Home Remedies Web

Psoriasis Home Remedy

Find psoriasis treatments and home remedies for psoriasis, using natural cures and herbal products.

Shahzad Malik, Ph.D.
3–4 minutes
Psoriasis Home Remedy

Signs and Symptoms of Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic, non-contagious disease that is characterized by itchiness and a skin rash. The rash is usually red and slightly raised, with silvery, scaling patches on top of the red regions. The infection usually affects the elbows, knees, scalp, fingernails, and trunk of the body. Psoriasis can also lead to arthritis-like joint pain.

Note that it is sometimes difficult to differentiate between psoriasis and eczema, since both often exhibit similar symptoms. A common way to differentiate between the two diseases is by seeing which area of the body is affected. Psoriasis often affects the back of the elbows and front of the knees (extensor surfaces), while eczema usually affects the inside of the arms and the back of the knees (flexor surfaces). Eczema is also more often found on the ankles than psoriasis.

Causes of Psoriasis

The underlying cause of psoriasis is unknown. However, what we do know is that the symptoms of psoriasis occur when skin cells begin to mature more rapidly than normal. As a result, these poorly developed cells cannot shed quickly, resulting in a build-up of skin which leads to the thick and scaly rash.

Suspected triggers of psoriasis include:

  • Family history of psoriasis.
  • Stress or anxiety.
  • Reaction to certain drugs.
  • Certain infections such as strep throat.
  • Drinking alcohol.

A few studies have also found that decreasing the consumption of fatty meats (such as pork) helps to reduce the appearance of scaly psoriasis patches. Reducing caffeine consumption was found to have a similar effect.

Home Remedies and Natural Treatments for Psoriasis

Baking Soda

Baking soda is an effective way to treat the itchiness associated with psoriasis. Simply dissolve 1/3 cup of baking soda into 1 gallon of water, and then soak a washcloth into this mixture. Wring out the cloth and then apply it directly to the affected skin. Repeat this several times.

Coconut Oil

Coconut Oil has been found to be an excellent natural treatment for relieving psoriasis. A common recommendation is to take 2 tablespoons of virgin coconut oil each day. It can either be consumed directly from the spoon, or you can mix it into a fruit smoothie, sautee vegetables with it, or use it as a replacement for butter when eating pancakes. Another option is to apply coconut oil topically onto the affected area 3 times per day.

Petroleum Jelly

One of the best ways to control the build-up of skin that occurs due to psoriasis is to make sure skin is well moisturized. Petroleum jelly is an effective moisturizer, so simply apply a small amount to the affected areas each day especially after taking a bath or a shower. It is also important to apply moisturizer within a few minutes after a bath or shower.

Sunlight

Many doctors prescribe artificial ultraviolet light treatments to patients suffering from psoriasis. A less expensive alternative is to simply get more sunlight! Start with 5-10 minutes of sun exposure, preferably during non-peak hours. Gradually increase exposure time, but avoid overexposure and use sun protection for unaffected areas.

Exposure to the sun can enhance the production of Vitamin D, which has been found to be effective at treating psoriasis.

Chamomile Tea Bath

Chamomile is believed to help reduce the inflammation associated with psoriasis, while also potentially helping to inhibit further growth of psoriasis plaque. So here’s a great natural remedy for psoriasis that is also calming and relaxing at the same time! Simply take 4 or 5 chamomile tea bags, and steep them in 4 cups of boiling water for about 15 minutes. Let the tea cool slightly, and then mix the entire tea into a bathtub full of warm water. Swish it all around so that it is spread evenly throughout the bathtub, and then take a soak in the tub for around 20 minutes.

References

  1. Coconut Oil for Psoriasis –
    Medically reviewed by Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, et al.

  2. Petroleum Jelly for Psoriasis – Daniel Maroto-Morales, et al.
  3. Sun exposure induces rapid immunological changes in skin and peripheral blood in patients with psoriasis
     – E Søyland, et al.

Medical disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and isn’t a substitute for professional medical advice. Talk to your doctor before trying a new remedy, especially if you’re pregnant, nursing, taking medication or managing a health condition.

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122 responses

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  1. Tammy

    For Psoriasis, get some strong probiotics and take on an empty stomach every morning one hour before you eat.

    Reply
  2. Ami

    I’ve had Psoriasis since I was 13, and that is like for more than 30 years now. There were some periods when it was ok, but what I definitely can tell is that the biggest cause for it is the stress.
    I’ve noticed that the black seed oil is really a great remedy, so I usually have 1 spoon a day in the morning, before breakfast. Now i’m also taking Omega 3 and vitamin B. I’ve just got coconut oil today and I’m going to try it.

    Reply
  3. Tomekia Jackson

    If you drink, stop. Also buy some organic coconut oil and take two tablespoons daily and rub it on your skin, I Promise you will get excellent results. I’ve had psoriasis since 1988 and now after taking organic coconut oil and applying it on the skin, my skin looks like a new born’s. I never thought my skin would ever clear up. I’ve also used humari injection and that may have made a difference too. YOU HAVE TO ATTACK PSORIASIS FROM THE INSIDE!

    Reply
  4. eve hoffman

    I use a organic coconut oil without mgo. I found at Walmart that works great for me. Don’t worry about the brand name just be sure the oil is not processed. I have psoriasis on my hands and feet. It’s hard to maintain yet but I find the coconut oil is the best. I do add cinnamon oil when they itch which helps heal and stop the itch. Just be sure to only add a few drops to good amount of coconut oil so the cinnamon does not burn you. The area will get hot, yet you will have relief when the heat subsides. Good luck.

    Reply
  5. Nic

    For the coconut oil, make sure it is ‘cold pressed’ as this will keep as many of the nutrients in the oil as possible. It will say on the label how it has been processed and packaged. Thanks for the article. My partner has had psoriasis since he was a child. Will give coconut oil a go.

    Reply
  6. kamrul hasan chowdory

    Natural and organic products are very effective for eczema. They work better than many non-herbal creams in the market.

    Reply
  7. Sheila Flaminiano

    I’ve been using DermalMD Psoriasis Treatment serum for about one month. Since I began to use this, I’ve noticed a remarkable difference in the psoriasis that has troubled me for the last six years. My skin has become more supple and less itchy – it looks much better as well as feels better. The balm has a great scent and the fact that it is all natural is really important to me as I am very allergic to many products.

    Reply
  8. Lin

    I am suffering from psoriasis too. It’s only on my sole and palms. I don’t know what to use and what to avoid. Which coconut oil should I use. Is there a specific one. I live in Mumbai.

    Reply
  9. Ashish

    Generally heavy drinking is considered as a trigger for psoriasis.
    Try to cut down on alcohol consumption if it is not possible for you to quit. And, consult your doctor and tell him/her about your alcohol consumption so that medicine dosage can be optimized accordingly if you are on medication.

    Reply
  10. ashish agarwal

    I developed psoriasis at the age of 21 and no one in my family had heard of psoriasis before that. Hence, it was not an issue of genes. For me, chronic constipation, indigestion, disturbed life style and high level of stress caused this skin problem.
    After trying almost everything with very little benefit, now I have adopted the holistic healing approach with change in diet, life style and use of some commonly available herbs. It is working amazingly well for me.

    Reply
  11. Danica

    I was diagnosed with psorisis when I was 8 years old and I’m 38 now. It’s been an uphill battle for most of my life. I’ve tried numerous treatments and countless trips to Dermatologist. It’s frustrating and exhausting! The only treatment I have found to be worthwhile is the Humaria injection, Tazorac gel, Clobatasol ointment and organic Coconut Oil as a topical treatment. Having Psorisis is not a punishment but it can be and sometimes does feel like it. Just be yourself and love yourself even at your worst, is the best advice I can give. Best of love and luck to you!

    Reply
  12. anil

    Which soap and what kind of coconut oil should be used – Ayurvedic or Homeopathic? Which one is better for Psoriasis?

    Reply
  13. JJ

    Last night I put coconut oil on my elbows, covered it in a saran wrap and then in a gauze to keep it all in place. I woke up this morning and my elbows were so much better. I cried from relief. The redness was gone by 50% so now it has a pinky tone. The scaling/flaking was also dramatically reduced, almost to nothing. I still have lots to go but after seeing the results of just one night of application, I am in high spirits. I intend to do this every night for the next week to see how it goes.

    Reply
  14. jayaraj

    My wife was suffering from psoriasis and this site has helped us in some ways. Thanks!

    Reply
  15. Shelly

    I have never had a flare up, but out of the blue I got this awful rash on the back of both elbows up my arms and my knees. It’s been two weeks and no relief. I’m pretty sure this is what it is. I was told to just stay really moisturized by using Vaseline daily.

    Reply
  16. Ajay

    Hi I am Ajay 40 years old. I’m suffering from pulmoplantor psoriasis for the last 10 years. I’ve used allopathy, Ayurvedic and homeopathy medications for its treatment. But it is not cured. I feel very bad because of this horrible disease.

    Reply
  17. Puden

    To Corrine47:
    to be sure, psoriasis is an irritation, but it can be kept under control. Avoid tomatoes and potatoes. Avoiding caffeine and alcohol is sometimes suggested, but I still use them both, and still keep the psoriasis in check. Change your bath/shower soap. The following work for me:
    Pine tar soap; Dead Sea mud soap; Dead Sea salt soap; African black soap; sandalwood soap;
    castille soap; pine tar shampoo and Tegrin T-Gel shampoo. I’ve read that coal tar soap is helpful. I ordered some, but at the time of this writing, I am awaiting the shipment. Depending on the severity of your case, you might consider soaking in a bath with Dead Sea salt (available online, in 5 lb. bags). You don’t need to buy any special creams or medications to stop psoriasis itch.
    Mustard turns off the itch. Just rub it in. If you’re concerned about the smell, no problem. After it dries, the smell goes away.

    Reply
  18. trisha

    Can you apply the cold pressed coconut oil to the scalp?

    Reply
  19. George

    Diet is key . Avoid caffeine,yeast milk.

    Reply
  20. corrine47

    I hate this disease. It’s horrible. Trying different vitamins right now.

    Reply
  21. Beth

    @ April Cerda, try applying cold pressed organic coconut oil onto the affected skin 2-3 times daily. It is a natural emollient and seems to work!

    Reply
  22. April Cerda

    Someone help me.  It’s taking over my life!

    Reply
  23. Rachel

    Petroleum jelly does not provide moisture, it only locks it in. It’s not a good relief. Coconut oil works wonders and quickly. Make sure you’re not allergic first. It is a cure as long as you incorporate it into your everyday life and there are many other great health benefits of coconut oil. I’ve had psoriasis for 12 years (since 12 years old) it went away with in a week or two, no inflamed skin or scaly patches. I had it on my elbows and patches on my legs and stomach and on my scalp. All gone.

    Reply
  24. ian

    Hi i’m Ian from the Philippines. I’ve had psoriasis for around 4 months. Creams from dermatologists are not working for me. I want to buy psoriasis free for life but where here in Philippines? Do you have a contact number..please..thanks.

    Reply
  25. dino

    hello, i’m dino from the philippines, i’ve had psoriasis around 8 years, i’ve used mostly steroid ointments like diavobet but it’s not good to use for a long time (coz of the side effects). i had it off for a while but it came back when i had a strep throat.so i will try using what you have stated coconut oil, apple cider vinegar, baking soda and epsom salts. Thank you for comments, it helps me feel better knowing there are other people like me out there and are helping one another. That itself is a treatment coz it relieves stress. Take care everyone.

    Reply
  26. Arun Shanghavi

    I suffer from Psoriasis since last 8-9 years.I live in Calcutta,India,am 72 years male and have some thing to comment on.As i have to gather my thoughts,i shall get back in a day or two.

    Reply
  27. Susan

    Inverse psoriasis has been very challenging. What helps me, stops the internal itching within 24 hours is auto hemo therapy. it is saving me!!!

    Reply
  28. Silvia

    I have SUFFERED for 4 years with pustulars on hands and feet while working on a military base hauling gravel where it was dusty a lot. We found 55 gal drums rotted by rust, when dug up..I truely believe my ps is associated but in what way? I’ve been researching since I can’t walk n e way..and just started military gases and poisons. As you all after thousands of $ it’s getting to the point where I cannot take it anymore.

    Reply
  29. Lily

    Hi, creams from dermatologists are not working for me. I have tried white vinegar on my psoriasis then apply olive oil after, it’s working for me. Rashes on my arms have thinned and are going away. Rashes on my legs are bigger so some have dried and the rest are not getting larger. It’s has been 3 weeks and i can see my skin now 🙂
    Diet is important too. Yeah, i think it’s connected with candida overgrowth. I avoided nightshades,avoided sugar and bread, took vit D3 and zinc supplements. I’m working on cutting down my caffeine intake. I’m also starting to prepare bone broth, helps my gut. I think we need to heal internally before the symptoms goes away 🙂

    Reply
  30. Jan

    I have used Protopic ointment for eczema on my skin for years with amazing results, not sure if it would have the same results for psoriasis but worth checking out.

    Reply
  31. Lola PuertoRico

    You can find the 100% Organic coconut oil at Walmart,in the baking isle at Walmart. Same isle as cooking oils and shortening. ITS CHEAPER THAN THE HEALTFOOD STORES, AND IT’S THE SAME ONE. I’m using it and helps a lot, you will see in few days! GOOD LUCK PEOPLE, WE ARE ON THE SAME BOAT, AND IS NOT EASY. I PRAY EVERY DAY FOR A CURE. I’m with this for 10 years…

    Reply
  32. Neda Hall

    My mother had psoriasis on over 40% of her body. Go to a bee keeper and get liquid propolis. After having scabby sores on her body for over 50 years, the propolis (in 3 days) had her skin looking like a baby’s behind. It works great and quick.

    Reply
  33. Lorraine

    I have suffered from psoriasis since I was 16 (now 56) and the best and only treatment that I know that will definitely heal psoriasis is proved by the Psoriasis & Skin Clinic here in Australia. Fantastic results!

    Reply
  34. Deniz (Dennis) Appleby

    Hey everyone! My name is Deniz. I’ve had psoriasis for almost 2 years now. I’m 13 years old, when I first got it I got it from my father who had it badly on his arms and legs. I didnt care much for it at the time, but later in time, it started going on my knees and legs. I think that when my dad died 6/21/2012 it really struck. I had all these emotions going through my head about life and school that I got really fat (170) and got pig patches of it. Now, for about a month it got very tiny but then started to get out again. I currently have it on my hand, legs, arms, and majorly my elbows. If you dont have it yet youre so lucky. and to anyone who has it Im here for you, and even though I’m a kid, my friends think I should be a therapist haha. Anyways, Im defiantly going to try the coconut oil, bcuz ive tried the doctors recommendation and it doesnt work at all, tried it twice a day for 1 month and nothing happened. But a tip thats helped me is sunlight and water. Thank you everyone else who commented on this, these have really helped.

    Reply
  35. therese

    I’ve had psoriasis since the age of 16. I am not completely healed, I still have it on my knees and elbows, I’m gonna try this coconut oil, just like I try almost everything. MY SCALP IS FINALLY HEALED. A friend with the same scalp problem gave me her cure. First, No hairspray, gel, or hair products of any kind. Second and most important. Wash your hair everyday. Use any shampoo, doesn’t have to be tar or psoriasis shampoo. Just what you have at home. Let your hair air dry, of course your scalp will peel if it is bad like mine was. But in a short time your scalp should heal. It should go without saying, wash your hair everyday but I have found a lot of people with scalp psoriasis don’t wash their hair everyday because of the peeling. I hope this helps some of my fellow suffers out there. Just remember, when your psoriasis gets you down, EVERYBODY HAS SOMETHING…

    Reply
  36. craig post

    Thanks to all who took the time to add your helpful suggestions! Although my case is relatively mild, it was nonetheless embarassing and maddening as many
    of you can also agree. My dry and flaky skin occured on my nose forehead, and sensitive spots of my face that I needed to shave on a regular basis. As you would probably guess sometimes I would avoid shaving around my chin and mouth area or it would resemble something like raw meat. I will definitely try some of the things that were mentioned !
    Thanks again!

    Reply
  37. Beth

    My daughter is 18 and has had excema since birth. Just within the last year, she had a flare up that has never gotten better, but severely worse. We found out a couple weeks ago that she has psoriasis, no excema. Her skin was so bad 2 days ago that we were willing to do anything to help her. I read up on psoriasis online and kept seeing coconut oil as a solution. I bought some extra virgin organic coconut oil and starting applying liberally several times a day. This morning when she got up, her skin is 50x better! The itching has subsided and her skin has stopped oozing. I urge anyone that has issues like this to please try it. I bought a fairly lg tub at Walmart for . Best wishes!

    Reply
  38. vangelia Whitakeer

    I have had scalp psoriasis since i was 13, didn’t know what it was; and always scratched my scalp; it would bleed and i would get bald spots. When i went to bootcamp and drank all that water my psoriasis stoped; I also drink acv in water and rinse my scalp in it. i also went natural’

    Reply
  39. Becca

    About 7 months ago I had a major patch of psoriasis appear on the front of my neck. Im in nursing school so im sure the stress is what triggered it again. Right now I don’t have insurance so I looked around for home remedies cause I cant handle the pain, itching, burning, and most of all, the looks from others and the comments. I had someone say, thinking I couldn’t hear them, that I looked like a meth head and I should be ashamed to be in public. That was the last straw, I was humiliated. So, after searching this is what Im trying….. A mixture of baking soda, salt, water, and lotion(containing ceteayl alcohol, sodium). No exact measurements were givin, so i just winged it and made it into a paste like consistency. Apply to area, and let sit for 30min to 1 hour(until dry). Wipe off with a soft towel, gently. Burns like hell at first, but Im noticing results and I have only done it once so far! I’m willing to try anything and I know how everyone here feels so I wanted to share my little recipe. Hope everyone finds their own remedy, and can finally reach a therapeutic level of comfort 🙂

    Reply
  40. Anne Horning

    I have had psoriasis for almost 3 miserable years. I have done every cream and topical with some results, but none that are long-lasting. I have done excimer laser on my hands and feet as well as Soriatane and Humira. My hands and elbows are good with the exception of a quarter sized spot on one palm. My feet are a different story. Nothing has cleared them. They crack and I often feel the soles splitting while I am walking. I am on my feet all day and it is truly painful.i will try the coconut oil and turmeric and see if it makes a difference. My feet are disgusting and I dread summer shoes!

    Reply
  41. SK

    Firstly i am not able to distinguish whether i have eczema or psoriasis. As Dermatologists claimed it as Eczema while homeopathic doctor claim it as psoriasis.
    It seemed like numular eczema but now i see ozzing wounds which crystallizes after some times this make me feel its psoriasis. I have my skin condition for past 14 months all it started was with a small dot size wound. Dermatologists diagnosed it as eczema and put me on anti-boitics n topical steriods it went away for the moment and came back again with itchiness & red flarries all over the body. Tried 4 different dermitalogists in past 10 minths nothing worked as permanent solution.
    Now on homeopathy regime with de-toxification process hoping fr best

    Reply
  42. rao

    A skin problem should always be give due attention, cannot ignore it away as easily as some bruise. It all started as a Bruise to me and slowly turned out to be eczema. I “hunted on the net” and found VCO. Was very happy to read about it and how it has helped in the upkeep of health in general. So what happens is VCO when used externally helps immensely in retaining moisture and keeps the affected skin away from further damage due to its anti-bacterial properties! The severity of your eczema will help you decide if VCO is sufficient or you need to supplement with internal intake too or with medicines. I’m using it for treating eczema so that is what I can comment about.

    To put it in one line, An oil that is fantastic and useful. Added to this is a friendly concerned and knowledgeable MeritVCO supplier like Excel Combines!

    Reply
  43. catherinalucy

    I think coconut oil is best to treat this treatment rather than petroleum jelly.

    Reply
  44. khan

    iam using coconut oil but its not working

    Reply
  45. SUNDAS

    i m suffering from psorisis.i have a red patches on my eye , ear, elbow, nose…plz help me. i m so worried abot this disease…

    Reply
  46. DEBBIE

    IT’S GOING AWAY !!! I’ve had it since the 10th grade and I’m 57. Of course the sun and salt water work in the summer, but the winter as soon as the humidity goes away I start breaking out. I started taking coconut oil capsules, probiotics, and high potency stress vitamins with a 1000 mgs of vitamin c. I had some on my legs that were 6 inches or more, they started healing from the inside out and and now there are just the rings around that are starting to disappear. My friend had her whole scalp covered and told me about olive leaf extract and fish oil, so I started taking that also. Hers totally went away! I don’t know which of these is working or just the combo, but something is! I’m also using organic shea butter lotion. I switch off between out of africa and greenscape. They are both made in south africa, I found them at k-mart, they smell kind of strange, but I don’t crack and bleed. I got my vitamins from swanson on line they will also send you a catalog. I used the certified organic coconut capsules, 15 strain probiotics, super stress b complex with vitamin c and the lemon flavored fish oil. I am sooo looking forward to getting out of hot clothes this summer! Can’t say that it will work for you but its the best thing I have found and I’ve did the steroids and creams . they left dark marks on my skin, now the skin is coming out smooth and baby soft. I am thrilled!

    Reply
  47. Navin

    I get Temporarily relief for 8-hours after applying MUSTARD OIL. For some reason only DABAR (company) mustard gives me relief, if I use other brands then it doesn’t helps. I buy this Dabar-Mustard oil from INDIAN Groceries Stores for .00 which last for 2 months but it saves my day.

    http://www.amazon.com/Dabur-Mustard-Oil-16-9Oz/dp/B003K2NH4Q

    I read somewhere that I have to apply this for 1-year to get permanent relief.

    Also now I am starting with NEEM tablets.

    Reply
  48. Elizabeth Barnhill

    I have found that omitting sugar from your diet is highly effective against psoriasis. Any other treatment is enhanced by omitting sugar. Try it for a month and watch the difference.

    Reply
  49. Brit

    My psoriasis started in my scalp when I was a young teen. As I grew older and stresses grew, my psoriasis began to as well. It now covers 90% of my scalp, 80% of my legs and is also on my ears, stomach, back, and arms. I’ve read everything comment on this page and I am going to try bathing with the baking soda and apple cigar vinegar (since I read on another page that those make great shampooing products) and I’m also gonna try the coconut oil and witch hazel. May even try the oregano oil and flaxseed and D3. I will do my best to remember to come back with results. 🙂 and also, just Wanted to add to the “you are not alone” trend. I’m 23 (24 on 2/16/13) and I’ve been suffering with it for a while. It gradually increased and is now massively horrible! It Burns and itches and bleeds like crazy! Cannot even dream of shaving (though Nair tends to work and also will bring the patches down for a bit, but it Burns pretty badly)… anyways, good luck everyone. And may we find a cure for this extremely disturbing disease…

    Reply
  50. Tommy

    i have only just come down psoriasis and am finding it hard to cope. i went to the doctors who just gave me some stroid cream but as my psoriasis is in a rather persinol place and steroid creams can thin the skin so i never picked up the pesription. now i have read about coconut oil and banana oil both being very good. i just want to know if anyone has tryed them both or even together and how it has been. any help would be good as im starting to freak out about it. also its nice to know im not alone 🙂 so thank you all

    Reply