If you suffer from psoriasis, you are far from alone. There are around 7.5 million people in the United States who have it, and over 100 million around the world. Psoriasis causes dry and rough skin on different areas of your body such as hands, lips, mouth, feet, ears, scalp, nails, elbows, and eyelids. These areas can be itchy, sore, and downright uncomfortable when severe.

There is no cure for psoriasis, and the best way to manage and control your symptoms is to see a physician, who can recommend medications and other treatment options to calm the inflammation, ease pain and itching, and reduce redness of psoriatic skin. However, if you are looking for a more holistic approach for relief, there are a number of natural remedies that may help relieve symptoms in the meantime.

1. Apple Cider Vinegar

Keep a bottle of apple cider vinegar close to your shower, especially if you suffer from scalp psoriasis. This is an inexpensive therapy that can bring positive results in under a month. There are a couple ways you can apply it. You can apply it directly to the scalp and then rinse it out thoroughly once it has dried. If this feels like it is burning your scalp, dilute it with water in equal parts and then apply it. Avoid this option if your skin is cracked, as this will be extremely irritating and uncomfortable.

2. Salts

Add Epsom or Dead Sea salts to a warm-water bath. Soaking in this mixture for a minimum of 15 minutes is not only soothing to itchy skin, but it also helps to shed the scaly skin associated with psoriasis.

3. Tea Tree Oil

Using tea tree oil may be an effective natural remedy due to its antiseptic qualities, but so far this has not been proven scientifically. If you have psoriasis on your scalp, look for a shampoo that contains this oil. Test it on a small area of your skin first to make sure you are not allergic to it.

4. Nature-Based Creams

There are numerous natural creams made out of different plants and herbs that have shown to help relieve mild and moderate psoriasis. One is aloe cream, which can reduce redness and cut down on scales. Look for one made with 0.5 percent aloe and apply to the affected area a few times a day.

Search for Oregon Grape (Mahonia Aquifolium) cream. This herb has strong antimicrobial qualities and can help bring down redness and inflammation of the affected area. Another effective cream is made with avocado oil and vitamin B12.

5. Turmeric

Turmeric is an herb that is praised for its beneficial effects on health in general because it is a strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Taking it can help minimize the symptoms associated with psoriasis. You can add the herb directly to food (Indian food is typically high in turmeric) or take it as a supplement

Make an Appointment

Psoriasis can be extremely uncomfortable, and it can be embarrassing to go out in public when it is really bad. There are many treatment options, and every individual responds differently. If you have tried a variety of natural remedies and they have not been effective, or if you want additional help, Windsor’s Psoriasis Treatment Center of Central New Jersey is one of the most adept clinics for managing this skin condition. Fill out our online form or call the office today to set up your psoriasis consultation.