-to-moderate psoriasis in a report based on three clinical trials with a total of 104 people.
- Aloe vera
Aloe vera cream may aid in the relief of redness, inflammation, and scaling.
The gel from within the aloe vera plant has long been used to treat skin wounds in traditional medicine. Applying an aloe vera ointment may also help reduce the redness, scaling, and inflammation caused by psoriasis.
Those who used the aloe vera-containing preparation saw a “notable improvement” in their symptoms.
- Apple cider vinegar
Studies suggest that apple cider vinegar may help relieve itching and burning caused by scalp psoriasis, though it should not be applied to broken or cracked skin areas.
It has natural germ-killing properties and can soothe the scalp.
- Moisturizers
Itching and flaking can aggravate psoriasis, so it is critical to keep the skin moisturized.
According to the AAD, moisturizing creams, also known as emollients, are a standard treatment used in conjunction with other therapies.
Applying a thick ointment or cream three times a day may help control symptoms and keep skin comfortable.
- Warm baths with salts or oats and wet dressings
Baths and showers can be relaxing, but baths and showers that are too hot or too long can strip the skin of its oils, exacerbating psoriasis.
Some people find that soaking in a warm bath with colloidal oatmeal or Epsom salts is relaxing and relieves symptoms.
- Diet and exercise
Some people with this condition may be more likely to be obese, and they may be at a higher risk of developing other diseases such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Exercise can help lower the likelihood of developing these additional issues.
Diet is also essential for maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding cardiovascular and other diseases.