Natural Remedies for Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a painful, embarrassing medical condition that affects millions of people with rash like, scaly, itchy, burning skin. It is a non-contagious autoimmune disease that primarly attacks the skin, but can affect the joints as well (arthritic psoriasis).

While there is no "cure" for psoriasis, there are several natural, herbal remedies that can be effectively used to treat psoriasis.

1. Aloe Vera -

Aloe Vera has had several studies conducted and most are promsing. In fact, one study demonstrated that aloe vera was effective in decreasing psoriasis symptoms in 25 out of 30 people using it over 16 weeks, compared to a placebo that only 2 out of 30 people showed improvement. It is probably best to use fresh aloe vera gel, not a commercial product with aloe vera in it.

2. Capsaicin Cream -

Capsaicin is the natural compound in red peppers that makes them hot. A cream made from this compound can help relieve psoriasis symptoms. In fact, a study conducted with .025% capsaicin cream showed it decreased redness, scaling, and joint pain in people with arthritic psoriasis. Be very careful if using capsaicin cream, because it acts like pepper spray if it touches the eyes, nose, mouth, or any open oriface of the body.

3. Menthol for decreasing itch

Menthol has been approved by the FDA to decrease itch. this can be very helpful for psoriasis sufferers who are experience moderate or severe psoriasis breakouts. A menthol bath can work wonders for these folks.

As always, consult a doctor before trying any treatment for psoriasis. There are more herbal remedies and natural treatments for psoriasis, however, these have been the most researched, and have clinical trials that have proven they can work to help relieve psoriasis symptoms for some, if not most, people.