Although there is no known cure for psoriasis, rose oil may help to temporarily alleviate the dryness, itchiness and redness associated with this distressing skin disorder. There is no clinical research to confirm that rose oil helps to relieve the symptoms of psoriasis, but the properties of rose oil indicate that it may help to relieve some of the symptoms. Consult a qualified health professional before using rose oil for the treatment of psoriasis.
Psoriasis
According to the Mayo Clinic, psoriasis is a common and chronic skin disease. Psoriasis causes the skin to form thick, silverly scales and red, itchy patches on various parts of the body. Psoriasis may cause pain. Although no one knows exactly what causes psoriasis, it is believed that stress, certain infections and injuries, some medications and smoking may be triggers for psoriasis.
It is also believed that psoriasis may be caused by a compromised immune system. The use of essential oils that hold properties that may be useful in fighting these symptoms may give temporary relief to the symptoms associated with psoriasis.
Aromatherapy for Psoriasis
According to Patricia Davis, in "Aromatherapy: An A-Z," the use of essential oils through the application of aromatherapy has never shown more than a slight improvement in the treatment of psoriasis. However, as one of the causes of psoriasis is believed to be stress, Davis suggests that sedative essential oils may help to treat psoriasis. Shirley Price, in "Aromatherapy for Women," also writes that aromatherapy may help to relieve the symptoms of skin diseases such as psoriasis.
Rose Oil
Rose oil may help to relieve some of the symptoms of psoriasis due to the properties which it possesses. Julia Lawless writes, in "The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils," that rose oil is sedative, astringent, bactericidal, antiseptic and a cicatrisant. These therapeutic properties may help to reduce stress, reduce infection, reduce dryness of the skin and reduce itchy, red patches that may develop into scabs or sores.
How to Use
Apply rose oil to the skin with a moisturizing cream or white lotion base. Davis suggests using an emollient cream as a base for essential oils that will help reduce the scaliness of the skin. She also suggests using essential oils in an exfoliant base to help to shed dead skin cells caused by psoriasis. Never apply rose oil undiluted to the skin for the treatment of psoriasis. Do a patch test on a small area first to monitor any possible adverse reactions.
Cautions
Rose oil is not thought to be toxic, irritating or sensitizing to the skin. However it is one of the most expensive essential oils available so make sure that you purchase pure rose oil for the treatment of psoriasis; cheaper oils may be adulterated and will not produce the same effects. Be aware that certain individuals may experience different reactions with some health conditions. Rose oil will not cure psoriasis and results may vary and be temporary. Consult a health professional before using rose oil for psoriasis.
References
- "Aromatherapy: An A-Z"; Patricia Davis; 1999
- "Aromatherapy for Women"; Shirley Price; 2003
- "The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils"; Julia Lawless; 1995
- The Mayo Clinic: Psoriasis
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