Psoriasis is a skin condition that typically occurs on different parts of the body, such as the knees, elbows, scalp, and torso. The condition is characterized by thick, red skin with silver-white patches known as scales. These scales can be itchy and painful in some situations, and they can also crack and bleed. There is no known cure for except managing psoriasis, so these home remedies would only bring temporary relief. It’s a good idea to consult a doctor before using home remedies. Home remedies are most effective when used in combination with medical treatment.
Home Remedies To Manage Psoriasis
Here are 12 home remedies to manage psoriasis:
1. Fish Oil Can Reduce Inflammation, Boost Immunity
Eating a couple of servings of salmon, albacore tuna, and other fatty fish high in omega-3 fatty acids every week can help minimize inflammation, which is a hallmark of psoriasis. Moreover, studies have shown that people with psoriasis are at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Eating fatty fish or taking fish oil supplements will help reduce the risk of heart disease. At the same time, this will also improve your psoriasis symptoms. Most food markets and drugstores sell fish oil supplements in capsule form over the counter. Fish oil improves the immune system. Since psoriasis is an autoimmune disease, this natural therapy can help relieve symptoms and manage psoriasis. One word of caution: Do not take fish oil while taking blood thinners. It can increase your risk of bleeding.
2. Take dietary supplements
Dietary supplements can help to manage psoriasis symptoms from the inside. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, fish oil, vitamin D, milk thistle, aloe vera, and Oregon vine help relieve mild psoriasis symptoms.
Before taking any supplements, consult with the doctor to ensure that they do not interfere with any other health problems you may have or medications you are taking.
3. Massage Therapy Is a Great Way to Relieve Stress
Some people have psoriasis symptoms as a result of stress. Massage is an excellent way to relieve stress. Moreover, clinical trials have shown that massage therapy can effectively treat certain forms of chronic pain (such as neck or back pain), often associated with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. If you do not want to have a professional massage, have your partner rub or knead your muscles and other soft tissues to help you relax. Avoid using massage oils that can irritate the skin, such as those containing fragrance. Also, avoid lifting or removing scales.
4. Diet Modification: Eat Better, Feel Better
People with psoriasis have an increased risk of celiac disease, an inflammatory condition in which gluten — a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye — induces inflammation that can affect the small intestine, according to a 2017 study published in the Indian Journal of Dermatology. This connection could explain why certain people with psoriasis believe eating a gluten-free diet makes them feel better. Following a gluten-free diet is important if you have celiac disease. But, there is no evidence to support removing gluten from your diet if you do not. It works anecdotally. But it has never been proved scientifically. However, if a gluten-free diet helps you feel better about your psoriasis, that’s great. Before starting a gluten-free diet, check with the doctor or a registered dietitian.
5. Drink Water to Keep Skin Hydrated and Healthy
Here’s a simple natural psoriasis treatment you may not have thought of: Drink plenty of water. Drinking plain water helps keep you hydrated, and staying hydrated is important when you have psoriasis because it keeps your skin from being too dry. Your body is made up of up to 60% water, and you must constantly replenish it. Another simple home remedy for manage psoriasis that can help keep your skin moist, especially in the winter, is to use a humidifier.
6. The Healing Benefits of Dead Sea Salt Baths
People with psoriasis have traveled to the Dead Sea, which borders Jordan, Palestine, and Israel, to drink in its salty water and experience its healing benefits. Though applying Dead Sea salts to your bath at home isn’t the same — “you’re not in the 100-degree dry heat that the Dead Sea has,” Weiss says — many people think that Dead Sea salt soaks will help relieve itching and burning. To try this herbal remedy, soak for about 15 minutes in warm to tepid bathwater with a quarter cup of authentic Dead Sea salts (check labels carefully). Because salt can dry out the skin, apply a moisturizer directly after the bath.
7. Eat a Diet With More Colorful Fruits and Vegetables
Eating many fresh fruits and vegetables is one of the simplest things you can do to help manage psoriasis. When planning menus, make sure to have various colors — variety means that you don’t miss out on any vital nutrients. Colorful fruits and vegetables are high in disease-fighting antioxidants and fiber, making you feel fuller and less likely to overeat. When you have psoriasis, you must keep a healthier weight for the treatment to be effective. Furthermore, current research shows that psoriasis patients are on likely to have heart disease and stroke. You can minimize this risk by eating a well-balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
8. Avoid fragrances
Most soaps and perfumes contain dyes and other chemicals that may irritate your skin. They can make you smell good, but they can also manage psoriasis.
Where possible, avoid those items or choose those labelled “sensitive skin.”
9. Get some rays
Light therapy involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet light when under the care of a doctor.
Psoriasis-induced skin cell development can be slowed with ultraviolet light. This type of counseling often necessarily requires consistent and frequent sessions.
You should remember that tanning beds do not have light therapy. Too much exposure to sunlight can worsen psoriasis. Light therapy can always be done under the supervision of a physician.
10. Avoid alcohol
Alcohol is a cause of psoriasis for many people. A 2015 study uncovered an increased risk of psoriasis in women who drank nonlight alcohol. Women who drank at least five nonlight drinks a week were almost twice as likely to develop psoriasis as nondrinkers.
11. Try turmeric
People all around the world use herbs to treat a number of illnesses. According to one study, turmeric reduces psoriasis flare-ups. You can use it as a pill or supplement or sprinkle it on food.
Consult the doctor on the possible advantages for you. The FDA-approved turmeric dose ranges from 1.5 to 3.0 grams per day.
12. Stop smoking
Avoid tobacco. Smoking can increase your chances of developing psoriasis.
If you already have psoriasis, it can worsen the symptoms.
The Bottom Line
There is no single treatment that can cure and manage psoriasis symptoms. What works for one person may or may not work for someone else. Other than psoriasis, some treatment choices can have negative side effects for preexisting conditions.
Remember that while these home remedies to manage psoriasis can help with mild cases, prescription medication is needed for more serious cases. Before seeking treatment of your own, consult your doctor.
