Alternative Treatments and Home Remedies for Psoriasis

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For many people with psoriasis, suffering with painful symptoms like red, inflamed, flaking and itchy skin, is not at all fun. This chronic skin disease is thought to be caused by an overactive immune response and can be set off by a number of factors, both internal and external. Many of the Western treatment options that are available, such as steroid creams and oral medications, have a whole host of side effects that some people wish  to avoid.

Here are some alternative treatments that are natural and safe that may help and get you in better shape.

Herbal Remedies:

  • Aloe Vera: This plant in the cactus family contains a healing gel that can be liberally applied to your psoriasis. You can find it at a grocery store or pharmacy or pick up an actual plant from Home Depot. Cool home decor and medicine all in one!
  • Tea Tree Oil: This essential oil is thought to have antiseptic properties. It can help with irritated skin and can be applied daily in small amounts.
  • Dead Sea Salts: Soaking in a bath that contains Dead Sea Salts or even Epsom salts can help with scaly, itchy skin. Use warm water and stay submerged at least 15 minutes. Add a drop or two of Tea Tree essential oil – will make the bath smell great.

Exercise:

Not only is exercise important to maintain overall health and wellness, it is really important and beneficial for those suffering from psoriasis. Many find it hard due the chronic pain associated with psoriasis. Pool based activities such as swimming and water aerobics may be a good option as it’s easier on the body but allows you to still get in cardio. Yoga and meditation can also be great!

Acupuncture:

Acupuncture can be very effective at reducing the chronic pain associated with psoriasis. There are also points to reduce redness and itching.  Acupuncture takes an holistic approach – returning the body to it’s natural flow can help ease the pain and get you back in balance. I may also suggest an herbal wash that is only available from an acupuncturist.

Home Remedies:

  • Soak a towel in cold milk and apply to the area.
  • Add oatmeal to your bath or get Aveeno oatmeal bath at the pharmacy.
  • Rub the area with the inner side of a banana peel.
  • Cut several willow branches into 3-inch pieces and boil in a pot of water. Simmer until water becomes black. Wash area with this water a few times a day.
  • Slice water chestnuts and soak in rice wine vinegar. Crush into a paste. Apply the paste and cover with gauze. Change daily.
  • Use Bragg’s apple cider vinegar. Click here for more info.
  • Mario Badescu control cream has worked for many different skin ailments. I have clients that swear by it. Available at Nordstrom.
  • Emily skin soothers. Invented by a fellow acupuncturist! Check them out.

Sources: https://www.psoriasis.org/about-psoriasis

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