According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, psoriasis is a skin condition results in redness and irritation with crusty, flaking skin. This condition can be unsightly and embarrassing for the sufferer. Certain prescription medications and herbal remedies can help. It is essential to speak with your physician before beginning any herbal treatment.
Aloe
Aloe may be one of the better treatments for psoriasis. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, a 16-week study cited by Tropical Medicine and International Health found that a cream with aloe vera extract helped to significantly clear up a psoriasis breakout in 25 out of 30 patients. However, according to the National Psoriasis Foundation, another study done in May of 2005 by the Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology found that the effects of aloe vera gel on psoriasis were very modest. You can use aloe gel from an aloe plant or pick some up from your local health food store.
Fish Oil
Fish oil can be helpful with reversing the symptoms of psoriasis. According to Organic Facts, fish oil can be rubbed onto the site of the psoriasis to improve the condition of the skin and moisturize so that the skin cells can slough off. According to Organic Facts, EPA, or Eicosapentaenoic acid, present in the fish oil restricts inflammation by producing arachidonic acid. It is also helpful to take fish oil capsules on a regular basis because, according to Organic Facts, it helps to prevent moisture loss from the skin; this can prevent psoriasis from breaking out.
Capsaicin
Capsaicin in a compound found in cayenne peppers. According to Northwestern University, capsaicin can help to relieve the redness, scaling skin and itchiness that is caused by psoriasis. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, cream made with 0.025% of capsaicin it topically effective in treating this skin condition. Capsaicin creams can be found at your local pharmacy or health food store. Applying a small amount of capsaicin cream to the skin in the morning and at bedtime is usually enough to relieve the condition.
References
- Northwestern University; Managing Eczema and Psoriasis: Alternative and Complementary Topical Treatments;
- Organic Facts; Health Benefits of Fish Oil;
- The National Psoriasis Foundation; Making Treatment Decisions - Alternative Approaches;
- The University of Maryland Medical Center; Psoriasis -- Overview;
