Psoriasis is a chronic condition where the skin develops red, itchy patches and thick, silvery scales. In additional to conventional treatment, many people turn to alternative treatments as another way to deal with psoriasis symptoms.
The Mayo Clinic cautioned that a number of alternative treatments claim to ease the symptoms of psoriasis, but none have definitively been proved effective. However some are considered safe and may help to reduce symptoms, such as itching and scaling.
Here are 10 alternative treatments for psoriasis:
1) Sunlight
Scientists admit that they aren’t sure how it helps, but many people say their psoriasis symptoms improve when they’re exposed to the sun on a regular basis. Consult your doctor about how much time should be spent in sunlight.
2 Alternative Skin Treatments
There are many alternative skin treatments to help relieve burning, itching and redness. These include aloe vera, tea tree oil, oat extract, Dead Sea salt and Epsom salt.
3) Homeopathy
Homeopathy is said to stimulate the body's immune system to treat disease. Patients receive diluted doses of substances that homeopathic doctors believe would provoke similar psoriasis symptoms if taken at full dose.
4) Diet
DrWeil.com recommends following an anti-inflammatory diet. That means getting plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, particularly those rich in carotenoids. Carotenoids are found in corn, carrots, leafy greens, mangoes, squash, sweet potatoes and tomatoes.
5) Supplements
Omega-3 essential fatty acids are found in fish oil supplements and topical applications of Oregon grape. They may reduce inflammation caused by psoriasis, although study results are mixed, according to the Mayo Clinic. DrWeil.com also recommends evening primrose oil and extract of milk thistle. Talk to your doctor about any supplements you take as they may affect conventional psoriasis treatment.
6) Traditional Chinese Medicine
Traditional Chinese medicine uses acupressure points along channels through which life force is thought to flow. Pressure is applied to release blocked energy. When the energy is unblocked, psoriasis symptoms may be eased.
7) Acupuncture
An acupuncturist gently inserts thin needles into the body at key points. As with acupressure, this may release the flow of energy or endorphins into the body, and thus potentially relieving psoriasis symptoms.
8) Exercise
Regular exercise may be helpful for some people with their psoriasis symptoms.
9) Meditation and/or Yoga
Both meditation and yoga may be helpful in reducing stress, which some people believe can cause psoriasis flare-ups.
10) Massage and Reiki
Massage helps people to relax and de-stress. Reiki is a healing relaxation technique which is used for the same goals. EverydayHealth.com recommends that you find practitioners who have experience working with psoriasis.
If you're considering alternative treatments to ease your psoriasis symptoms, it’s a good idea to consult your doctor. He or she can help you understand the benefits and risks of each treatment, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Sources:
"Alternatives to Treating Psoriasis: Sunlight, Shark Cartilage Extract, Capsaicin Cream, Tea Tree Oil, Aloe, and More." WebMD. WebMD. Web. 2 Aug. 2015.
http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/psoriasis-treatment-13/alternative
"Health Centers." Psoriasis. Web. 2 Aug. 2015.
http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/ART03161/Psoriasis.html
"Psoriasis." Alternative Medicine. Web. 2 Aug. 2015.
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/psoriasis/basics/alternative-medicine/con-20030838
Thompson, Jr., Dennis. "6 Alternative Therapies for Psoriasis - Psoriasis Treatment and Management Guide - Everyday Health." EverydayHealth.com. Web. 2 Aug. 2015.
http://www.everydayhealth.com/health-report/psoriasis-treatment-management/alternative-therapies.aspx
Reviewed August 5, 2015
by Michele Blacksberg RN
Edited by Jody Smith