Living with psoriasis is challenging. Flare-ups can happen at any time, even if you’ve gone months or years without any symptoms. Fortunately, you can learn everything you need to know about psoriasis with a search online right now.
Sometimes, even the smallest changes to your daily life can trigger symptoms, pain, and discomfort. While there are plenty of approved medical treatments available for psoriasis, sometimes natural remedies can also provide relief.
1. Aloe Vera
You probably think of aloe vera as a natural remedy for sunburns. But this skincare staple can actually be beneficial for psoriasis symptoms too.
The National Psoriasis Foundation reports that research studies have found that aloe vera can reduce redness and scaliness caused by psoriasis. You can apply an aloe vera cream to any areas where you’re experiencing symptoms, and you may find a reduction in inflammation, itching, and other related symptoms.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar
You’ve likely heard apple cider vinegar being touted as an all-around health powerhouse. There are plenty of claims that apple cider vinegar can benefit health in many ways – but research shows that it may be particularly beneficial for those with psoriasis.
You can use apple cider vinegar a few times per week to help alleviate the itching the cause of your symptoms. Mix apple cider vinegar (preferably organic) with water to dilute it, and apply it onto your skin. Make sure to rinse the mixture off after it’s dried to prevent any additional irritation. Avoid cracked skin and open wounds.
3. Dead Sea and Epsom Salts
Soaking in a warm bath can do wonders for stress relief and relaxation. And if you add salt into your bath, it can also become a beneficial natural treatment option for psoriasis.
If you’re dealing with scales and itchiness, soaking in a salt bath can do wonders for your symptoms. Clinical trials have found that individuals with psoriasis who take baths with Dead Sea salt or Epsom salt saw significant improvement in their symptoms. Those who used Dead Sea salts saw an even higher improvement than those who used Epsom salt.
Try adding Dead Sea salt – or regular salt – into a warm bath. Soak for about 15 to 20 minutes, and repeat a few times throughout the week. Make sure to moisturize skin afterward to help prevent dryness and further itching.
4. Turmeric
Turmeric is getting a lot of attention lately, and that’s all thanks to its powerful anti-inflammatory properties. This ancient spice has long been hailed as beneficial for overall health, but it’s becoming particularly important for any ailments that are caused by inflammation.
Turmeric can also be beneficial for psoriasis. Recent studies and clinical trials have found that applying turmeric to the skin can reduce the size, redness, thickness, and scaling of psoriasis lesions. Applying a turmeric gel or cream is seeming more effective than taking turmeric capsules or supplements orally.
5. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
You likely know that omega-3 fatty acids are a great addition to anyone’s diet. They offer great potential benefits for all kinds of health ailments, including cardiovascular health, weight loss, and more. And now, research is showing that omega-3s may also be a great natural way to treat psoriasis.
Omega-3 fatty acids are proven to decrease inflammation within the body – and inflammation is one of the key causes of psoriasis flares. Research has found that psoriasis symptoms can improve with an increase of omega-3 fatty acids, as well as an overall improvement in skin.
6. Coconut Oil
Derived from cold-pressed coconut kernels, coconut oil contains a fatty acid that reduces symptoms of psoriasis. It’s especially useful for people with scalp psoriasis because of its moisturizing abilities, which can help loosen the thick scale.
One method for using coconut oil to treat your scalp is by applying it to your head for half an hour after showering and wrapping it in a damp towel. After rinsing it from your head, massage the scalp. Doing this and brushing your hair may remove any scales from your hair to give you temporary relief from dandruff.
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Make sure you talk with your doctor before you begin any kind of natural or alternative treatment. Even simple home remedies may interact with other treatment methods you’re using. And it’s important to keep your doctor informed about any treatment options you might try.
With more research being done regarding alternative and natural treatments each year, it’s a good idea to stay informed. Knowing which foods, natural ingredients, and even supplements may be able to positively impact individuals with psoriasis can help you find the right solution for your unique case.