Psoriasis Treatment through Essential Oils: Insights and Advantages
Psoriasis, an autoimmune skin condition that causes accelerated skin cell regeneration, affects millions worldwide. While there are various treatments available, the role of essential oils in managing psoriasis symptoms remains a topic of ongoing research.
Emollients are a common recommendation for anyone with psoriasis, as they can help soothe and moisturise the skin. These products are readily available without prescription. However, when it comes to essential oils, the evidence is less definitive.
Tea tree oil, chamomile, and bergamot oil are among the essential oils often used to manage psoriasis. Yet, current scientific evidence on the use of essential oils specifically for psoriasis symptom management is limited and not robustly established. While some essential oils have been investigated for their dermatoprotective and antifungal properties, direct clinical evidence supporting their effectiveness in psoriasis remains sparse.
For instance, essential oils such as Clinopodium nepeta and Thymus vulgaris have demonstrated dermatoprotective and antifungal activities in experimental settings. However, these studies focus more on skin protection and fungal infections rather than directly on psoriasis symptoms.
Other natural compounds, like curcumin (from turmeric) and certain herbal extracts, have shown anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antioxidant properties relevant to psoriasis pathophysiology. Curcumin, in particular, has evidence from animal and some clinical studies supporting its potential to alleviate psoriasis signs, though it is typically studied as a supplement or topical formulation rather than as an essential oil.
Other supplements like omega-3 fatty acids and certain vitamins (e.g., vitamin E) have been researched for their role in inflammation reduction and antioxidant support in psoriasis, but these are distinct from essential oils and lack strong direct evidence as standalone psoriasis treatments.
It's important to note that tanning beds are not recommended for psoriasis treatment, as excessive exposure to UV light can exacerbate symptoms.
For anyone with a long-term skin rash, seeking a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and medical management is crucial. A skin specialist can diagnose psoriasis based on a person's appearance and clinical history alone.
In addition to essential oils, other natural remedies for psoriasis include capsaicin, aloe vera, evening primrose oil, fish oil supplements, Oregon grape, and turmeric. However, these remedies should be used alongside clinically approved treatments.
Phototherapy for psoriasis can involve increased exposure to sunlight or controlled artificial exposure to UV light (UVB). Biopsies may be performed to separate psoriasis from other skin conditions.
Dermatologists and rheumatologists are involved in the management of psoriasis, and they can help patients navigate the various treatment options, including prescription medications such as methotrexate, retinoids, cyclosporine, biologics, tar-based preparations, dithranol, salicylic acid, and vitamin A.
In summary, while some essential oils possess skin-protective properties, there is currently no strong scientific evidence specifically supporting the use of essential oils to manage psoriasis symptoms. Most promising natural therapies with better evidence involve compounds like curcumin and omega-3 fatty acids rather than essential oils per se. For psoriasis management, clinically validated treatments remain the standard, and patients should discuss the use of any complementary therapies with their healthcare provider.
- Emollients, commonly recommended for treatmentseekers with psoriasis, aim to soothe and moisturize the oily skin, though essential oils, like tea tree oil, chamomile, and bergamot, have less definitive evidence supporting their use in psoriasis symptom management.
- Some essential oils, such as Clinopodium nepeta and Thymus vulgaris, demonstrate dermatoprotective and antifungal activities, but studies focus more on skin protection and fungal infections, not specifically on psoriasis symptoms.
- Natural compounds like curcumin from turmeric and certain herbal extracts exhibit anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antioxidant properties relevant to psoriasis pathophysiology and have shown potential to alleviate psoriasis signs, but research is primarily on supplements or topical formulations, not essential oils.
- Other supplements including omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, and capsaicin have been researched for their role in reducing inflammation and supporting antioxidants in psoriasis, distinct from essential oils and lacking strong direct evidence as standalone psoriasis treatments.
- Medical-conditions like chronic diseases such as psoriasis necessitate consultations with doctors, and skin specialists can diagnose psoriasis based on a person's appearance and clinical history before advising on appropriate treatments, including prescription medications, phototherapy, and health-and-wellness remedies, while emphasizing the importance of discussing any complementary therapies with healthcare providers.
