Psoriasis is a skin disease that causes redness and irritation. Many people exhibit thick, red skin with flaky, silver to white patches called scales. This disorder is quite common and affects people of any age, but mostly those between 15 and 35. Although prescription medications are necessary to improve symptoms, using cooling herbs can also help. Consult your physician prior to using any herbal remedies.
Yellow Dock
Yellow dock is an herb used for psoriasis as well as acne, according to Michelle Cook in the book "The 4 Week Ultimate Body Detox Plan." This perennial herb contains thiamine, which helps to repair skin tissue often disrupted due to psoriasis. Cook recommends mixing dried yellow dock with licorice root and Oregon grape root and taking it orally to treat psoriasis, eczema and other skin-related problems. For a topical application, the author suggests covering fresh yellow dock with olive oil in a crock pot over low heat for 12 hours. Strain the oil and apply it to affected skin regions two to three times a day.
Borage
Borage is naturally cooling and a source of essential fatty acids, according to Paul Raven in his book "The Definitive Guide to Food and Herbs." It is an anti-inflammatory and helps to reduce skin irritation due to psoriasis, acne and allergic reactions. Borage oil contains between two to three times more omega-6 fatty acids than other herbal essential oils. When topically applied, borage oil soothes flaking, itchiness and irritation resulting from psoriasis. The author recommends regularly applying the oil for at least three months.
Dandelion
Dandelion leaves, flowers and roots are traditional remedies for treating skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema and neurodermatitis, according to the book "A Russian Herbal." Fresh dandelion juice or dandelion essential oil cools irritated skin and relieves minor burns. For an infusion, add a cup of boiling water to approximately 10 g of fresh dandelion root or herb and allow it to steep. For the best results, drink the tea once a day for at least two weeks. If you opt for the dandelion essential oil, which you can purchase at many health stores, the author recommends applying it topically twice a day after a shower.
References
- MedlinePlus: Psoriasis
- "The 4 Week Ultimate Body Detox Plan"; Michelle Cook; 2000
- "The Definitive Guide to Food and Herbs"; Paul Raven; 2007
- "A Russian Herbal"; Igor Vilevich, et al.; 2007
