It can be overwhelming to manage an ongoing condition like psoriasis. But there are options to remedy psoriasis beyond traditional methods.
This article will discuss natural ways to treat psoriasis, including diet changes, nutritional supplements, topical treatments, and home remedies.
By implementing these holistic approaches, you can find relief from psoriasis symptoms and start to live a healthier life.
Understanding Psoriasis
Before exploring psoriasis natural remedies, it is important to first understand what psoriasis is, how it develops, and the main symptoms associated with it.
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that causes red, scaly patches to appear on the skin. It affects about 2-4% of the world’s population, and the severity of the condition varies from person to person.
Psoriasis is believed to be the result of the immune system overacting, causing it to mistakenly attack healthy skin cells.
This causes the skin to produce new skin cells at an increased rate, leading to patches of thick, scaly skin.
While the exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, some people may be more prone to developing it due to genetics or environmental triggers, such as stress. Psoriasis is not contagious and cannot be spread by skin contact.
The most common symptoms of psoriasis include: red, raised patches of skin; thick, scaly, or itchy patches of skin; and dryness and cracking of the skin.
Some people may also experience pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints.
Understanding the root cause of psoriasis and the symptoms associated with it are essential in developing a proper treatment plan.
While some people may be able to reduce the severity of their symptoms with over-the-counter medications or through lifestyle changes, others may need to consider more specialized treatments.
Fortunately, there are a number of natural remedies for psoriasis that can be used to help relieve symptoms and even prevent the condition from worsening. In the next section, we’ll explore some of these natural remedies and how they can be used to treat psoriasis.
Beneficial Diet Changes
When looking at natural remedies for psoriasis, making dietary changes can play an important role. Proper nutrition is essential for overall health, but for those with psoriasis, it is even more important.
Making dietary changes may not cure psoriasis, but it can help reduce flare-ups and even improve overall health. Here are some diet changes that can be beneficial for those with psoriasis:
- Increase Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Increasing intake of omega-3 fatty acids has been found to reduce inflammation associated with psoriasis. Sources of omega-3 fatty acids include fatty fish like salmon, mackerel and sardines, as well as flaxseeds, walnuts, and chia seeds.
- Decrease Omega-6 Fatty Acids: Omega-6 fatty acids can trigger inflammation and worsen psoriasis symptoms. It is important to reduce consumption of processed foods, fried foods, and red meat, since they are high in omega-6 fatty acids.
- Avoid Certain Foods: Trigger foods, such as dairy, egg, gluten and red meat, are often associated with flare-ups. It is important to be aware of what foods trigger psoriasis symptoms and to avoid them as much as possible.
- Increase Antioxidant-Rich Foods: Antioxidants can help reduce inflammation associated with psoriasis. Foods that are rich in antioxidants include fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds.
- Increase Vitamin D Intake: Vitamin D can help reduce inflammation and improve skin health. Sources of vitamin D include fatty fish, cod liver oil, mushroom and fortified foods like milk, orange juice and cereal.
Making dietary changes can be beneficial for those with psoriasis. It is important to be aware of what foods can trigger psoriasis symptoms, as well as to increase foods that are high in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids.
Additionally, vitamin D can be beneficial for reducing inflammation and improving skin health. However, it is important to note that dietary changes may not be a cure for psoriasis.
Nutritional Supplements and Products
The use of nutritional supplements and products as part of a holistic approach to treat psoriasis is becoming more popular each day.

There are numerous products that are being used to help support the body’s natural healing process and provide relief from the associated symptoms of the skin condition. 5 of the most commonly used natural remedies to treat psoriasis include:
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids – These healthy fats not only provide benefits to overall health, but they may also help reduce inflammation in psoriasis. The most effective source of Omega-3 is typically fish oil, though you could also opt for flaxseed oil or walnuts as alternative sources.
- Vitamin D – Vitamin D helps to reduce inflammation and may even reduce the severity of psoriasis flare-ups. A good way to increase your Vitamin D intake is to spend more time outdoors in the sunlight, however some people opt for Vitamin D supplements.
- Probiotics – Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that promote a general healthy balance in your gut, which may then help to reduce the severity of psoriasis symptoms. Sources of probiotics include yogurt, fermented vegetables and probiotic supplements.
- Turmeric – Turmeric is a traditional herb that contains a compound called curcumin, which may help to reduce inflammation and diminish the severity of psoriasis symptoms. Turmeric can be taken as a supplement or you could add it to your cooking.
- Astragalus – Astragalus is an immunity boosting herb that can help to reduce inflammation, as well as give you a much needed boost when it comes to fighting off the potentially debilitating effects of psoriasis. Astragalus can be taken as a supplement (capsule or tea).
When looking for psoriasis natural remedies and treatments, it is important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all approach.
Every individual is unique and has different needs, so it is best to consult a doctor before beginning any kind of treatment plan.
Furthermore, research studies suggest that finding an effective combination of treatments may be the most beneficial in terms of finding relief.
Natural Topical Treatments
When it comes to treating psoriasis naturally, topical treatments can be key.
Many people suffering from psoriasis resort to corticosteroids and similar prescription topical treatments.
While these creams might be effective, they can also cause side effects and skin irritation. Natural topical treatments, on the other hand, can provide just as much relief while avoiding these issues.
Here are some of the more popular natural topical treatments for psoriasis:
- Aloe Vera Gel – As one of the most popular natural remedies for psoriasis, aloe vera gel offers cooling relief and can help to reduce inflammation. It is best to purchase a pure aloe vera gel made from 100% organic aloe leaves. You can apply the aloe vera gel directly to the affected skin on a regular basis.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Apple cider vinegar can help to reduce itching, redness and scaling associated with psoriasis. It also helps to restore the skin’s pH balance, providing extra protection. To use apple cider vinegar for psoriasis treatment, dilute it in an equal parts water solution and apply it directly to the affected skin, or soak the affected area in the solution for 15 minutes.
- Coconut Oil – Virgin coconut oil contains lauric acid, which has anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it helpful in treating psoriasis rashes and scaling. Coconut oil is also known to be beneficial for skin hydration and healing. To use coconut oil as a natural psoriasis treatment, simply massage it directly into the affected area.
- Tea Tree Oil – Tea tree oil is another popular natural remedy for psoriasis. It has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which helps to reduce psoriasis symptoms and even out skin tone. Tea tree oil must be added to a carrier oil such as almond oil or coconut oil before being applied to the skin.
- Oatmeal – Another natural remedy for psoriasis is oatmeal. Oats contain antioxidant compounds and compounds that help to reduce itching and irritation. To use oatmeal for psoriasis treatment, grind up a cup of oats and add them to a warm bath. Soak in the bath for 15 minutes, then pat dry.
Home Remedies for Psoriasis
Home remedies have long been used as an alternative to traditional medicine to treat a variety of conditions, including psoriasis.
While there is no definitive cure for psoriasis, many people have had success in reducing the severity of their psoriasis symptoms with natural remedies.
Here are five home remedies to help you treat your psoriasis:
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar is a natural remedy for psoriasis that is often used in combination with other home remedies. This remedy is thought to reduce the severity of psoriasis symptoms by reducing inflammation and irritation. To use, mix one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with eight ounces of water and apply it directly to the affected area. Leave it on for 15 minutes, then rinse off with water.
- Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is a popular home remedy for a variety of skin conditions, including psoriasis. The anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties of coconut oil are thought to help soothe itchy, irritated skin caused by psoriasis. To use, apply a thin layer of coconut oil directly to the affected area and massage it in. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse off with water.
- Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is a natural moisturizer that is often used to relieve itching and irritation caused by psoriasis. To use, extract the gel from an aloe vera leaf and apply it directly to the affected area. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse off with water.
- Epsom Salt Bath: Epsom salt baths are a natural remedy for psoriasis that has been used for centuries. The magnesium in the salt is believed to reduce inflammation and irritation caused by psoriasis. To use, draw a warm bath and add two cups of Epsom salt. Soak in the bath for 15-20 minutes, then rinse off with water.
- Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil is a natural remedy that has been used to treat a variety of skin conditions, including psoriasis. This natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory oil is thought to reduce the itching and irritation caused by psoriasis. To use, mix one teaspoon of tea tree oil with one cup of water and apply it directly to the affected area. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse off with water.
Stress Reduction Strategies
Living with psoriasis can be a difficult and often isolating experience.
It’s important to remember that managing your stress levels is an important aspect of managing your psoriasis.

Stress can aggravate psoriasis symptoms, so it’s essential to take steps to reduce stress and its associated impacts.
Here are a few simple ways to reduce stress levels:
- Exercise: Regular physical activity has many benefits, including reducing stress. Exercise releases endorphins, which can improve your mood and help manage your stress levels. This can include a brisk walk, swimming, cycling, or any type of physical activity that works for you.
- Yoga: Yoga is considered a form of mind-body therapy and has many beneficial effects on both the mind and body. It can help decrease stress and improve concentration and focus.
- Interact with Nature: Spending time outdoors in nature has been shown to reduce stress levels. Taking a walk, going for a hike, or just sitting and admiring the beauty of nature can all be beneficial.
- Spend Time with Friends: Socializing with friends and family can provide a sense of comfort and reduce stress levels. Spending time with friends can also be a great opportunity to talk about your feelings and issues that may be causing stress.
- Meditation: Meditation has been shown to reduce stress levels significantly. Meditation can be done in a variety of ways, including guided meditation, mindfulness meditation, or simply sitting in silence and focusing on your breathing.
- Get Enough Sleep: Consistent, quality sleep is essential for good health, mental clarity, and stress management. Establish a consistent sleep schedule and make sure to get enough rest each night.
These are just some of the ways to reduce stress and improve your overall health. Implementing a few of these strategies regularly can help manage psoriasis symptoms and overall health.