The most effective psoriasis home treatment is topical. Softening the skin, removing the dead skin cells, keeping the skin clean, and thereby avoiding secondary infections is very important. Doctors do not know exactly what causes this painful condition but there are many treatments available.
Like many skin disorders, the best psoriasis home treatment involves warm baths and compresses.
Vinegar is a common home therapy. A cloth soaked in apple cider vinegar can be placed on the affected area two or three times a day. Read about the many health benefits of apple cider vinegar.
Epsom salt baths or sea salt baths have proven effective in softening the psoriasis scales.While in the bath use a soft loofah or sea sponge to remove dead skin cells.
Calendula, arnica and yarrow are great bathwater additions that help heal the skin and prevent infection.
Some herbal home remedies for psoriasis have proven to provide relief from the symptoms.
Boil marigold flowers or calendula in water, allow it to cool, strain then apply cool wet compresses as needed to help with itching.
Capsaicin has proven effective in blocking the nerves that signal itching, and many commercial products contain capsaicin. You can also make your own salve using the seeds from hot peppers. Be very careful if you make your own. Capsaicin oil is very hot and can cause irritation when undiluted, so wear gloves to protect your hands. Use a blend of 1/4 cup beeswax to 1/4 cup walnut or safflower oil and 1 teaspoon ground pepper seed. Adjust the consistency by adding beeswax.
Cashew oil may provide better relief for psoriasis than walnut or safflower.
Ground willow bark contains salicylic acid. Salicylic acid has proven to be helpful for many skin and joint irritations. If you are allergic to aspirin do not use willow bark for any purpose.
Aloe vera gel applied to the affected area has proven to be very effective. Apply the gel from an Aloe vera leaf or a cream containing the gel to the affected area three times a day for five days. Repeat for four weeks. Benefits of Aloe Vera Juice/Gel
Psoriasis and Diet
The connection between psoriasis and diet has not been established with any certainty. However, a healthy diet and eating habits are essential for anyone with a chronic medical condition:
In addition, certain foods may trigger bouts of psoriasis and you should avoid such foods if you have this condition. It might be worthwhile to eat a gluten-free diet for several months to see if it helps clear up the condition.
Sugar - Limiting the amount of sugar in your diet may help lessen the severity of an outbreak.
Alcohol - Avoid alcohol, as it becomes sugar when digested.
Vegetables - A healthy diet full of raw vegetables is beneficial.
Multi-Vitamin - Take a multi-vitamin daily to ensure you are receiving all the necessary minerals and vitamins needed. Vitamin B-12 deficiency has been linked to psoriasis.
Evaluate your diet to see if any prescription medications list foods that interfere with their actions. Many prescription drugs cannot be taken with grapefruit. Foods that are high in citric acid render some medications useless. Consult your pharmacist if you have any questions regarding psoriasis medications and food interactions.
Psoriasis - Stress and Anxiety
Psoriasis home treatment should include an assessment of your stress and anxiety levels. By keeping a journal of your diet, stress levels and activities, you may notice a connection between high stress periods and outbreaks. Learn stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, biofeedback or yoga. Exercise is an excellent way to relieve stress and get healthy. Taking a magnesium supplement can help you relax during stressful times.
A psoriasis home treatment provides immediate relief and such treatments are safe to use. Eating a well balanced diet, exercising regularly and reducing stress may lead to less severe outbreaks.
Disclaimer: Always consult your medical professional before trying any homemade treatment. This site is designed for informational purposes only and is not rendering medical advice or professional services.
Like many skin disorders, the best psoriasis home treatment involves warm baths and compresses.