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In any discussion on using essential oils for psoriasis, it helps to first understand two things – what causes psoriasis and what research studies suggest about the role of essential oils in managing psoriasis.
I looked into both these aspects in detail and would like to start with them before getting into more detail about using essential oils for psoriasis.
Table of Contents
What Is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition characterized by the rapid buildup of skin cells, leading to thick, red, scaly patches on the skin.
It stems from an autoimmune condition in which the immune system misidentifies your own skin cells as invaders and attacks them. This triggers an inflammation, resulting in the rapid generation of new skin cells.
The excessive skin cells build upon each other and become scaly. The scaly patches may affect different parts of the body but appear most commonly on the elbows, palms, scalp, lower back, knees, and feet.
The rash and scaly patches can take various forms ranging from mild to severe. Common symptoms include dryness, itching, or a burning sensation.
While psoriasis is not infectious, sufferers endure social stigma when they step out into the world with a visible rash.
In addition, they are at risk of suffering associated conditions such as psoriatic arthritis, Crohn’s disease, and lymphomas.
Research On Using Essential Oils For Psoriasis
Several clinical trials on using natural remedies for psoriasis concluded that essential oils are an effective complementary treatment to manage the symptoms.
No study suggested that they could be used as a primary treatment.
What does this mean? It means essential oils can be used to manage some of the symptoms of psoriasis. However, they are not a substitute for professional medical care and should not be used as an alternative to ongoing medical treatment.
Before using essential oils for psoriasis, it helps to empower yourself by learning about clinical trials and their conclusions. That’s what I did and here’s the synopsis of three such trials.
This study aimed to investigate the anti-psoriatic effect of lavender essential oil. The study found that linalool and linalyl acetate, the two major components of Lavender essential oil, were effective against psoriasis like skin inflammation.
Another study – Can Essential Oils Be the Winning Cards against Psoriasis – concluded that essential oils act via different mechanisms to suppress the pathogenesis of psoriasis and minimize the symptoms of this inflammatory disease.
Other interesting studies suggested that some essential oils may indirectly help reduce the symptoms of psoriasis by soothing dry, itchy skin, while others do the same by easing anxiety and promoting better sleep.
These studies sound promising. If you’re looking for natural remedies to soothe psoriasis symptoms, essential oils may help due to their anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, and soothing properties.
They offer a gentle, natural approach to managing flare-ups and promoting skin healing when used correctly.
How Essential Oils May Help Manage Psoriasis Symptoms
Inflammation & Itching Relief
Essential oils are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe the chronic inflammation caused by psoriasis.
Oils such as tea tree and lavender contain compounds that may reduce swelling and redness, providing relief from the persistent itching that often accompanies psoriasis flare-ups.
These oils work by calming the skin and reducing irritation, helping those with psoriasis find some respite from discomfort.
Moisturizing Properties
Psoriasis leads to dry, scaly patches, making moisturizing a critical aspect of managing the condition.
Essential oils like geranium and frankincense help lock in moisture by forming a protective barrier over the skin.
When combined with carrier oils, these essential oils can deeply hydrate and soften rough patches, improving the skin’s texture and preventing cracking or peeling.
Promoting Skin Healing
Some essential oils, such as rosemary and frankincense, may promote skin cell regeneration and healing.
These oils stimulate circulation and encourage the growth of healthy skin cells, aiding in the repair of damaged skin.
By supporting the skin’s natural healing process, essential oils can help minimize the visible effects of psoriasis, reducing the appearance of scales and promoting smoother, healthier skin.
Best Essential Oils for Psoriasis
Tea Tree
Tea tree essential oil works in multiple ways to reduce the symptoms of psoriasis.
Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties make it highly effective in reducing scaling and redness, while also helping to prevent infections that may occur due to cracked skin.
The immune-boosting properties of tea tree work to suppress the auto-immune disorder that causes psoriasis. Its antiseptic properties help soothe the itchy sensation.
When diluted and applied over the affected area, Tea Tree essential oil calms the swelling and inflammation associated with psoriasis. It also helps regenerate healthy new skin cells.
Tea tree essential oil is used in several skin cream recipes specially formulated to soothe psoriasis.
Regular use may promote clearer, healthier skin over time.
Related: 33 Powerful ways to use tea tree essential oil
Lavender
Lavender’s anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties help reduce itchiness and combat secondary infections. Its soothing effects help alleviate inflammation and calm irritated skin, offering much-needed relief from itching.
The relaxing aroma of lavender essential oil may also reduce stress and anxiety, which can be a trigger for psoriasis flare-ups.
What makes lavender one of the best essential oils for psoriasis is that it is good for the skin while also providing the mental health benefits that are so important to alleviate the symptoms of this condition.
Rosemary
With its potent antimicrobial properties, Rosemary essential oil soothes inflammation and promotes skin cell regeneration, aiding in healing and reducing flare-ups.
It also improves circulation, supporting overall skin health and resilience.
Peppermint
The cooling effects of Peppermint essential oil provide instant relief from burning and itching. Its menthol content may also have pain-relieving properties, making it ideal for soothing irritated areas.
Frankincense
The anti-inflammatory properties of frankincense essential oil help soothe inflamed skin, reducing redness and swelling. It also supports skin renewal by encouraging the growth of new, healthy cells.
Geranium
Geranium essential oil is best known for its ability to revitalize body tissue and promote the regeneration of healthy skin cells. It is often used in facial cleansers and toners and is also excellent for treating acne.
Geranium oil hydrates dry, flaky patches and repairs the skin’s protective barrier. Its antioxidant properties also help protect the skin from environmental damage, and its strong anti-inflammatory properties help reduce the swelling and itchiness associated with psoriasis.
How to Use Essential Oils for Psoriasis
Topical Application
Essential oils should always be diluted with a carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba oil, before applying directly to the skin.
This not only prevents irritation but also helps the oils absorb better. A common dilution ratio is 3-5 drops of essential oil per tablespoon of carrier oil.
Bath Soaks
Adding a few drops of essential oils to a warm bath can provide soothing benefits.
This method helps hydrate the skin and calm irritation while allowing the oils to be absorbed gently.
Adding oats to the bath soak can be very soothing.
Diffusion for Stress Relief
Using a diffuser to disperse essential oils into the air can help manage stress, a common trigger for psoriasis flare-ups.
Oils like lavender and frankincense are known for their calming effects. Diffusing these oils creates a peaceful environment and reduces stress-related skin issues.
Related: How to use an essential oil diffuser
Precautions & Risks When Using Essential Oils For Psoriasis
Signs of allergies: Look for signs of allergic reactions, such as redness, itching, swelling, or hives. If you experience any of these symptoms, discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare professional.
Patch testing: Always perform a patch test on a small area of skin before applying essential oils to a larger area. This will help identify any potential allergic reactions.
Avoid direct application: Never apply undiluted essential oils directly to the skin, as it can cause irritation or burns.
Safe dilution ratios: Dilute essential oils in a carrier oil like coconut, jojoba, or olive oil. A general guideline is to use 1-2 drops of essential oil per teaspoon of carrier oil.
Consult a Healthcare Provider: If you have severe psoriasis or are taking any medications, you must consult a healthcare professional before using essential oils. A healthcare provider can offer personalized advice based on your specific condition and medical history.
Use As A Complementary Treatment, Not Primary Treatment: Research indicates that essential oils can be used as a complementary therapy to support conventional psoriasis treatments. However, they should not be considered a substitute for these treatments. It’s essential to follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations.
Be Mindful of Individual Variations: The effectiveness of essential oils can vary from person to person. It’s important to find what works best for your individual case of psoriasis. Experiment with different essential oils and application methods to determine the most effective approach for you.
Patience and consistency: Remember that it may take time to see results. Be patient and consistent in your use of essential oils.
Best All-Natural Creams for Psoriasis
These are the best skin and hair products that are specially formulated to soothe annoying psoriasis symptoms.
Wild Naturals Eczema Psoriasis Cream for Dry, Irritated Skin and Itch Relief – This psoriasis cream penetrates deep into the skin to deliver a powerful boost of nourishment and hydration. Formulated with hydrating and soothing Aloe vera, Wild Naturals Cream works quickly to calm rash, itching, and rash. Over 7,000 users have reviewed this psoriasis cream positively on Amazon.
Clinically Tested Face & Body Cream for Eczema, Dermatitis, and Psoriasis Treatment by Amelie Monnier. Made using a breakthrough formula that seals in moisture and repairs dry skin, this psoriasis cream works efficiently to reduce itching, redness, flaking, and roughness.
Sorion Cream with Coconut Oil, Neem, and Turmeric for Eczema Psoriasis – This Ayurvedic skin cream contains a powerful formula that nourishes and smoothes skin, soothing itchiness and dryness.
Amazing Aloe Vera Psoriasis & Eczema Cream with Manuka Honey – Aloe vera soothes and nourishes the skin while manuka honey balances skin pH levels and soothes the skin.
Best All-Natural Shampoos That Help Reduce Psoriasis
Keeping your scalp clean, moisturized, and dandruff-free is equally important when you have psoriasis. Dandruff flakes that fall onto your skin can exacerbate your psoriasis and cause painful flare-ups.
While these all-natural shampoos will not eliminate psoriasis on their own. However, they will support your other endeavors towards managing psoriasis.
Tea Tree Shampoo and Conditioner Set by Botanic Hearth – This 100% pure tea tree oil clarifying shampoo and conditioner set is my first choice for dry itchy scalp. Both products are sulfate and paraben-free and work well to invigorate, soothe, and deeply nourish your hair and scalp.
Tea Tree Oil Shampoo Sulfate Free by Maples Holistics– This tea tree-based shampoo cleanses and moisturizes the hair, and is an effective scalp exfoliation. All three actions work effectively to reduce dandruff formation. This shampoo for psoriasis has over 17,700 reviews on Amazon
Related Reads:
Best essential oils for immune system support and how they work
Best essential oils for rosacea and how to use them
Disclaimer: This information is not intended to serve as medical advice. Please consult your doctor before using any natural medication or if you experience any unusual symptoms. See Full Disclaimer here.
