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Alternative approaches to psoriasis treatment Topical products The following natural treatments have either been studied, proven or mentioned in conjunction with psoriasis in the medical community or have been brought to our attention by a significant number of Psoriasis Foundation Members. Some are common herbal treatments historically used for skin diseases. The use of others is supported by studies. Aloe Aloe is a member of the lily family and is a common houseplant. Although there are approximately 500 species of aloe, the best known is aloe vera. Aloe vera looks like a cactus but has soft leaves. The fluid contained in the leaves has been used for centuries for such skin problems as burns and minor wounds to advance wound healing. Today, aloe gel is used frequently as an ingredient in cosmetics, creams, ointments and suntan lotions. A controlled, double-blind study published in 1996 in Tropical Medicine and International Health found that aloe vera was very effective in the treatment of psoriasis. By the end of the 16-week study, the cream with aloe vera extract caused a significant clearing of psoriasis in 25 of 30 patients, compared to 2 out of 30 with the placebo. Apple cider vinegar Many ancient cultures used different types of vinegar (derived from dates, grapes, figs, etc.) for medicinal purposes. Apple cider vinegar has been used throughout the years as a disinfectant or soothing agent. It is often used today to soothe sunburned skin. The Psoriasis Foundation hears from people who apply apple cider vinegar to their skin as a treatment for psoriasis. People add it to the bath, mix it with a moisturizer, soak fingernails and toenails in it, and apply it directly to the skin with cotton balls or pads. Apple cider vinegar can be purchased at the grocery store. The acid content of store-bought apple cider vinegar is around 5 percent. Capsaicin Capsaicin, a natural ingredient found in cayenne peppers, was shown in some studies to work on redness, scaling and itching. Researchers speculate that capsaicin interrupts the action of substance P, which affects how the brain recognizes pain and itch sensations. Many over-the-counter topical pain-relief products for arthritis contain capsaicin. In two separate studies, 0.025% capsaicin cream used topically was effective in decreasing scaling and redness. The main side effect was a short-lived burning sensation. Several studies indicate that topical capsaicin products can also help reduce joint pain associated with psoriatic arthritis. Capsaicin can cause a severe burning sensation if accidentally placed in the eyes, nasal passages or mucous membranes. Capsaicin may be found in lotions, creams, therapeutic patches and ointments. Emu oil Emu oil can be found in cosmetic products touted for their protective and softening effects on the skin. The exact mechanism by which emu oil exerts these effects is not known. Emu oil can be difficult to obtain and may be relatively expensive. Evening primrose oil Many studies have evaluated topical creams and lotions containing evening primrose oil in eczema treatment. All report reduction of the primary symptoms of eczema and the overall severity of the skin disorder. No side effects have been reported with evening primrose oil, and there have been no complaints concerning its safety for topical use. Evening primrose oil can also be taken orally as a dietary supplement. For more information, see diet. Oats Many products, available at most drugstores, contain oat extract or oat derivatives. Oat extracts have been used for centuries as soothing topical agents. Oat plant derivatives have been used to manage dry, itchy skin conditions. Many bath products include colloidal oatmeal as the active ingredient. You can also make your own oatmeal bath preparation. A Foundation Member provided the following sample preparation: one cup oats, one quarter cup dried milk and two tablespoons apricot kernel oil. Pulverize the oats and dry milk in a food processor or blender. Gradually mix in the oil. Place all in a cotton bag, sock or handkerchief (to prevent a mess) and put in the tub while filling. To release the preparation from the bag, squeeze while soaking in the bath. Tea tree oil A species of tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) produces tea tree oil. This tea tree is native to Australia, and its oil was first used in surgery and dentistry in the 1920s. It was also used to treat skin injuries during World War II, mainly for its antimicrobial effects. It is known for its antibacterial and antiseptic properties. Tea tree oil has traditionally been used for colds, headaches, toothaches, sore muscles, rheumatism and skin disorders. It has been shown not to irritate sensitive skin when applied to cuts, stings, acne and burns. Today, tea tree oil is the active ingredient in a variety of creams, lotions, soaps and shampoos. Some Foundation Members report success with the use of tea tree oil, particularly for scalp psoriasis. Little is really known about what strength of tea tree oil is safe and effective. The best rule of thumb is if it irritates the skin, discontinue use. Tea tree oil is toxic if ingested and should only be used topically. Cases of contact allergy have been reported. |