Psoriasis - Home Remedies for Psoriasis

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes flaky patches of skin which form scales. On brown, black and white skin the patches can look pink or red, and the scales white or silvery. On brown and black skin the patches can also look purple or dark brown, and the scales may look grey.

What are the main causes of psoriasis?

Common psoriasis triggers include:

• Infections, such as strep throat or skin infections.
• Weather, especially cold, dry conditions.
• Injury to the skin, such as a cut or scrape, a bug bite, or a severe sunburn.
• Smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke.
• Heavy alcohol consumption.

Home Remedies for Psoriasis:

Apple Cider Vinegar for Your Scalp 

Apple Cider Vinegar is more than just a salad dressing. Put some on your head a few times a week -- either full strength or mixed with water. It's a recipe for relief when your scalp calls out "scratch me." 

Rinse it off after it dries so you won't get an irritation. And don't try this when your scalp is bleeding or cracked. The vinegar will make it feel like it's burning. 

Get a Little Sun 

Spend some time in the great outdoors. The sun's ultraviolet B rays can help fight your psoriasis. 

Stick to 5 or 10 minutes a day, and use sunscreen on spots without psoriasis. Too much sun can raise your risk of skin cancer. Epsom salts into a tub with warm water. Soak for about 15 minutes, and use a moisturizer when you're done to seal in the water. 

Capsaicin 

Capsaicin the ingredient that makes chili peppers hot, and it's got a place in your bag of tricks.  Researchers say it can cut pain, inflammation, and redness. You'll find it in over-the-counter creams. But Some people say it gives them a burning feeling when they put it on their skin. 

Turmeric 

You might know tumeric as the yellow herb that shows up in foods with a curry sauce. Studies show it may cut down your psoriasis flare-ups. You can try it as an ingredient in your meals or as a supplement.

 

Tea Tree Oil 

It comes from a plant that's native to Australia, but you don't have to go that far to get relief. Shampoos with this ingredient may help psoriasis on your scalp, though more research is needed. 

Soak in Oats 

It's a natural way to soothe your skin. Put some ground-up oats in your bath, sit back, and relax. Just make sure the water is warm, not hot, so you don't irritate your skin. 

Meditation and Yoga 

Cut down your stress to shake off your symptoms. Meditation can help you take your psoriasis in stride. Yoga is especially helpful if you have psoriatic arthritis, too, because it eases joint pain and expands your range of motion.

 

Wrap It Up

Put cream on your skin at bedtime and cover the area with plastic wrap. Then add a layer of tight clothing -- like gloves or socks. The idea is to seal the moisturizer in while you sleep and let your skin absorb it. 

Omega-3 Fatty Acids 

Omega-3 fatty acids fights inflammation, and you can find them in fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, tuna, and sardines. You can also buy fish oil supplements. 

How much they help with psoriasis isn't so clear. Studies have mixed results, so get your doctor's advice. 

 

Mediterranean Diet 

This eating plan puts the focus on fish, veggies and fruits, and whole grains. A small study shows it might tone down your symptoms. 

Aloe Vera 

Studies suggest this plant can improve psoriasis. Aloe vera is anti-inflammatory and helps decrease redness. Use unscented gel or cream with 0.5% in it on your skin.