5 Natural Remedies for Treating Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition caused by an immune system dysfunction. It typically develops between the ages of 11 and 45 and is characterized by inflammation, redness, itching, and the rapid buildup of dead skin cells. While psoriasis can appear anywhere on the body, it most commonly affects the elbows, knees, and scalp. Although conventional pharmacological treatments are essential in managing psoriasis, there are several natural remedies that can help control symptoms and significantly reduce itching and inflammation, improving the appearance of the skin.
Here are five natural remedies that may aid in managing psoriasis symptoms. These treatments are not a substitute for professional medical advice or prescribed medications but can be used alongside them to provide relief.
1. Oatmeal Paste
One of the best natural remedies for treating psoriasis symptoms is the topical application of oatmeal paste. Oatmeal has soothing and exfoliating properties that help remove dead skin cells from the surface while its anti-inflammatory effects reduce redness and irritation.
Ingredients:
1 cup of oatmeal flour (about 100 grams)
5 liters of water
How to prepare and use:
Add oatmeal flour to boiling water and let it steep for about 2 minutes. Pour this mixture into your bathwater and soak for about 15 minutes, making sure the “medicine” interacts with the affected skin areas. After soaking, rinse your body with clean water. This remedy can be repeated daily or as needed to soothe irritated skin.
2. Avocado and Chamomile Mask
Avocado is rich in fatty acids that deeply moisturize dry and inflamed skin, making it ideal for psoriasis-affected areas. When combined with chamomile flowers, which have anti-inflammatory and calming properties, this mask becomes a powerful, all-natural treatment.
Ingredients:
1 ripe avocado
1 tablespoon of dried chamomile flowers (about 10 grams)
1/2 cup of water (125 ml)
How to prepare and use:
Prepare a chamomile infusion by steeping the chamomile flowers in hot water for a few minutes. Blend the ripe avocado flesh with the chamomile infusion until smooth. Apply the paste to the affected areas and leave it on for 20 minutes. Then wash off with warm water and gently pat dry with a soft towel. Repeat this procedure 2 to 3 times a week for best results.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has alkaline properties that can noticeably improve skin conditions, including psoriasis. It also helps prevent infections and can soothe symptoms such as scaling and redness. ACV is useful for various skin problems, including superficial burns, fungal infections, and acute skin peeling. Due to its liquid consistency, ACV is also an effective treatment for nail psoriasis.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup of organic apple cider vinegar (125 ml)
1 liter of warm water
How to prepare and use:
Dilute the apple cider vinegar in warm water. Using a soft cloth, gently rub the affected skin areas with this mixture twice daily. Continue this routine until symptoms diminish. It is advisable to avoid applying undiluted vinegar to open wounds or severely irritated skin to prevent discomfort.
4. Warm Olive Oil
Olive oil is a natural source of essential fatty acids and antioxidants that help improve the skin’s appearance. It prevents excessive dryness, aids in the removal of dead skin cells, and soothes itching. Olive oil is especially recommended for managing psoriasis of the scalp.
Ingredients:
3 tablespoons of olive oil (about 48 grams)
How to prepare and use:
Warm the olive oil gently in a water bath until it reaches a comfortable temperature for skin application. Massage the warm oil onto the affected skin areas with gentle circular motions. Leave it on for 20 minutes, then wash your hair or skin with a mild shampoo. Repeat this treatment 2 to 3 times per week.
5. Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera gel, extracted from the plant’s leaves, contains a gelatinous substance with soothing, anti-inflammatory, and moisturizing properties. Aloe accelerates the healing of wounds and burns, helping to manage various skin problems that affect our appearance. It also reduces redness and scaling caused by psoriasis.
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel (about 30 grams)
1 teaspoon of coconut oil (about 5 grams)
How to prepare and use:
Mix the aloe vera gel with coconut oil until you get a smooth paste. Apply this mixture to the affected skin areas twice daily. This combination provides both hydration and relief from inflammation and itching.
Important Considerations
While these natural remedies can be very helpful in managing psoriasis symptoms, they are not a replacement for professional medical treatments prescribed by a dermatologist. Psoriasis is a complex immune condition that often requires a multifaceted treatment approach, including medication and lifestyle adjustments.
Before starting any natural treatment, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or have other underlying health conditions, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider. Allergies or sensitivities to any ingredients must also be considered to avoid worsening symptoms.
Using these remedies in combination with a healthy lifestyle — including a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, and avoiding triggers — can enhance your overall well-being and support better management of psoriasis symptoms.
In summary, natural treatments like oatmeal baths, avocado-chamomile masks, apple cider vinegar applications, warm olive oil massages, and aloe vera gels offer soothing and anti-inflammatory benefits. They help reduce itching, redness, and scaling, improve skin hydration, and promote healing. When used consistently and alongside professional care, they can provide significant relief for those suffering from psoriasis, improving quality of life and skin health naturally.
