Herbal Treatment for Psoriasis
Herbs might not cure psoriasis, but herbal treatment for psoriasis can be a smart way to help reduce your pain, inflammation, and itching. Herbs should not be used without first consulting your doctor, and they should never be used as a replacement to your traditional medications.
Talk with your doctor before you start taking any herbs. Although they are natural, not all herbs are safe. People with certain conditions and people taking certain medications should be especially careful of what herbs they take as herbs may interact with medicine. Other herbs are best in small doses.
One herbal treatment for psoriasis is milk thistle. While no studies have been done specifically about psoriasis, milk thistle is known to inhibit the T-cell activation that occurs in psoriasis. Milk thistle can taken in either liquid or tablet form, but should be avoided if you are on male hormones or antipsychotics.
Oregano oil is another herbal treatment for psoriasis. The oil can be found at many health food stores or ordered online. Oregano oil is helpful because it has antifungal and antibacterial properties. It can be used topically or taken orally.
Turmeric, best known for its place in curry powder, can help relieve pain, inflammation, and swelling. While it can be purchased in capsule form, many people prefer to just buy the spice and flavor their food with it.
Pau d'arco is good for immunity in general and dermatitis in particular. It can be consumed as a tea or as a pill. Gotu kola is thought to improve broken skin.
While searching for more vitamins and herbs to use for herbal treatment of psoriasis, consider aloe, vitamin A, chamomile, bayberry, selenium, cayenne, and burdock.
Since stress can worsen your psoriasis, consider herbs that help relieve stress in addition to herbs that can help treat psoriasis. A cup of chamomile tea can help calm the nerves after a stressful day. Other people find success with St. John's wort.
Incorporating herbal treatment for psoriasis can help you reduce symptoms and relieve pain. Research all herbs first and discuss them with your doctor before you take any. Combining herbal remedies and traditional medicines can help you control your psoriasis.