7 essential oils for psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that can cause the skin to become red, bumpy, itchy, and have a burning sensation. You can control the condition by using creams and ointments recommended by your doctor. Exposure to ultraviolet light may also be part of your treatment plan. If you want to add more products to your skin care routine, include essential oils. You can get relief by using essential oils for psoriasis. Oils such as tea tree oil, lavender and chamomile can help relieve symptoms when applied to the skin.

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a non-contagious disease chronic autoimmune skin disease where skin cells multiply rapidly and cause cells to accumulate on the surface. “This results in thick, scaly patches that may itch, crack, or bleed,” says the esthetician and cosmetologist. Dr. Karuna Malhotra. It can last a long time with periods of remissions and exacerbations. According to a 2016 study, approximately 100 million people worldwide suffer from this painful condition. World Health Organization psoriasis report.

According to the US, there are different types of psoriasis, the most common of which is plaque psoriasis. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. It appears as raised red patches on the skin covered with silvery-white scales.

Common symptoms of psoriasis include:

• Red patches of skin covered with silvery-white scales.
• Itching, burning, or soreness in affected areas such as the scalp, elbows, knees, lower back, and palms.
• Cracked and dry skin that may even bleed.
• Thickened or pitted nails (with nail psoriasis).
• Swollen joints (psoriatic arthritis)

Essential Oils for Psoriasis: Here’s How They Can Help

“Essential oils contain anti-inflammatory, moisturizing and soothing properties that help relieve psoriasis symptoms,” says the expert. Including essential oils for psoriasis may help:

• Reduce redness and swelling associated with lesions.
• Soothe itching and discomfort.
• Promotes healing of cracked or dry skin.
• Relax your mind, which will help deal with stress (a known trigger).

“We need to remember that essential oils cannot cure psoriasis, but they can complement the treatment recommended by doctors,” says the expert. Corticosteroids are usually recommended to reduce inflammation and itching. “Vitamin D analogues (such as calcipotriol) can help slow skin cell production, and coal tar and salicylic acid can help remove flakes and soften the skin. Exposure to ultraviolet B can slow down the growth of skin cells, says the expert.

7 Essential Oils to Combat Psoriasis Symptoms

Using these oils for psoriasis can help you manage the symptoms of this skin condition:

1. Tea tree oil.

The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of tea tree oil can reduce irritation and prevent infections on open lesions. Terpinen-4-ol, which is the main component of tea tree oil, has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. According to a study published in The New York Times Magazine, terpinen-4-ol can be used as a treatment for psoriasis. Pharmacology and physiology magazine in 2012.

2. Lavender oil

Lavender, known for its soothing properties, can reduce redness, swelling and itching. “It can also promote relaxation and help manage stressreducing flare-ups,” says Dr. Malhotra. In a 2020 study published in the journal Journal of EthnopharmacologyTopical application of lavender oil has shown nearly 74 percent improvement in people with psoriasis.

3. Bergamot oil.

It can act as an anti-inflammatory and help reduce redness and discomfort. Its antibacterial properties can protect chapped skin from infections. In a 2019 study published in the journal Food Science and Nutrition In the journal, researchers found that using bergamot essential oil can reduce psoriatic plaques and increase collagen content in the skin.

4. Eucalyptus oil

Eucalyptus oil has a cooling effect on the skin. This may help relieve the itching and discomfort associated with this condition. It is important to keep your skin hydrated as cracked and dry skin is a common symptom. “Using this essential oil can also help moisturize dry areas and promote faster healing,” says Dr. Malhotra.

5. Chamomile oil

It has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe irritated skin. This may be helpful in reducing itching and cracking of the skin. In a study published in the journal Pharmaceuticals journal in 2023, it was found that topical application of chamomile is equivalent to the use of hydrocortisone, which is used to treat psoriasis. Research has shown that chamomile oil can be safely used to treat psoriasis.

6. Frankincense oil

This oil can promote skin regeneration and help reduce scarring from damage. It may also support overall skin health and reduce inflammation. In a 2022 study published in the journal Research Journal of PharmacognosySignificant relief of psoriasis symptoms was noted in participants who used a cream containing frankincense, pumpkin oils and licorice aqueous extract.

7. Peppermint oil

Peppermint oil has a cooling property that can relieve itching and irritation. “It may also relieve joint pain associated with psoriatic arthritis, a type of inflammatory arthritis that sometimes affects people with psoriasis,” says the expert.

How to use essential oils for psoriasis?

While this can be an effective way to calm symptoms, you should know how to use essential oils for psoriasis:

• Dilution: Essential oils are highly concentrated and should always be diluted in transport oil such as coconut, almond or jojoba oil. A 2 to 3 percent dilution (about 10 to 15 drops per ounce of carrier oil) is sufficient.
• Local application: Massage the diluted oil directly onto the affected area 2-3 times a day, but avoid applying it to open wounds.
• Bath: Add about 10 drops of essential oil (diluted with a carrier oil) to a warm bath and soak for 20 minutes to soothe and moisturize your skin.
• Scalp treatment: Mix essential oil with carrier oil, massage into scalp and leave on for 30 minutes before rinsing.

Who should not use essential oils for psoriasis?

Using essential oils for psoriasis is considered safe, but here are a few things you need to keep in mind to protect yourself:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Some essential oils may affect hormone levels.
• People with allergies or sensitive skin: Essential oils may cause irritation, so do a patch test first.
• Persons with chronic respiratory diseases: The strong aroma of such oils may cause breathing problems.
• Patients taking medications: Some oils may interact with medications (eg lavender oil with sedatives). Consult a physician before using essential oils to relieve symptoms.

You can combine essential oils with other treatments and adopt a healthy lifestyle to better manage your psoriasis symptoms. However, consult your doctor before using essential oils for psoriasis.