Living with skin disorders including eczema and psoriasis can be extremely difficult concerning: time, finances and overall emotional well being. Here are 12 home remedies that have been documented as being effective in easing symptoms associated with psoriasis.
Epsom and Dead Sea Salts – Run a lukewarm bath and add salt to the tub (do not bathe in hot water). Epsom salt is an inexpensive way to help ease excessive itching and remove plaque scales associated with psoriasis. Dead sea salts have been accredited with having extremely healthful healing properties. Use a quarter cup of authentic dead sea salts for best optimization and soak in the tub for around 15 minutes.
Tea Tree Oil – Tea tree oil is a fairly inexpensive oil that has shown effectiveness in treating scalp psoriasis symptoms. There are several shampoos that promote this ingredient in their formula; however, you can purchase the oil and add it to any shampoo of your preference. Avoid shampoos with harmful sulfates. In some cases, tea tree oil has caused allergic reactions so be cautious during initial use. Do not apply to open wounds, sores, lesions or cracked skin.
Coconut Oil – Coconut Oil can be very effective in moisturizing psoriasis plaques and other skin irritations such as eczema as well. You can apply coconut oil topically up to three times per day, or ingest 2 tablespoons of virgin coconut oil per day, to best optimize it’s potential benefits.
Vitamin D – If possible, a little time in the sunshine can be helpful in clearing up psoriasis flares. Often times, doctor’s will prescribe ultraviolet light treatments as part of a psoriasis care regimen. If you are not in the position to receive that type of treatment and your climate is not one fortunate enough to be filled with sunshine, consider taking a vitamin D supplement each day.
Baking Soda – Baking soda is an inexpensive way to help alleviate the incessant itching associated with psoriasis and eczema. Dissolve 1/3 cup inside a gallon of temperate water. Soak a washcloth in the water, ring it out and apply directly to affected skin.
Apple Cider Vinegar – Apple cider vinegar has been documented with alleviating itch associated with psoriasis of the scalp. This is a cheap psoriasis treatment option that can be directly applied or diluted with a 1 to 1 ratio of water to reduce any burning or stinging sensation that the full strength may cause. Do not use on your scalp if you have any open sores, lesions or cracks in the skin, as this will only further irritate it.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Omega-3 acids are found in fatty fishes including: salmon, sardines, albacore tuna and herring. A diet rich in omega-3’s can help with the inflammation aspect of psoriasis. If fish is not your friend, consider taking a fish oil supplement to ingest your omega-3’s.
Humidifier – Use a humidifier in your home to ensure there is always moisture in the air. Moisture in the air helps to prevent dry skin issues including psoriasis and eczema.
Drink Water – Ninety percent of your bodies makeup is water and it is important to replenish it. Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated, especially when combatting psoriasis.
Turmeric – Turmeric is a spice most commonly associated with Indian curry. It has been attributed as having anti-inflammatory benefits that can be helpful with the inflammation aspect of your condition.
Mahonia Aquifolium (Oregon Grape) – Mahonia Aquifolium is an antimicrobial herb that has a role in immune response. It has shown to be effective in treating mild to moderate symptoms of psoriasis. Mahonia Aquifolium is a member of the alkaloid family and should only be used topically and under doctor’s supervision.
Aloe Vera – Aloe Vera is a plant related to the cactus family. They are inexpensive and you don’t need a green thumb to care for them. Apply aloe gel or a cream containing aloe gel topically to your plaques up to three times per day. Do not take aloe vera supplements. They can be dangerous and have not shown any positive results in relieving psoriasis.
Never alter your doctor’s psoriasis skin care regimen without discussing it with them first. In addition, never take supplements of any kind without clearing it with your doctor, as you may experience complications with prescription drugs and your medical history that your doctor may better recognize.
Article by Cheryl Lee Eberting. Lee has developed a sensitive skin care product line which she blogs about regularly at cherylleemd.com
