Chronic, recurrent, and often difficult to manage with conventional treatment, psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder in which your body’s immune system attacks the skin, causing an increase in the production of skin layers. Triggers for someone predisposed to psoriasis include hormonal changes, emotional stress, recurrent skin irritations, surgery, cuts, medications, poor diet, poor digestive function, other autoimmune disorders, and alcohol consumption.

What is Psoriasis?

Toxicity in the body, especially the liver, can play a significant role in aggravating a flare-up.

Psoriasis is characterized by patches of thick, silvery scales surrounded by a red border. Often these patches can be raised up like a thick scab. Scratching the scales produces pinpoint bleeding. It is not itchy and does not cause scarring. Typical locations are on the elbows, knees, scalp and lower back, although any area can be affected. Psoriasis near the nails causes ridges and pitting.

What Are Psoriasis Treatment & Support Options?

Conventional Methods

Conventional treatment of psoriasis involves using creams and ointments to remove the scales. Corticosteroid creams decrease the multiplication of skin cells but cause skin thinning, immune suppression, and decreased bone density. In severe cases, strong medications like methotrexate, acitretin and etretinate are used. Some of these medications have lots of side effects. None of these treatments will prevent psoriasis recurrence.

Natural Methods For Psoriasis Relief

Treating psoriasis nutritionally can involve three different approaches; a combination of all four usually works best: 

  • Reducing the autoimmune reaction
  • Improving the overall health of the skin
  • Detoxification

Reduce The Autoimmune Reaction

Reducing the autoimmune response involved in psoriasis can be challenging. However, certain supplements may support immune balance. Research shows plant sterols and sterolins help regulate immune activity and support overactive immune cells. Moducare is a well-known option, with other sterol and sterolin products also available. Evening primrose oil may also support immune function. Some people combine these supplements as part of a psoriasis support plan.

Strengthen Skin Health

Skin health depends on many factors, especially essential fatty acids. These fats support skin moisture and repair. Combine borage or evening primrose oil with flax and fish oil for omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 balance. People with psoriasis may use more essential fats than usual. Silica, vitamin A, and vitamin D may also support healthy skin function.

Detoxification

Detoxifying the blood and liver may help reduce psoriasis flare severity and duration. Toxin buildup increases immune stress in autoimmune conditions like psoriasis. Some people use red clover, burdock, and dandelion to support blood cleansing. Milk thistle may support liver function and has been studied in psoriasis cases. Glutamine supports intestinal lining health and may help maintain gut barrier integrity.

Dietary Tips For Psoriasis Support

Dietary changes can support psoriasis management. High-fiber foods and water support detoxification when elimination systems become overburdened. Avoid foods that trigger sensitivities, including sugar, dairy, alcohol, caffeine, chocolate, fried foods, and processed foods. Some people also avoid strawberries, peanuts, nuts, citrus products, and red meat due to potential inflammatory responses. Choose plant proteins like tofu, beans, potatoes, and nuts. Include flaxseed, fish oil, and fatty deep-sea fish for essential fatty acids. Eat raw fruits and vegetables, especially yellow root vegetables. Liquid whey may support skin balance if you tolerate dairy.

Topical Applications For Psoriasis Treatment & Relief

To fight psoriasis topically, avoid chlorinated tap water for drinking and bathing, perfumes, and colourings in laundry and personal hygiene products. Instead, opt for natural soaps containing tar to wash your body, face and hair. If psoriasis is on the scalp, always blow-dry your hair. Moderate sunbathing often decreases psoriasis outbreaks, as does applying a seawater compress, liquid whey, comfrey, lavender or stinging nettle to affected areas. Salicylic Acid is also known to soften and removes psoriasis scales. Lastly, avoid stress and ensure regular sleep patterns.