Psoriasis is more than a skin condition; it is a chronic, autoimmune disease that involves an increase in the growth cycle of skin cells, says the National Psoriasis Foundation. There are multiple kinds of psoriasis and it has been associated with other illnesses as well. There is no cure for this condition, but symptoms are able to be treated and managed. There are prescription medications to soothe skin problems associated with psoriasis, but some people may find herbal treatments to be effective. They may not work for everyone, and it is best to consult your provider before using herbal treatments.
Step 1
Apply aloe vera cream of 0.5 percent aloe to the psoriasis plaques. A study published in the journal "Tropical Medicine and International Health" found that a 0.5 percent aloe cream was more effective than placebo in reducing psoriasis lesions and redness, and no toxic side effects were found.
Step 2
Drink oregano oil that has been diluted with water. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, patients have reported that drinking 20 to 60 drops of oregano oil in water or juice helps reduce psoriasis symptoms, although scientific studies have not been done yet on this treatment. The National Psoriasis Foundation also mentions this treatment but does not provide scientific evidence that it works for everyone.
Step 3
Apply a cream of avocado oil and vitamin B12 to the affected areas. The University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC, states that applying a cream containing these ingredients has shown evidence of reducing psoriasis symptoms, but more research needs to be done to obtain more information. Talk to your provider about using a cream like this.
Step 4
Rub calendula cream onto the affected areas to reduce itching or redness. According to UMMC, this will not cure psoriasis, but it can help soothe inflamed or irritated skin.
Step 5
Use Oregon grape cream with 10 percent Oregon grape extract in it to minimize psoriasis symptoms. This herbal cream has been shown to be as effective as the prescription cream calcipotriene, or Dovonex, for some patients, says UMMC.
References
- PubMed.gov: "Tropical Medicine and International Health": Management of psoriasis with Aloe vera extract in a hydrophilic cream: a placebo-controlled, double-blind study
- National Psoriasis Foundation: Complementary treatments: Diet and supplements
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Psoriasis
- National Psoriasis Foundation: About psoriasis
