Homemade Treatments for Psoriasis

Overview

Psoriasis is a most unpleasant non-contagious skin disorder that can appear at any stage of life. According to the Cleveland Clinic, psoriasis presents as "thick, pink to red, itchy patches of skin covered with silvery scales." Psoriasis outbreaks typically are seen on many different areas of the skin as well as the scalp or fingernails. An often hereditary condition with no known cause or cure as yet as yet but known to be related to the overproduction of new skin cells, psoriasis waxes and wanes in many sufferers. Outbreaks begin as small red bumps which grow and develop scales. Scratching due to itchiness can cause bleeding. The skin dries, crack and swells, often accompanied by pain as well as deterioration of the nails. Just as suddenly, psoriasis will clear up and go into remission. Physicians have many treatment options, but a number of home remedies have been known to meet with varying degrees of success.

Step 1

Take a supplement containing omega-3 fatty acids every day. According to the Mayo Clinic, fish oil "may reduce inflammation associated with psoriasis." Flaxseed oil is also an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids.

Step 2

Get some sun. The Cleveland Clinic suggests moderate exposure to sunlight as a possible way to lessen the effects of psoriasis. This should not extend to lengthy or daily exposure, as too much solar radiation can actually aggravate psoriasis. It is always a good idea to consult a physician about appropriate length of time in the sun.

Step 3

Discontinue drinking alcohol and smoking, if applicable. Avoid stress as it is another trigger of psoriasis.

Step 4

Take daily baths of at least 15 minutes and apply oil or moisturizer after drying. The Mayo Clinic suggests adding Epsom salts, colloidal oatmeal, Dead Sea salts or bath oil to the water. The bathwater should be lukewarm rather than hot, and mild soaps must be used instead of harsh ones.

Step 5

Apply capsaicin (chili pepper extract) cream to the affected areas. A harmless burning sensation may be felt on first application.

Step 6

Apply an ointment-based moisturizer (aloe vera lotion may prove to be effective over time) to the areas with psoriasis before going to bed. Wrap the area with a non-absorbent material such as plastic. Wash the areas in the morning.