Herbal supplements for psoriasis: Examining the evidence behind popular remedies

 

Psoriasis can be a challenging condition to manage, and many people look for alternative therapies to supplement their conventional treatments. Herbal remedies have long been used to address various health issues, and psoriasis is no exception. Although there is a growing interest in using natural remedies, it's essential to consider the scientific evidence supporting their use.

In your quest for relief, you're likely to come across various herbal supplements and topical treatments that claim to help alleviate psoriasis symptoms.

Three popular natural remedies include Mahonia aquifolium, indigo naturalis, and Aloe vera, which are believed to reduce inflammation and improve skin cell functioning.

As you explore these options, it's crucial to consult with your healthcare provider and research the effectiveness of each herb before incorporating them into your routine.

While some herbal remedies show promising results in small-scale studies, others may lack evidence to support their use in managing psoriasis.

Understanding the research behind these alternative therapies can help you make informed decisions and potentially find a successful addition to your overall treatment plan.

Key Takeaways

• Herbal supplements commonly used for psoriasis: Aloe Vera, Turmeric, Oregon Grape, Indigo Naturalis, Capsaicin, Vitamin D, and Milk Thistle.
• Mechanisms of action: Anti-inflammatory effects, Keratinocyte inhibition, Immunosuppression.
• Topical vs. Oral application.
• Available forms: Topical creams and gels, Oral capsules, and liquid supplements.
• Complementary and alternative therapies, diet and lifestyle modifications, psychological strategies, expert opinions and recommendations, dermatologist insights, and guidelines from the National Psoriasis Foundation.
• Adverse effects and safety considerations.

Table of Contents

Common Herbal Supplements for Psoriasis

Mechanisms of Action

Clinical Evidence

Topical vs. Oral Application

Adverse Effects and Safety

Potential Side Effects

Drug Interactions

Complementary and Alternative Therapies

Diet and Lifestyle Modification

Psychological Strategies

Expert Opinions and Recommendations

Dermatologist Insights

Guidelines from the National Psoriasis Foundation

Common Herbal Supplements for Psoriasis

It is important to note that this table is not exhaustive and there may be other potential side effects or interactions with medications that are not listed here.

Supplement Name	Recommended Dosage	Function	Potential Side Effects
Aloe Vera	50-200 mg of aloe vera gel per day for oral intake	May help reduce inflammation, itchiness, and redness associated with psoriasis	Oral intake can cause diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and electrolyte imbalances
Turmeric	500-2000 mg of curcumin per day	May help reduce psoriasis symptoms by reducing inflammation	High doses may cause gastrointestinal side effects, including nausea, diarrhea, and stomach upset
Oregon Grape	10% ointment applied twice daily for topical application	May help reduce inflammation and itching associated with psoriasis	Can cause skin irritation and may interact with certain medications
Indigo Naturalis	0.5-1% ointment applied twice daily for topical application	Has been shown to be effective in treating psoriasis	Can cause skin irritation and may stain clothing
Capsaicin	0.025-0.075% cream applied 3-4 times daily for topical application	May help reduce pain and itching associated with psoriasis	Can cause skin irritation and burning sensations
Vitamin D	1000-4000 IU per day	May help reduce inflammation and improve psoriasis symptoms	High doses may cause hypercalcemia and kidney damage
Milk Thistle	140 mg of silymarin per day	May help reduce inflammation and improve liver function, which can benefit psoriasis patients	Can cause gastrointestinal side effects and may interact with certain medications

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a succulent plant that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties.

It contains a variety of active compounds, including polysaccharides, glycoproteins, and anthraquinones, which have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties.

Aloe vera has been shown to be effective in reducing inflammation, itchiness, and redness associated with psoriasis.

Aloe vera can be applied topically as a cream or gel, or taken orally as a supplement.

Topical application is generally safe and can be used to soothe and moisturize the skin. Aloe vera gel can be applied directly to the affected area and left on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off. Aloe vera cream can also be used as a moisturizer after bathing or showering.

Oral intake of aloe vera is less common, but it can be used to help reduce inflammation and other symptoms associated with psoriasis.

The recommended dose for oral intake is 50-200 mg of aloe vera gel per day.

Aloe vera can have gastrointestinal adverse effects, including diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and electrolyte imbalances, when used orally.

Additionally, it could interfere with certain medicines like diuretics and blood sugar-lowering drugs.

Try to find high-quality aloe vera products that are free from contaminants and adulterants. Look for products that are certified by organizations such as the International Aloe Science Council (IASC) or the United States Pharmacopeial Convention (USP).

Turmeric

Turmeric is a spice that is commonly used in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine. It contains a variety of active compounds, including curcumin, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiseptic properties.

Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric that is responsible for many of its health benefits.

Curcumin has been shown to be effective in reducing inflammation and other symptoms associated with psoriasis.

It works by inhibiting the activity of certain enzymes and cytokines that are involved in the inflammatory response. This can help reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with psoriasis.

The recommended dose of curcumin for psoriasis is 500-2000 mg per day. High doses of curcumin may cause gastrointestinal side effects, including nausea, diarrhea, and stomach upset.

It may also interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and chemotherapy drugs.

Choose high-quality curcumin supplements that are free from contaminants and adulterants.

Look for products that are standardized to contain a certain percentage of curcuminoids, the active compounds in curcumin.

It is also recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any curcumin supplements for psoriasis, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a medical condition.

 

Oregon Grape

Oregon grape is a medicinal plant that is native to western North America. It has been used for centuries by Native American tribes for its medicinal properties.

Oregon grape contains a variety of active compounds, including berberine, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties.

Oregon grape may help reduce inflammation and itching associated with psoriasis. It works by inhibiting the activity of certain enzymes and cytokines that are involved in the inflammatory response.

This can help reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with psoriasis.Apply topically as a cream or gel. The recommended dose is 10% ointment applied twice daily.

It is crucial to remember that Oregon grape used topically has the potential to irritate the skin and interact with a number of drugs, including blood thinners and antibiotics. Additionally, nursing or using it while pregnant are not advised.

It's crucial to select pure, high-quality Oregon grape goods that aren't tampered with in any way. Seek out goods that are standardized to have a specific amount of berberine, the main ingredient in Oregon grapes.

Before utilizing any Oregon grape products for psoriasis, it is also advised to speak with a healthcare professional, especially if you have a medical condition or are on any drugs.

 

Indigo Naturalis

Indigo naturalis is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of skin conditions, including psoriasis.

It is derived from the leaves of the plant Indigofera tinctoria, which is native to Asia. Indigo naturalis contains a variety of active compounds, including indirubin and indigo, which have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiviral properties.

Indigo naturalis has been shown to be effective in treating psoriasis in some studies. It works by inhibiting the activity of certain enzymes and cytokines that are involved in the inflammatory response.

This can help reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with psoriasis.

It can be applied topically as a cream or ointment. The recommended dose is 0.5-1% ointment applied twice daily.

It is important to note that topical application of Indigo naturalis can cause skin irritation and may stain clothing. It may also interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and antibiotics.

Always use high-quality Indigo naturalis products. Look for products that are standardized to contain a certain percentage of indirubin and indigo, the active compounds in Indigo naturalis.

Capsaicin

A natural substance present in chili peppers called capsaicin has been utilized for its therapeutic benefits for ages.

It has been demonstrated to have analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects, making it a viable psoriasis therapeutic alternative.

Psoriasis-related discomfort and itching may be lessened with capsaicin. It functions by preventing certain nerve fibers from sending pain signals to the brain. This can lessen the psoriasis-related discomfort, burning, and itching.

Capsaicin can be applied topically as a cream or gel. The recommended dose is 0.025-0.075% cream applied 3-4 times daily.

It is key to remember that topical usage of capsaicin might result in skin irritability and burning sensations, particularly in the initial few days. Additionally, using it to open wounds or skin that has broken is not advised.

It's important to select pure, high-quality capsaicin items that aren't tampered with in any way. Look for items that have a standardized amount of capsaicin in them.

Before utilizing any capsaicin products for psoriasis, it is also advised to speak with a healthcare professional, especially if you have a medical condition or are using any drugs.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is essential for bone health, immune function, and skin health. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce inflammation and improve psoriasis symptoms.

Vitamin D can be obtained from sunlight, diet, and supplements. Sunlight is the most efficient way to obtain vitamin D, but it is important to protect the skin from UV radiation to prevent skin damage and skin cancer.

Foods that are high in vitamin D include fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified foods such as milk and cereal.

Supplements are also a convenient way to obtain vitamin D. The recommended dose for psoriasis is 1000-4000 IU per day.

However, it is important to note that high doses of vitamin D can cause hypercalcemia, a condition in which there is too much calcium in the blood. This can lead to kidney damage, nausea, vomiting, and other symptoms.

Additionally, it's necessary to select pure vitamin D pills devoid of impurities and toxins. Look for items that have received certification from trustworthy agencies like ConsumerLab.com or the United States Pharmacopeial Convention (USP).

Milk Thistle

Milk thistle is a plant that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. It contains a variety of active compounds, including silymarin, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and liver-protective properties.

Milk thistle may help reduce inflammation and improve liver function, which can benefit psoriasis patients.

Psoriasis has been linked to liver dysfunction, and studies have shown that psoriasis patients often have elevated levels of liver enzymes.

Milk thistle may help improve liver function and reduce liver inflammation, which can in turn improve psoriasis symptoms.

The recommended dose of milk thistle for psoriasis is 140 mg of silymarin per day. High quantities of milk thistle might, however, result in gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea, diarrhea, and stomach distress.

As well as interfere with certain medicines including blood thinners and chemotherapy therapies.

Be sure to choose high-quality milk thistle supplements that are free from contaminants and adulterants. Look for products that are standardized to contain a certain percentage of silymarin, the active compound in milk thistle.

 

This is true for all of these supplements, in order to see your best results you must find products with the highest concentration of the main ingredient. I know I’ve mentioned it many time already. I probably sound like a broken record (for those of you who remember what those were) but many products are so diluted these days, that it’s hard to know if your getting true results or not. So if you want to make sure you have given a supplement an honest chance, compare ingredients on the back label and buy the ones that give you the most dosage of your desired ingredient.

Mechanisms of Action

Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Herbal supplements offer a variety of potential benefits in treating psoriasis, one of which is their anti-inflammatory effects.

Many of these herbs work by reducing inflammation, which is a key aspect of psoriasis, an autoimmune disease commonly associated with arthritis. By targeting inflammation, some herbs can help to alleviate the symptoms of the skin condition.

For example, indigo naturalis and Aloe vera have both been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties. Indigo naturalis works by downregulating interleukin-17 (IL-17), a pro-inflammatory cytokine that plays a crucial role in the development and maintenance of psoriasis.

Meanwhile, Aloe vera is known for its soothing and cooling effects, which can help to reduce irritation and inflammation when topically applied to the skin.

Keratinocyte Inhibition

Another key mechanism of action in herbal treatments for psoriasis is the modulation of keratinocyte proliferation. 

Keratinocytes are the primary type of cell found in the epidermis, responsible for producing the protein keratin, which helps to protect your skin from external factors.

In psoriasis, keratinocytes proliferate excessively, contributing to the formation of raised, scaly plaques on your skin.

Certain herbs, such as Mahonia aquifolium, have demonstrated their ability to inhibit keratinocyte proliferation and induce apoptosis (cell death) of these cells, thus promoting a more balanced and healthy skin environment for those afflicted by psoriasis.

Immunosuppression

Given that psoriasis is an autoimmune disease, targeting the immune system is another important mechanism through which herbal supplements can offer relief.

These herbs may work by suppressing the immune-inflammatory response, which can help to control the overactive immune system associated with autoimmune diseases like psoriasis.

For instance, a mixture of traditional Jordanian herbal supplements was found to have a positive effect on psoriasis treatment, potentially due to the specific combination of herbs used and their cumulative effect on the immune system.

By modulating the immune response, these herbal treatments may offer alternative or complementary approaches to managing your psoriasis symptoms.

While herbal remedies may not be a one-size-fits-all solution to psoriasis, they do offer potential benefits through various mechanisms of action, such as anti-inflammatory effects, keratinocyte inhibition, and immunosuppression.

To determine the most suitable treatment for your needs, consider consulting a healthcare professional or integrative medicine practitioner for guidance on incorporating these herbal remedies into your psoriasis management plan.

Clinical Evidence

Aloe Vera

Clinical studies have shown that aloe vera may be beneficial for psoriasis patients, particularly in cases of mild to moderate psoriasis. One article published in the Medical News Today found that compounds in aloe vera were effective in reducing inflammation and help modulate the immune system.

Aloe vera works by reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing. It contains a variety of active compounds, including polysaccharides and anthraquinones, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Aloe vera also contains enzymes that can break down dead skin cells, which can help reduce scaling and itching associated with psoriasis.

To use aloe vera for psoriasis, you can apply a gel topically to affected areas. However, it is important to choose a product that contains at least 0.5% pure aloe vera, as some products may contain very little aloe vera or may be adulterated with other ingredients.

It is also important to do a test patch of the product first to make sure you do not have an allergic reaction.

Turmeric

While the evidence for turmeric's effectiveness in treating psoriasis is limited, some studies have shown improvements in psoriasis area severity index (PASI) scores when using turmeric.

But it’s efficacy and safety have not been confirmed. As mentioned here in an article from the National Library of Medicine.  

Turmeric can be consumed in the diet or taken as a supplement. To add turmeric to your diet, you can try adding it to your meals as a spice or taking turmeric supplements.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplementation regimen, especially if you have a medical condition or are taking any medications.

Turmeric supplements may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and chemotherapy drugs.

Choose high-quality turmeric supplements that are free from contaminants and adulterants. Look for products that are standardized to contain a certain percentage of curcumin, the active compound in turmeric.

It is also recommended to choose products that have been third-party tested for purity and potency.

Oregon Grape

According to the search results, there is some scientific evidence that suggests Oregon grape may reduce the severity of psoriasis symptoms when applied topically to the skin Healthline, it’s also mentioned here near the bottom of the page Mayo Clinic under alternative medicine.

There are no clinical studies that support the oral consumption of Oregon grape for the treatment of psoriasis, according to the search results from mypsoriasisteam.com. 

Concerns have also been raised regarding possible interactions between Oregon grape and popular medicines.

While some studies suggest that Oregon grape may be a potential treatment option for psoriasis, more research is needed to fully understand its efficacy.

It is also important to note that Oregon grape may cause skin irritation in some individuals, and it may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and antibiotics.

Indigo Naturalis

Indigo naturalis is a traditional Chinese medicine ingredient that has shown promise in treating psoriasis.

It is extracted from the leaves and stems of the indigo plant, and it has been used for centuries in China to treat a variety of skin conditions.

It has been studied as a potential treatment for psoriasis and has shown promise in several studies.

Pros:

• Indigo naturalis shares several therapeutic mechanisms with current psoriasis treatments, such as regulation of keratinocyte proliferation and differentiation, restoration of epidermal barrier function, and reduction of inflammatory processes source: PubMed.

 

• Indigo naturalis has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of psoriasis and has shown effectiveness in clearing heat, detoxifying blood, eliminating spots, reducing fire and calming panic source: PubMed.

 

• Indigo naturalis has been shown to improve skin cell connections, which are often disrupted in psoriasis, by increasing the amount of claudin-1, a protein important for normal skin function source: LearnSkin.

 

• Indigo naturalis has been found to be effective even in treatment-refractory patients with ulcerative colitis source: Gastroenterology Advisor.

Cons:

• Indigo naturalis may cause skin irritation, itching, and redness in some patients

 

• Indigo naturalis may have a blue color that can stain clothing and skin source: AAD.org.

 

• The safety and efficacy of Indigo naturalis have not been established in large-scale, randomized controlled trials.

 

However, further studies are needed to confirm these findings and determine the long-term effects of indigo naturalis on psoriasis.

 

Capsaicin

Capsaicin is a compound found in chili peppers that has been studied for its potential role in treating psoriasis.

Capsaicin works by reducing the amount of substance P, a neurotransmitter that is involved in pain perception and inflammation. By reducing substance P, capsaicin may help reduce itching, redness, and scaling associated with psoriasis.

Although some individuals may experience a burning sensation initially, capsaicin has been shown to be a safe and effective treatment option for psoriasis.

Pros:

• Capsaicin cream has been shown to reduce pain caused by various types of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and fibromyalgia source: Healthline.

 

• Some studies have indicated that using capsaicin could help improve symptoms of psoriasis and relieve nerve damage pain from conditions like shingles and HIV source: Verywell Health.

 

• Capsaicin cream can provide temporary relief of minor pain from arthritis, strains, and sprains, as well as minor back pain source: Medical News Today.

 

• Capsaicin supplements may have anti-inflammatory properties, which could help combat free radicals in the body.

Cons:

Capsaicin cream may cause skin irritation, burning, and redness in some patients source: Healthline.

Capsaicin cream should not be applied to open wounds, and patients should avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.

Capsaicin supplements may cause gastrointestinal side effects, such as stomach pain, diarrhea, and nausea source: Healthline.

Capsaicin cream may not be effective for all patients with psoriasis, and more research is needed to determine its efficacy source: PubMed.

More clinical trials are needed to fully understand and verify the effects of capsaicin on psoriasis on a larger scale.

It is also important to note that capsaicin may cause a burning sensation initially, and it may not be suitable for individuals with sensitive skin or who are allergic to chili peppers.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is essential for maintaining healthy skin, and it plays a crucial role in regulating the immune system.

One of our top sources of Vitamin D is the sun.Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to a variety of skin conditions, including psoriasis.

Topical vitamin D analogs are frequently used in psoriasis treatments due to their ability to regulate skin cell growth and differentiation.

Pros:

• Vitamin D plays an important role in skin health, and research suggests that low levels of vitamin D may be associated with an increased risk of psoriasis source: Medical News Today.

 

• Some studies have found that applying vitamin D to the skin, especially in combination with corticosteroids, may be an effective treatment for psoriasis source: Medical News Today.

 

• Vitamin D supplements have been shown to be effective in treating adults with severe vitamin D deficiency, which can result in bone pain, muscle weakness, and soft bones (osteomalacia) source: Mayo Clinic.

 

• Oral vitamin D supplementation may be an effective adjuvant treatment option in psoriasis source: PubMed.

Cons:

• High doses of vitamin D supplements can be toxic and cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and weakness source: Mayo Clinic.

 

• Vitamin D supplements may interact with certain medications, including some cholesterol-lowering drugs and anti-seizure medications source: Mayo Clinic.

 

• The optimal dosage and duration of vitamin D supplementation for psoriasis treatment are still unclear, and more research is needed to determine its efficacy source: PubMed.

 

• While vitamin D deficiencies have been linked to psoriasis, it is not clear whether vitamin D supplementation can prevent or cure psoriasis source: Healthline.

Further research is necessary to determine the most effective dosages and application methods for vitamin D-based treatments.

It is also important to note that excessive vitamin D intake can lead to toxicity, and it may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and calcium channel blockers.

Milk Thistle

Milk Thistle, also known as Silybum marianum, is a plant that has been used for centuries to treat liver and gallbladder disorders.

It contains several active compounds, including silymarin, which has been shown to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective properties.

Milk Thistle may be beneficial for liver diseases, such as cirrhosis, hepatitis, and fatty liver disease.

It may also have potential benefits for other health conditions, such as lowering blood sugar in people who have type 2 diabetes, but more studies are needed to confirm its benefits.

In a combination with other supplements, it is thought that milk thistle might improve the symptoms of indigestion.

And evidence exists that Milk Thistle may be hepatoprotective through a number of mechanisms: antioxidant activity, toxin blockade at the membrane level, enhanced protein synthesis, antifibrotic activity, and possible anti-inflammatory or immunomodulating effects.

Pros:

• Milk thistle contains a flavonoid called silymarin, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation associated with psoriasis source: MyPsoriasisTeam.

 

• Some studies have suggested that milk thistle may help improve liver function, which can be beneficial for people with psoriasis who are taking certain medications that can affect liver function source: Healtheries.

 

• Milk thistle is generally considered safe and well-tolerated, with few reported side effects source:  National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health..

 

• Milk thistle is widely available as a dietary supplement and can be easily incorporated into a psoriasis treatment regimen source: National Library of Medicine.

Cons:

• The evidence supporting the use of milk thistle for psoriasis is limited, and more research is needed to determine its efficacy source: National Library of Medicine.

 

• Milk thistle may interact with certain medications, including some blood-thinning medications and drugs that are metabolized by the liver source: National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.

 

• Milk thistle may cause allergic reactions in some people, particularly those who are allergic to plants in the same family source: National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.

 

• Milk thistle is not a substitute for conventional psoriasis treatments, and people with psoriasis should consult with a healthcare provider before using milk thistle or any other dietary supplement.

 

It is important to note that Milk Thistle may cause side effects in some individuals, such as gastrointestinal upset, headache, and allergic reactions. It may also interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and cholesterol-lowering drugs.

Topical vs. Oral Application

Topical Creams and Gels

When it comes to managing psoriasis symptoms like itching, skin irritation, redness, erythema, and scales, you might consider using topical creams and gels. These remedies are applied directly to your skin, providing targeted relief for affected areas.

Herbal treatments such as turmeric have shown promising results in reducing inflammation and offering antibacterial properties. Additionally, some systematic reviews have evaluated herbal therapies for their effectiveness in managing psoriasis.

Popular herbs found in topical treatments for psoriasis include:

• Sophora flavescens root
  
• Lithospermum erythrorhizon root
  

Oral Capsules and Liquid Supplements

On the other hand, you can also explore oral herbal medicines for psoriasis treatment. These remedies come in various forms such as capsules or liquid supplements and address systemic inflammation, potentially improving your condition from within.

While some clinical studies have shown benefits of oral herbal medicines, it's essential to note the diversity of interventions tested and the methodological issues in some controlled studies.

This means the efficacy of oral herbal supplements for psoriasis might not be as clear as those of topical treatments.

Both topical and oral herbal remedies can potentially help you manage your psoriasis symptoms.

It's essential to consult your healthcare provider before adding any new herbal treatments to your existing regimen as they can guide you in choosing the most suitable option for your needs.

Adverse Effects and Safety

Potential Side Effects

When considering herbal supplements for psoriasis, it's essential to be aware of potential side effects.

Common side effects associated with these remedies include:

• Pain: Some herbal supplements may cause discomfort or pain when applied to the skin or taken orally.
  
• Nails: Certain supplements may initially worsen nail psoriasis before improving.
  
• Skin irritation: Topical herbal treatments might lead to redness, itching, or irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin.
  
• Cooling: Some remedies may have a cooling effect, which could be uncomfortable for certain individuals.
  

In some cases, more serious adverse effects can arise, such as hypercalcemia (elevated calcium levels in the blood) and increased homocysteine levels.

These issues can be detrimental to your overall health, so it's crucial to discuss potential risks with your healthcare provider before starting any herbal supplement regimen.

Drug Interactions

Herbal supplements may interact with conventional medications you may already be taking, causing unwanted effects or reducing the effectiveness of your prescription drugs.

To avoid potential drug interactions, consider the following precautions:

1. Consult your healthcare professional before starting any new herbal supplements, especially if you're already taking medications for psoriasis or other conditions.
   
2. Keep track of all your medications and supplements, and share this information with your healthcare providers.
   
3. Stay informed about any known interactions between your medications and herbal supplements. Research from sources like PubMed can be helpful in understanding potential risks.
   
4. Report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider as soon as possible.
   

By being proactive about your safety and monitoring for adverse events, you can minimize potential risks associated with herbal supplements for psoriasis.

Remember to always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment to ensure it's appropriate for your specific needs.

Complementary and Alternative Therapies

Diet and Lifestyle Modification

Making adjustments to your diet can help you manage psoriasis, a chronic condition that affects the skin.

A balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can contribute positively to your overall health.

Some studies have suggested that omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil, can alleviate psoriasis symptoms due to their anti-inflammatory properties.

To increase your intake of omega-3 fatty acids, include EPA and DHA-rich foods such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines in your meals.

In addition to omega-3 fatty acids, you may want to consider taking vitamins and supplements such as vitamin D and selenium, as they may help improve skin health.

Besides adopting a healthier diet, the National Psoriasis Foundation also recommends maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular exercise, reducing alcohol consumption, and quitting smoking.

Psychological Strategies

Living with a chronic condition like psoriasis can be challenging and may lead to stress and anxiety.

Therefore, incorporating psychological strategies into your daily routine can be beneficial in managing these emotional aspects.

Practicing meditation and yoga regularly can help reduce stress levels and promote relaxation. These activities have been shown to alleviate the severity of psoriasis symptoms in some individuals.

The practice of meditation and yoga can be complemented by other stress-reduction techniques such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and visualization.

You may also seek professional help from a therapist or join a support group to share your experiences and learn coping strategies from others living with psoriasis.

Remember that complementary and alternative medicine therapies such as herbal or TCM should not replace conventional treatments, but they can be used alongside them to enhance your overall health and well-being.

Consult with your healthcare provider before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle, and keep in mind that what works for one individual may not necessarily work for another.

Expert Opinions and Recommendations

Dermatologist Insights

According to dermatologists, when it comes to herbal supplements for psoriasis, a few options have shown promise. Mahonia aquifolium and indigo naturalis have the most evidence for their efficacy.

Meanwhile, there is also some support for using aloe vera, neem, and extracts of sweet whey.

It is important to remember that these herbal remedies should be considered as complementary treatments, not replacements for conventional psoriasis treatments.

Always consult with your dermatologist before starting any herbal supplements, as they can help guide you on which options might work best for you and ensure that they don't interfere with other medications.

You should also be aware that, while these remedies may help manage psoriasis symptoms, they often require consistent use over an extended period to show results.

Guidelines from the National Psoriasis Foundation

The National Psoriasis Foundation also provides guidelines for patients seeking alternative and complementary treatments for psoriasis, including herbal supplements. Keep the following points in mind:

• Fish oil supplements have demonstrated consistent evidence supporting their efficacy for psoriasis, as they may lower inflammation in the body and improve heart health. This is important, as psoriasis patients often have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

 

• A nutritious diet and maintaining a healthy weight can be beneficial in managing psoriasis symptoms. Speak with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian for tailored advice to support your skin, heart, and overall health.

 

• The National Psoriasis Foundation also emphasizes that certain herbal remedies, such as the ones previously mentioned, may provide relief, but stresses the importance of discussing any treatment plan with your healthcare provider.
  

Several herbal supplements have shown promise for treating psoriasis, but it's important to consult with your dermatologist before incorporating them into your treatment plan.

Incorporating dietary changes, such as adding fish oil supplements and maintaining a healthy weight, can also help manage symptoms and improve overall health.

 

FAQ’s

Q: What are herbal supplements for psoriasis?

A: Herbal supplements for psoriasis are natural products derived from plants that are believed to have potential benefits in managing psoriasis symptoms. These supplements are often used as alternative or complementary therapies to conventional treatments.

 

Q: What are some common herbal supplements for psoriasis?

A: Common herbal supplements for psoriasis include:

• Aloe Vera: A plant known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
• Turmeric: A spice that contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
• Oregon Grape: A plant with berberine, which may help reduce inflammation.
• Indigo Naturalis: A traditional Chinese medicine that shows potential in managing psoriasis symptoms.
• Capsaicin: Found in chili peppers, it may relieve itching and inflammation.
• Vitamin D: A nutrient that plays a role in skin health and immune function.
• Milk Thistle: Known for its antioxidant properties, it may support liver health.

 

Q: How do herbal supplements for psoriasis work?

A: Herbal supplements for psoriasis may work through various mechanisms of action, including:

• Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Many herbal supplements have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the skin.
• Keratinocyte Inhibition: Some supplements may help regulate the growth and differentiation of skin cells, preventing excessive scaling and thickening.
• Immunosuppression: Certain herbs may modulate the immune system's response, potentially reducing the autoimmune inflammation associated with psoriasis.

 

Q: What clinical evidence supports the use of herbal supplements for psoriasis?

A: The clinical evidence supporting the use of herbal supplements for psoriasis varies. Here is a summary of the current research on some popular supplements:

• Aloe Vera: Limited evidence suggests it may reduce psoriasis severity and improve quality of life.
• Turmeric: Preliminary studies indicate that curcumin may have anti-inflammatory effects and could be beneficial for psoriasis patients.
• Oregon Grape: Some research suggests that topical application of Oregon Grape may help alleviate psoriasis symptoms, but more studies are needed.
• Indigo Naturalis: Promising results have been seen in studies using Indigo Naturalis ointments, but further research is required.
• Capsaicin: Studies show that capsaicin-based creams can provide relief from itching and inflammation associated with psoriasis.
• Vitamin D: Supplementation with vitamin D may have a positive impact on psoriasis symptoms, particularly in individuals with vitamin D deficiency.
• Milk Thistle: Limited research suggests that milk thistle extracts may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, but more studies are needed.

 

Q: What are the different application methods for herbal supplements?

A: Herbal supplements for psoriasis can be applied topically or taken orally. The methods of application include:

• Topical Creams and Gels: Many herbal supplements are available in the form of creams or gels that can be directly applied to the affected skin areas.
• Oral Capsules and Liquid Supplements: Some herbal supplements are taken orally in the form of capsules or liquid preparations. These are ingested and absorbed systemically.

 

Q: Are there any adverse effects or safety concerns associated with herbal supplements for psoriasis?

A: While herbal supplements are generally considered safe, they can still have potential side effects and interactions with other medications. It's important to consider the following:

• Potential Side Effects: Some individuals may experience skin irritation, allergic reactions, or gastrointestinal issues when using herbal supplements.
• Drug Interactions: Certain herbal supplements may interact with prescription medications, leading to adverse effects or reduced effectiveness. It's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before using herbal supplements, especially if you're taking other medications.

 

Conclusion

Herbal supplements for psoriasis offer a natural and alternative approach to managing the symptoms of this chronic skin condition. They have gained popularity due to their potential benefits and minimal side effects. However, it's important to note that the clinical evidence supporting their use varies, and more research is needed to establish their efficacy and safety.

 

Herbal supplements should not replace prescribed treatments but rather be considered as complementary or alternative therapies. It's recommended to incorporate diet and lifestyle modifications, psychological strategies, and expert recommendations to enhance overall psoriasis management. Seeking advice from dermatologists and healthcare providers, and referring to guidelines from the National Psoriasis Foundation, can help you make informed decisions.