Many people prefer to try a psoriasis home remedy before turning to prescription medications. Some want to avoid visiting a doctor, while others want to avoid the cost of prescription drugs. Still, others are concerned about the possible side effects associated with many prescription medications used to treat psoriasis.
Home remedies are usually safer than prescription drugs, but they aren’t all safe for everyone. Talk with your doctor if you have questions about the safety of any home remedies for psoriasis. In addition, some home remedies are unproven and they may not be effective at relieving your symptoms. While some people have great success with home remedies, others need prescription medications in order to receive the greatest benefit. Discuss your treatment options with your doctor.
Psoriasis Home Remedy Options
If you’re interested in a home remedy for psoriasis, you have many from which to choose. Some of the most popular home remedies include:
Apple Cider Vinegar – Many people report rinsing their head with apple cider vinegar after washing their hair relieves itching caused by psoriasis on the scalp.
Epsom Salts –Adding Epsom salts to bathwater can help remove some of the scaly skin caused by psoriasis as well as reducing the discomfort and itching.
Gluten-Free Diet – Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, research shows 25 percent of people with psoriasis are also sensitive to gluten. For them, eating a gluten-free diet can lead to significant improvements in skin disorders like psoriasis. Follow this link to learn more about how you can manage your psoriasis with diet.
Oatmeal Baths – Many people report that adding colloidal oatmeal (which is simply regular oatmeal that has been ground very fine, so it won’t clog your bathtub drain) to their bathwater relieves the itching caused by psoriasis.
Omega 3 Fatty Acids – Omega 3 fatty acids, found in things like salmon, sardines, shrimp, tofu, walnuts, and flax seeds, help reduce inflammation and therefore may help relieve symptoms of psoriasis. You can also buy fish oil capsules or flaxseed oil capsules to help you get the omega 3 fatty acids you need.
Tea Tree Oil – Tea tree oil is an essential oil made from an Australian plant called Melaleuca alternifolia. It is believed to have antiseptic and anti-fungal properties and is often used as a psoriasis home remedy as well as to treat other skin disorders. You can apply small amounts directly to the skin or dilute it in a carrier oil, such as almond or grapeseed oil, before applying it to the skin. It can also be added to bathwater. You can also purchase shampoo made with tea tree oil, which some people find helpful in treating psoriasis of the scalp.
Turmeric – Turmeric is an herb sometimes used in cooking. It has anti-inflammatory properties and, taken regularly, may help prevent psoriasis flare-ups and relieve swelling, redness, and inflammation. It can be added to food or taken in capsule form. Follow this link to learn more about the use of turmeric as a psoriasis home remedy.
Our Favorite Home Remedy For Psoriasis
Our favorite psoriasis home remedy is a bit more complex than those discussed above. It’s also much more effective. Terrasil Psoriasis Therapy Max is an ointment available without a prescription for use at home. It contains salicylic acid, which is a natural substance found in willow bark (although it is also sometimes made synthetically) and is related to aspirin. It reduces redness, swelling, and inflammation. Terrasil Psoriasis Therapy Max contains other natural ingredients that help relieve itching and discomfort, like peppermint oil, jojoba seed oil, and volcanic clay. Still, other ingredients like magnesium oxide, zinc oxide, and silver oxide help skin heal. To learn more about our favorite home remedy for psoriasis, just follow the links.
National Psoriasis Foundation: Gluten-Free Diet