How Aloe Vera Can Help You Manage Psoriasis Pain

From healthcentral.com

This medicine-cabinet staple can serve as a soother for mild-to-moderate psoriasis. Experts share how to maximize its benefits 

Chances are, you already know about aloe vera’s ability to soothe sunburns and comfort otherwise irritated skin—making it a summertime must-have. But there’s a reason you might want to slather it on year-round, too: Aloe vera may be an effective treatment for psoriasis. 

Psoriasis (PsO) is a chronic condition caused by an overactive immune system that produces excessive skin cells, which appear as itchy or painful plaques on the skin. Aloe vera seems to ease psoriasis skin symptoms in the way that it calms a sunburn: through its powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Curious to know more? We asked top dermatologists what makes aloe vera one of the most effective home remedies for psoriasis, and how to use it to get the best results.

Can Aloe Vera Help Treat Psoriasis?

Aloe vera has been shown to be a promising treatment for several skin concerns, including psoriasis. “Aloe vera has established itself as a natural remedy for treating skin conditions because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties,” says Brendan Camp, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. (For that same reason, it’s also a popular home remedy for eczema.)

Multiple studies support aloe’s effectiveness for fast psoriasis flare relief, according to Steve Daveluy, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist and professor at Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit, MI. In fact, the results are so promising that aloe just might merit a spot in your psoriasis medicine cabinet.

Benefits of Aloe Vera for Psoriasis

The main advantage of aloe vera is that it may reduce the prominence of visible skin lesions that appear with plaque psoriasis, the most common kind of psoriasis. Dr. Camp points to a study in Tropical Medicine and International Health, which found that aloe vera can clear plaques and lower patients’ Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) scores, which is a measure of how severe a given case of psoriasis is. The research determined aloe was “helpful in addressing psoriasis symptoms such as redness, scaling, and number of patches,” he says.

Another study in the Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology & Venereology compared it to 0.1% triamcinolone acetonide (TA), a topical steroid, among patients with mild to moderate plaque psoriasis. By the end of eight weeks, the aloe vera cream seemed to be more effective at reducing patients’ PASI score, with the authors concluding: “Both treatments have similar efficacy in improving the quality of life of patients with mild to moderate psoriasis.”

Risks of Aloe Vera for Psoriasis

If you’re thinking about trying it, you should know that there are few to no risks of using aloe vera to treat psoriasis, since an allergy to aloe is very rare, according to Dr. Daveluy. “In fact, it’s the other ingredients in aloe vera products, like the preservatives, that have the potential to cause an allergic reaction,” he explains. “That means the risk of allergy to aloe vera products is no more than other skin-care products—and lower than many.”

A review in Phytotherapy Research of the current research on using aloe vera to treat psoriasis determined that it’s well-tolerated, and no serious side effects were reported.

                                                                            Getty Images/bymuratdeniz

How Does Aloe Vera Affect the Body?

Despite its effectiveness, “we don’t fully understand exactly how aloe vera works, since it contains multiple components that may be helping,” admits Dr. Daveluy. Some of those components contribute to aloe vera’s “immunomodulatory and antioxidant effects, which are likely beneficial in psoriasis,” he adds.

The impact on the immune system is a big deal. Aloe vera contains molecules called polysaccharides, which have been found to lower inflammation, accelerate wound healing, and even promote skin regeneration—so they’re great for your average cut or skin injury, even if you don’t have psoriasis. But one study in Molecular Medicine Reports, which measured the effect of the primary aloe polysaccharide on various cell cultures (including one that mimicked psoriatic skin), found that it could inhibit the production of skin cells triggered by the immune system. This ability is important because the immune system triggers skin cells to grow much more quickly than normal in people with psoriasis.

Second, as an antioxidant, aloe vera may help counteract oxidative stress, an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants in the body that leads to cell damage and is closely linked with inflammation in the skin. Finally, a systematic review of studies shows that polysaccharides found in aloe vera may also increase collagen production—which is key to helping wounds heal—and help skin retain moisture.

Applying Aloe Vera for Psoriasis

The current research has only found aloe helpful in treating mild to moderate psoriasis—so it may not be ideal for severe cases. And, as always, it’s best to use home remedies like this in conjunction with an overarching psoriasis treatment plan, so talk to your doctor first to make sure it fits into your management strategy.

If you’re using aloe vera directly from the plant on your skin, “it is a good idea to do a patch test first before using the gel more liberally on your skin,” says Dr. Camp. Watch out to be sure you’re not applying the aloe vera latex, which can cause skin irritation. (The latex is yellow, whereas the aloe vera gel is clear, according to the Mayo Clinic.)

What Type of Aloe Vera Should You Buy?

“If you’re using an over-the-counter aloe vera gel extract, make sure that it contains a high concentration of aloe vera,” says Dr. Camp. “Some products may claim to be aloe vera-based products, but list it far down on the ingredient list, meaning that aloe vera is present only in a small percentage.” (The National Psoriasis Foundation recommends looking for creams that contain at least 0.5% aloe.)

Creams may be your best bet, since gels can contain alcohol, which “carries a risk of stinging when applied,” says Dr. Daveluy. Still, if you already have an aloe vera gel that doesn’t cause discomfort, he says it’s likely OK to use.

If you don’t want to go with a pure aloe vera product, another option is to find the ingredient paired alongside other science-backed active ingredients for psoriasis. MG217 Psoriasis Medicated Multi Symptom Relief Ointment pairs aloe with coal tar, while TriDerma Psoriasis Control Face and Body Cream blends it with salicylic acid and colloidal oats. Both have the Seal of Recognition from the National Psoriasis Foundation, which indicates that they’ve been reviewed for safety by a panel of experts.

Psoriasis can cause serious discomfort, but in addition to a derm-approved treatment plan, aloe vera can bring you relief from symptoms. Try aloe for yourself and see if it helps—just make sure you’re buying the real deal to get real benefits!

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12 Ways to Treat Psoriasis at Home

From healthline.com

You may be able to manage mild psoriasis symptoms at home with supplements, moisturizers, or other remedies. But everyone is different, so it’s important to find what works for you and your symptoms.

Treating psoriasis

Psoriasis is a recurring autoimmune disorder that affects more than 7.5 million American Trusted Sourceadults.

It tends to appear pink or red, usually with silvery-white scales, on those that have fair to light skin tones. On medium skin tones, it may look salmon-coloured with a silvery-white scale, and on darker skin tones, it could look violet and the scale grey. Or it can also appear dark brown and difficult to see.

Even though it affects your skin, psoriasis actually begins inside your body in your immune system.

Psoriasis is a condition where your T-cells, a type of white blood cell, can become overactive to produce other immune markers that can cause an inflammatory reaction on the skin. The reaction on the skin shows up in the form of silvery-white scale, depending on the skin ton

Even though there’s no cure, many treatments exist to ease the symptoms of psoriasis. Here are 12 ways to manage mild symptoms at home.

1. Take dietary supplements

Dietary supplements may help ease psoriasis symptoms from the inside.

Fish oil, vitamin D, milk thistle, aloe vera, Oregon grape, and evening primrose oil have all been reported to help ease mild symptoms of psoriasis, according to the National Psoriasis Foundation.

Check with your doctor before taking supplements to make sure they don’t interfere with other health conditions you may have or medications you’re taking.

2. Prevent dry skin

Use a humidifier to keep the air in your home or office moist. This can help prevent dry skin before it starts.

Moisturizers for sensitive skin can keep your skin supple and moisturized.

3. Try aloe

Aloe vera has been shown in some cases to reduce redness and irritation caused by psoriasis. A 2010 studyTrusted Source found aloe vera gel cream to be slightly more effective in improving psoriasis symptoms compared to 0.1 percent triamcinolone acetonide, a steroid cream used to treat psoriasis.

More research is needed to show for sure if aloe vera can improve symptoms of psoriasis. However, the risk of trying aloe vera gels or creams is low, so it may be worth a try.

4. Avoid fragrances

Most soaps and perfumes have dyes and other chemicals in them that may irritate your skin. They can make you smell great, but they also can inflame psoriasis.

Avoid such products when you can, or choose those with “sensitive skin” labels.

5. Eat healthfully

Diet may play a role in managing psoriasis.

Limiting red meat, saturated fats, refined sugars, carbohydrates, and alcohol may help reduce flare-ups triggered by such foods.

Cold water fish, seeds, nuts, and omega-3 fatty acids are known for their ability to reduce inflammation. This can be helpful for managing psoriasis symptoms.

Olive oil may also have soothing benefits when applied topically to the skin. Try massaging a few tablespoons on your scalp to help loosen troublesome plaques during your next shower.

6. Soak your body

A lukewarm bath with Epsom salt, mineral oil, milk, or olive oil can soothe the itching and infiltrate scales and plaques. Oatmeal baths can also be very helpful and soothing for plaque psoriasis.

Be sure that the water is not hot. Hot water can cause more irritation.

Moisturize immediately after your bath for double benefits.

7. Get some rays

Light therapy involves exposing your skin to ultraviolet light under the supervision of a doctor.

Ultraviolet light can help slow the growth of skin cells triggered by psoriasis. This therapy often requires consistent and frequent sessions. Sitting in the sun for 10 to 15 minutes can also help reduce plaques.

However, too much sunlight and tanning beds aren’t the best options as they can also increase your risk of skin cancer.

Light therapy should always be done under the supervision of a doctor.

8. Reduce stress

Any chronic condition like psoriasis can be a source of stress, which in turn can worsen psoriasis symptoms.

In addition to reducing stress whenever possible, consider incorporating stress-reducing practices such as yoga and meditation. 

9. Avoid alcohol

Alcohol is a trigger for many people who have psoriasis.

A study in 2015 found an increased risk of psoriasis among women who drank nonlight beer. Those who drank at least five nonlight beers per week were nearly twice as likely to develop psoriasis compared to women who didn’t drink.

10. Try turmeric

Herbs are commonly used to treat many conditions.

Turmeric has been found to help minimize psoriasis flare-ups. It can be taken in pill or supplement form, or sprinkled on your food.

Talk to your doctor about the potential benefits for you.

11. Quitting smoking

Avoid tobacco. Smoking may increase your risk of psoriasis.

If you already have psoriasis, it can make your symptoms more severe.

12. Maintain a healthy weight

Being overweight or obese puts you at a greater risk of developing psoriasis. Obesity is also associated with more severe psoriasis symptoms, StudiesTrusted Source have found that losing weight can help improve these symptoms.

Here are some tips for losing weight:

• exercise on a regular basis
• cut back on refined carbs
• eat plenty of vegetables and protein

The takeaway

There isn’t a single answer for keeping the symptoms of psoriasis at bay. What works for one person may not work for another.

Some treatment options may have negative side effects for pre-existing conditions other than psoriasis.

While these remedies for psoriasis may help with mild cases, prescription therapy is required for more severe cases. Talk to your doctor before seeking treatment on your own.

A dermatologist can treat the thick, red, scaly patches of skin (also known as plaques) from psoriasis. They can also treat other parts of your body that moderate to severe psoriasis may affect, such as your scalp and nails. Consider checking with your dermatologist when you experience a flare or worsening symptoms.

Nearly a third of people with psoriasis develop a condition called psoriatic arthritis. This can cause swollen, stiff, or painful joints. A rheumatologist can determine if you have psoriatic arthritis and prescribe treatments to control your symptoms. This type of doctor specializes in treating arthritis and other musculoskeletal disorders.

Psoriasis has been linked to other health conditions, such as lymphoma, heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. A primary care doctor can help you find ways to reduce your risk of other conditions and improve your overall health. They can also screen you for early warning signs of psoriasis complications and refer you to a specialist, if necessary.

While psoriasis has no cure, it can be treated with a variety of prescription medications (like immunosuppressive drugs) and over-the-counter drugs (such as topical ointments). A pharmacist can provide information and tips on following your treatment plan and can make sure your medications are safe to take together. They can also answer questions or address concerns about your medications.

Stress has been shown to be a trigger for psoriasis flares. A psychologist, licensed professional counsellor, or clinical social worker can help you develop personalized ways to manage stress. Self-care techniques — such as breathing exercises, journaling, meditation, yoga, and stretching — can also help you ease stress.

Cutting back on foods that trigger psoriasis flares can help reduce symptoms. A dietitian can help you develop a nutritious eating plan that may potentially reduce inflammation in the body. They can also help you maintain a healthy weight to avoid obesity and reduce your risk of psoriasis-related complications, such as diabetes and heart disease.

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Psoriasis: Manage your symptoms with these home remedies

From newsbytesapp.com

Psoriasis appears owing to a problem in one's immune system.It causes red, scaly, and itchy patches on the skin due to inflammation and can be too daunting to deal with.Thankfully, certain natural and home remedies can mitigate your symptoms and offer you relief.However, consult a doctor before using them. Also, these remedies are not a replacement for medical treatments.

Coconut oil

Coconut oil has a rich amount of lauric acid that works well against psoriasis happening on the scalp.With its moisturizing properties, it removes dryness and eliminates scales or flakiness.All you have to do is, take a few drops of coconut oil and massage it deep into your scalp three to four times a week.Wash with a mild, hair-friendly shampoo.

Lavender oil 

Lavender oil is another fantastic home remedy for psoriasis as it is blessed with strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.Per a study published in 2015, this oil when diluted with coconut oil can keep your skin and scalp nourished, hydrated, and smooth. This keeps scaly formations at bay.Mix a few drops of lavender oil in one teaspoon of coconut oil and apply it.

Apple cider vinegar

National Psoriasis Foundation says that apple cider vinegar can offer respite from itching and irritation caused by psoriasis as it has natural antiseptic agents.The folks at this foundation suggest applying it "directly over the scalp several times a week" for better results.You can also dilute it in water and then apply it over the affected area.Once done, rinse with water.

Turmeric

Various studies have shown that turmeric can cut down on psoriasis formations.One of them included 34 participants who applied turmeric to the affected area for nine weeks and found a significant drop in their symptoms.In another study, 650 participants applied curcumin gel to their psoriasis lesions and found relief.Curcumin is an active component in turmeric and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Aloe vera

If it is a skin-related condition, it's no surprise that aloe vera can help manage it.Loaded with soothing and anti-inflammatory compounds, it can reduce itchiness, redness, scaling, and flakiness on the scalp and skin, keeping psoriasis away.

For this to work, simply squeeze out some fresh gel for aloe vera leaves and apply it to the affected area twice a day.

https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/5-home-remedies-for-psoriasis/story 

9 Home Remedies for Psoriasis: Do They Work?

From healthline.com

Every case of psoriasis is unique, so no single treatment method is guaranteed to help every case. That said, certain home remedies may provide relief for psoriasis symptoms.

The following are nine home remedies that have shown some promising results in providing relief for psoriasis symptoms and may provide some benefit to you.

1. Warm baths

A warm (not hot) bath can be soothing to the skin, especially if you’re living with psoriasis. You can try adding Epsom salt, mineral oil, colloidal oatmeal, or olive oil to help with itching and irritation.

The following tips will help ensure that your bathing doesn’t worsen your symptoms:

• Only bathe or shower once per day.
• Limit showers to 5 minutes and baths to 15 minutes.
• Use a moisturizing soap.
• Pat yourself dry and avoid rubbing.
• Apply a moisturizer following the bath.

Learn about oatmeal or Epsom baths for psoriasis.

2. Aloe vera

You can apply creams made from aloe vera plant extracts directly to the skin to help reduce discoloration, scaling, itching, and inflammation.

In a 2018 studyTrusted Source, researchers tested the effects of creams with either 50% propolis and 3% aloe vera or a placebo on over 2,000 people. They concluded that aloe vera may help lessen psoriasis symptoms.

The National Psoriasis Foundation recommends using creams that contain up to 0.5% aloe vera. You can apply these creams up to 3 times per day.

Learn more about using aloe vera for psoriasis.

3. Omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acids may help decrease inflammation in your body. This may be beneficial for psoriasis symptoms since systemic inflammation is the underlying cause of the itchy, discolored flakes.

Omega-3s can be found in a variety of foods, including:

• flaxseed oil
• nuts
• seeds
• soy
• fatty fish

Fish oil is also available as a dietary supplement.

However, existing research on omega-3 fatty acid supplements and psoriasis is mixed. According to an older 2014 meta-reviewTrusted Source of 15 trials evaluating fish oil for the treatment of psoriasis, 12 trials showed a benefit in psoriasis, and three showed no benefit.

In a 2017 survey of 1,206 people with psoriasis, about 45% of those who added omega-3 fatty acids to their diet saw an improvement in their skin.

However, a 2019 meta-analysisTrusted Source found there’s not enough evidence to support the use of fish oil supplements to treat psoriasis.

If you decide to take fish oil supplements, read the label carefully and consider talking with a doctor first. They may advise you to avoid taking them if you have other medical conditions or take other medications.

Learn more about omega-3 and psoriasis.

4. Turmeric (curcumin)

Turmeric is a spice used extensively in Indian, Middle Eastern, and other Asian cuisines. This distinctive yellow spice has an active ingredient called curcumin. Researchers have looked into the effects of curcumin on various skin disorders, including psoriasis.

In a 2018 review of studiesTrusted Source, researchers concluded that enough evidence exists to support the use of curcumin to help treat psoriasis. However, they did note the need for more extensive, placebo-controlled studies.

In a 2021 studyTrusted Source, researchers tested curcumin’s effects on mice. They found that it could help alleviate the symptoms in the mice test subjects, which is promising for potential human application.

Learn more about turmeric and psoriasis.

5. Oregon grape

Oregon grape or Mahonia aquifolium is an antimicrobial herb in the barberry family.

In a 2018 reviewTrusted Source, the authors found seven studies supporting the use of Oregon grape to treat psoriasis. These studies determined it safe and effective in treating psoriasis symptoms.

You can find Oregon grape in ointment and cream forms online or at some pharmacies or health stores.

Learn more about Oregon grape.

6. Maintaining a moderate weight

If you’re living with psoriasis, your chances of developing a comorbidity (a condition that develops due to or in association with an existing condition), such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, or obesity are higher.

Some ways to lose or maintain a moderate weight include:

• eating more whole foods, such as fruits and vegetables
• eating lean meats and other healthy proteins
• eating less sugar
• cutting out highly processed foods
• exercising consistently

Find out your ideal weight based on your height and age.

7. Using a humidifier

Try using a humidifier to keep the air in your home from getting too dry. Humidifiers add moisture to the air, which may help to prevent dryness that can irritate your already sensitive skin.

Experts say that dry, cold air is a potential trigger for psoriasis is a trigger for some people. If you find your psoriasis symptoms worsen during winter months or in dry air, a humidifier may help.

Learn more about humidifiers.

8. Stress-relieving activities

Stress is a known trigger for psoriasis flare-ups. Finding ways to reduce and manage your stress can potentially prevent flares or lessen their severity.

While no studies have been done to determine whether the following activities have a direct effect on psoriasis symptoms, they may help you to reduce stress in general, which may have some benefits to your psoriasis symptoms:

• meditation
• yoga
• deep breathing exercises
• aromatherapy
• writing in a journal

Learn more ways to relieve stress and anxiety.

9. Moisturisers

Keeping your skin moist plays an important role in managing your psoriasis symptoms. Moisturizers can help keep the skin from flaking and itching.

In fact, organizations like the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) note that moisturizer creams and emollients are standard therapy for psoriasis, alongside other therapies.

You should apply moisturizer at least once per day, following showers, in the morning, or before bed. You may find it helpful to establish a routine for moisturizing.

However, make sure you avoid moisturizers with heavy amounts of fragrance, dyes, or other additives. These can irritate the skin.

Learn more about psoriasis-safe moisturizers.

Frequently asked questions

The following sections provide answers to some frequently asked questions.

What foods clear up psoriasis?

No diet is currently recommended for psoriasis. But you may find that eating a diet that promotes a moderate weight and includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins helps prevent flares or worsening symptoms. It may also help prevent comorbidities from developing.

What triggers psoriasis?

There are several potential triggers for psoriasis. It’s important for you to learn your triggers, track them, and try to avoid them as much as possible. Not everyone will have the same triggers, but some common ones include:

• stress
• injury to the skin
• illness
• dry air
• weather
• certain foods
• alcohol

How can I get rid of psoriasis quickly?

Though home remedies may help soothe your symptoms, your best bet to clear psoriasis quickly is to talk with a doctor about formal treatments. A doctor can provide therapies that may help get your psoriasis under control and stop a flare-up.

The bottom line

Home remedies aren’t a replacement for your doctor’s prescriptions to treat psoriasis. But remedies like fish oil supplements, Oregon grape, and warm baths may help alleviate your symptoms.

However, there aren’t enough large, well-controlled clinical trials to prove that these remedies work well for everyone.

Anecdotal evidence or results from studies that only include a small number of people should be taken cautiously and with some skepticism. Keep in mind that what works for one person might not work for you.

Always tell your doctor before you start a new treatment or home remedy for psoriasis. Stop using any treatment that causes irritation, pain, or worsening of your symptoms.

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