Psoriasis is a skin condition in which the immune system pushes skin cells to grow and mature faster than they normally would. As a result, the skin becomes red and covered with silvery scales, particularly around elbows, knees and scalp. Other regions, such as the nails, may also be affected. There are numerous medications for psoriasis, including some very potent immune-modulating drugs. While these are effective, they are also pricey and have some disturbing side effects. Some people get relief from simple psoriasis remedies.
Cilantro for Psoriasis:
Q. I’ve had psoriasis for as long as I can remember. It gets better in the summer, but in the winter my skin becomes itchy, red and flaky.
I always had a patch on my right ankle, but I just realized it is not there this winter. Perhaps it is because I have started putting cilantro in almost everything I eat.
A. Another reader told us that eating cilantro regularly helped control his psoriasis. In response, M offered this recipe:
“I came up with a simple formula for the cilantro and V8….Simply combine the 2 cups V8 and a full bunch of cilantro, pulsate in your blender.
“I add a bit of fresh lemon and a hint of cayenne, tastes great.”
There is no science behind this remedy, but we’re glad it is making a difference for you.
Other Psoriasis Remedies:
Other home remedies for psoriasis include oolong tea, three to four cups a day. This approach is actually backed by a study, although it is rather old now, and not directly focused on psoriasis. Japanese scientists found that eczema patients who had not responded to pharmaceutical treatments got results from drinking a liter (about four cups) of oolong tea daily for at least a month (Archives of Dermatology, Jan., 2001). We wish this would be tested further, for psoriasis as well as for eczema.
We heard years ago that eating salsa could help ease psoriasis symptoms. At least one reader found that applying chili oil directly to the plaques was helpful. Many readers also find that applying Listerine or apple cider vinegar daily to the affected skin can be helpful.
Supplements as Psoriasis Remedies:
We have received some reports from readers that taking biotin and resveratrol can calm psoriasis. Vitamin D may also help ease this chronic condition. Doctors may prescribe various types of light therapy. While these can be very effective (Foerster et al, PLOS One, Aug. 3, 2017), getting a bit of sun exposure in the summer (no sunburns, please!) can also help. So can oral vitamin D (). At the very least, people with psoriasis should make sure not to become deficient in vitamin D (Kechichian & Ezzedine, American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, online Oct. 9, 2017).
Others find relief taking turmeric, the yellow spice in curry, by mouth. Medicinal chemists believe that there is reason to expect turmeric could be helpful for this condition (Biofactors, Jan.-Feb., 2013), but we have seen few randomized controlled trials (Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Apr. 2008). Determining the correct dose may be a matter of trial and error. Curcumin, assumed to be the active ingredient in turmeric, has been studied for other health conditions at doses ranging from 150 mg three times daily to 1200 mg three times daily. Here is a review of cur cumin trials for skin conditions (Vaughn, Branum & Sivamani, Phytotherapy Research, Aug. 2016).
Those who want to try turmeric should check ConsumerLab.com’s analysis of turmeric supplements, as many failed to deliver the appropriate amount. The most common side effect is digestive distress. We always caution that people taking warfarin should not use either turmeric or curcumin, as this could lead to dangerous bleeding. Some people develop allergic reactions to turmeric.
Revised 11/2/2017
