Home Remedies for Psoriasis

There are many psoriasis home remedies out there, some effective, some not. Consider the following as being effective remedies.
Psoriasis is classified as an auto-immune disorder which manifests on the skin. It happens as a result of the immune system mistaking healthy skin cells as foreign bodies, and causing them to outgrow rapidly. Psoriasis is not contagious, but once diagnosed you will have it for the rest of your life. Initially, they may appear as small scaly patches, which may later develop into all over body distribution if not controlled.

The cause of psoriasis is not fully understood, but there appears to be a link to certain genes, as well as upon withdrawal of corticosteroids; the very drugs used to treat it, or environmental influences.

Psoriasis affects both males and females equally, and can first appear at any age, although teenagers and young adults are most commonly diagnosed.

Having psoriasis can result in severe discomfort, especially if enhanced care is not provided. Luckily, there are many psoriasis home remedies which you can benefit from and make your psoriasis more comfortable.

Psoriasis Home Remedies

Vinegar

Similar to Aloe Vera, Vinegar is also used to relieve minor burns or inflammatory skin conditions, in addition to being an antiseptic. To apply to affected lesions or plaques, soak cotton balls in solution and apply. Since psoriasis may also affect nails, soaking these areas would work better. To prepare an apple cider vinegar mixture, mix one cup to one gallon of water. Apply as needed.

Olive Oil

If psoriasis affects mainly your scalp, applying a bit of warm olive oil will do the trick. It will soften and help remove plaques, and is commonly done just before having a bath. Normal shampooing may be applied if desired afterwards.

Epsom Salts

Epsom salts mixed with warm water can be one of the cheapest psoriasis home remedies.  It will ease inflammation as well as aid in removal of plaques. Epsom salts is also believed to hasten healing of psoriatic lesions.

Aloe

Aloe is one of the most established skin care products available to man. Aloe has long been used to hasten healing of minor cuts and burns, but as of lately has been found to be one of the top psoriasis home remedies. It may be extracted from the plant or bought at a pharmacy, and applied to affected areas. It was found to promote removal of psoriasis plaques from the skin.

Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne Pepper possesses anti-inflammatory properties along with the ability to promote healing. Two studies reviewed in the Nov 1998 Issue of Archives of Dermatology showed that 0.025 % capsaicin cream, made from cayenne pepper, significantly decreased inflammation and plaque formation. Creams containing capsaicin can be easily obtained over the counter in most pharmacies, but ensure not to apply on broken skin, since the burning will be immense.

Castor Oil

This is one of the more commonly used psoriasis home remedies, especially by being left overnight on small lesions. Used in conjunction with baking soda, it has been found to work exceptionally well when used on the foot.

Banana Peel

Banana peel contains a unique fatty acid which bolsters the immune system. It helps to reduce incidence of flare ups, as well as controlling inflammation. To extract the oil from banana peel, it needs to be boiled and then separated from the water.

Milk Thistle

A drug commonly used for liver disorders, it has been found to be an effective, yet one of the most unknown psoriasis home remedies. It aids in blood flow and clearing bile acids which may improve cholesterol. It also works to decrease abnormal cell growth, even if only modestly, addressing the root problem of psoriasis.

Conclusion: Psoriasis Home Remedies

These common and easily accessible items offer hope to many psoriasis sufferers. Remember! this article is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to cure any disease, always remember to consult your doctor before attempting one of the psoriasis home remedies.