Effective Natural Remedies for Psoriasis Relief

Vitamin D, Fish Oil

Posted by Sunsong (Mission, Canada) on 06/09/2009
★★★★★

I would like to share with you my cure for Psoriasis. I had never had psoriasis until a few years ago when it broke out on the back of my scalp and quite severely on my left hand area inside the thumb and the palm of the hand. Anyone who has had psoriasis knows this is an extremely bad place to havce it!! I am also left handed so it became difficult to even write with a pen or do basic tasks.

I believe in natural medicines and it became an almost two year long journey to find the natural cure (for myself) and I'm hoping and praying it will work for others as well. I tried different natural topical treatments to no avail. And in a moment of clarity, realized that skin eruptions happen because of an imbalance 'within' the body.

First of all, i must stress that i was diligent about having my Vitamin D levels tested by my physician. I followed Dr. Mercolas advice on getting the correct vitamin D test and getting myself within the optimum range for good health. This took a few months. During that time i used a homemade cream with vitamin D drops on my hand. This helped, but did not cure the problem.

What truly made the difference was when i added in a very high quality omega 3 fish oil supplement. I vary between the capsules and the liquid high quality grade. Also, I use the recommended dose of 2 capsules daily or 1 tsp. liquid daily. If i take more than the recommended dose i feel imbalanced. Needless to say, one has to experiment with the correct dose as each person is unique biochemically.

The improvement in the psoriasis was startling. Within two months it was 98% gone, and it looks like it is never coming back. Since psorisis is a skin inflammation, and Vit D and omega fish oils are powerful anti-inflammatories, one can see why the remedy worked. I had used fish oils (omegas 3's) in the past, but had lapsed in taking them (stressful time in my life). I can see now how very important these two simple things are.

Also, I had a cat with a very serious allergy and skin problem. I started putting the Vit D drops (very tiny amounts) and fish oil in his food, and he cleared up almost completely. His condition was so serious that he would lose his hair and have bleeding crusty patches all over his body. Also, his nose would plug up so much he couldn't breathe. Now he is all clear and his dandruff is gone, he can breathe, and his fur feels like absolute SILK. All this with no pharma medicines.

So i gave it to my 3 elderly dogs....two german shepherds and a wolf hound. Huge improvement in their arthritis symptoms! Also, their fur and skin feel like absolute SILK.

Regarding the psoriasis and skin: i must mention that i use all natural soaps, dish soap and skin lotions. I also have a chemical free home (clean with baking soda, vinegar, and essential oils) Also, i wash my animals in a solution of borax and rinse them in clear water thoroughly. No chemical soaps or junk on their bodies!

I recently started adding a little Apple Cider Vinegar (the good organic kind with the mother in it) to my pets food. I only use tiny amounts, but they all seem to like it. I am trying this to see if it helps repel fleas, as I heard from elsewhere on Earth Clinic that his helps. We don't have a flea problem at all, but i'm hoping the ACV will keep it that way. (I also put garlic in their bone broth that they get).

I must mention again: the ACV i've been taking for a week dropped my blood pressure. I don't know if it has helped me lose weight because i don't use a scale. But i feel less bloated and more mentally perky. As with all things, i believe in consistency and in not overdoing. I only use the Earth Clinic recommendation of 2 tsp in 16 oz. water drank throughout the day. On some days i have ane extra glass because my body/mind is asking for it. I can hardly wait to see my doctor and give her the news that i lowered my blood pressure with such a simple thing.

May mother earth bless everyone who contributes their cures to this site!

EC: Thank you for your feedback! Cross-posted to all applicable pages...

Dietary Changes

Posted by Heather (New York, Ny) on 01/07/2010

To Kay and Anna: Thank you for such a detailed post. After years of suffering with moderate psoriasis, I finally became serious about a more disciplined diet and lifestyle. Almost all of the research that I have done on my own supports exactly what you have stated. I just wanted to add a few things:

Pork - I gave this up a year ago not ONLY because of the toxins, but because of worms and parasites that live in the flesh of the swine.

Raw Fish - same deal as above. While some obscure diets advocate raw fish/raw meats this seems antithetical to healing for someone with a compromised immune system.

Wheat Gluten - Not sure exactly what the connection is, but I believe it is a contributor to irritable bowel, and perhaps encourages candida growth as well.

Nightshade Vegetables - Potatoes, tomatoes, eggplant and peppers should be avoided. I have also read some articles recommending avoidance of corn.

Nuts - I was advised by a homeopath who treats me regularly that all nuts are acceptable EXCEPT for peanuts and cashews, because of the natural mold that develops inside their shells.

To Edie: STAY ENCOURAGED! You will find that when you are eating more simply and cleanly, you will feel healthier (I've actually gained a bit of healthy weight), look radiant and have a ton more energy. This is because your body is digesting more efficiently, and absorbing and utilizing nutrients more effectively than before. Therefore, do not worry about what you are not eating. Rather, concentrate on establishing good habits that are easy for you to follow. You will soon start to crave healthier foods.

My typical daily diet consists of:

BREAKFAST
Fresh Fruit: 3 whole bananas OR 3 organic apples OR 1 whole mango (skin-on), cubed.

Non-wheat cereal: Quinoa, oats, amaranth, tapioca with poached fruit and a little honey and cinammon.

LUNCH
Vegetable/Legume Soup: Lentil, Carrot, Split Pea (meatless) Pumpkin. Veggies for vitamins/antioxidants, legumes for protein. Alternate!

Vegetable Omelette: I like Spinach and Goat Cheese. I have not yet noticed a reaction with me for eggs... may have to try an elimination and see whether it helps

DINNER

HUGE Salad: Mixed greens with Grilled Chicken or Salmon, some goat cheese (soft), carmelized onion and avocado.

Organic Baby Arugula with grated goat cheese (hard), hemp seeds or slivered almonds, and vinagrette. I love a bottled miso vinagrette, but may eventually try a homemade one with apple cider vinegar.

Any combination of protein/vegetable or starch/vegetable from the following (try not to combine protein and starch as this causes poor digestion). Grill, steam, bake or saute: lean chicken, fish, legumes (peas, beans), veggies (bright colored, e.g. carrots, beets; and green leafy ones e.g., broccoli, spinach, kale, collards are best), starches (brown rice, sweet potatoes, yams, pumpkin) prepared veggie burgers, prepared veggie sushi (macro/organic only).

SNACKS (2-3 per day):
Brown rice cakes, nuts, fresh fruit, dried fruit (sulfite-free only), granola bars, wheat-free crackers, nut butters, organic fruit butters.

DRINK (between meals):
Spring water (2 litres per day), fresh fruit/vegetable juices, herbal teas, health tonics.

There is such a variety to be had. Look for ways to substitute acceptable ingredients for unacceptable ones in recipes that you encounter. Focus on creativity, and think positively about your healing!I've been on a strict elimination diet for 2 months now, and I honestly do not crave any of the bad stuff I was eating before. I think you will adjust quite easily!

Dietary Changes

Posted by Kellady (Upstate, Sc) on 05/17/2010

To Edie from Lafayette, AL: You have been sadly misinformed regarding your health conditions. I am responding, because I am worried for you, and feel compelled to educate you and possibly save your life. My daughter has severe psoriatic arthritis (which is NOT the same thing as rheumatoid arthritis, but is very similar). The difference is that you cannot have psoriatic arthritis without psoriasis, and there is a blood test to determine if one has the rheumatoid factor. If it is negative, it is not RA. Secondly, although psoriasis/psoriatic arthritis are autoimmune conditions, Hepatitis C is NOT. I don't know where you got your information, but Hep C is a bloodborne pathogenic virus. It is an infectious disease that will cause liver cirrhosis, liver cancer, and/or liver failure. It IS curable, unlike autoimmune illnesses. I am living proof of this, as I have beat Hep C. You really need to find an Infectious Disease Specialist or Gastroenterologist to manage your hepatitis, and get you treatment before it is too late. Your psoriatic arthritis may be manageable with biologics, such as Humira or Enbrel, with the help of a Rheumatologist. Those meds have helped several people that I know, but unfortunately stopped working for my daughter after only 9 months...hence why I am here. Hope this helps, and that you get the help that you need to eradicate that wicked virus. Don't try to tackle that one homeopathically...trust me.The PsA won't kill you, but the Hep can. Good luck!

Oil Pulling

Posted by Shel (Eugene, Oregon) on 03/29/2009
★★★★★

I have had psoriasis for less than a year, quite severe in my ears and around my eyes, nose and mouth. I started oil pulling and it began to clear up the first day. By the second day there was still some flaking in my ears but no painful cracks or itching. This is a fabulous website and I will be trying a lot more of the suggestions I've seen here.

EC: Thanks for the great feedback, Shel. Do you mind telling us what kind of oil you were using?

White Vinegar

Posted by Jason (KS) on 03/06/2009
★★★★★

After reading about using vinegar as a conditioner after you shampoo I tried some plain white vinegar and my psoriasis on my scalp went away in one week. I've tried many things and I've had the problem for years, but now I just rinse with vinegar and no more flakes or dry scalp. If only I had known this simple remedy 10 years ago...

Jojoba Oil

Posted by Judy (Canberra, ACT Australia) on 11/17/2008
★★★★★

I have psoriasis behind my ears and at times it weeps and is so painful. Having had it for at least 10 years I tried cortisone in the early days but my inner instinct turned me off it very quickly. I've tried all sorts of so-called remedies since then. On this site recently I read somewhere about Jojoba oil and have used it with great success on my psoriasis. It is so soothing and clears it up within a couple of days. If I miss a day, however, it returns, but not as bad as previously. Although the Jojoba oil isn't a permanent cure-all it's the best I've used. The extra virgin or virgin is the best and you can buy it from any health store. Another bonus: it's absolutely beautiful on your face and body, is inexpensive and goes a long way as well.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Posted by Brendan (Adelaide, South Australia) on 11/23/2010

I have had a similar experience. My face psoriasis or sebhoraic dermatitis, whatever it is, started to get better when I first started applying Apple Cider Vinegar and I got all excited but then I started to notice that it was spreading to other areas on my face. After a bit over a week I stopped using it as I thought I would be covered in it if I didn't. Now that I've stopped it's even worse than before. Im near breaking point, I don't know what to try, it seems ive tried everything. My dermatologist is trying to shove me on elidel but I dont believe that will help long term as everything else he's given me made my psoriasis worse. Also ive heard bad things about elidel. If someone has any ideas, please help me. I would give anything to have my life back.

Eliminate Beef and Pork

Posted by Shannon (Richmond, VA) on 10/08/2008
★★★★★

I am 26 years old, and have suffered with psoriasis since my parents divorced when I was 13. I have tried numerous topical therapies, cortisone injections and light therapy, and nothing has helped. I recently eliminated beef and pork from my diet (fatty, hard to digest meats) and have had amazing results. Within 3 weeks my psoriasis went from covering 70% of my body to about 30%. I have since had to use a steroid spray to keep my skin clear, but the spray didn't work the first two times I tried it. I tried eliminating wheat and gluten but didn't have much luck, although I do know people that has worked for. Besides red meat isn't good for you anyway!

Dietary and Herbal Suggestions

Posted by Yigal (North Israel) on 09/21/2008
★★★★★

Psoriasis: avoiding sugar really helped my friend. Evening primrose oil drops is also very good. Neem cream externally. Cleaning the blood and liver is V important as well.

Zinc

Posted by Stephanie (Chicago, IL) on 09/14/2008

From: http://www.doctoryourself.com/psoriasis.html

ZINC SUPPLEMENTATION
Your skin contains one fifth of your body's zinc supply. Rats and mice that are deficient in zinc develop a skin condition called keratogenesis that is very similar to human psoriasis (Hoffer and Walker, Orthomolecular Nutrition, p 156-157). Zinc deficiency in humans is the rule, not the exception. The US RDA for zinc is only 15 milligrams a day, and yet the average American takes in even less than that. (Williams, Nutrition and Diet Therapy, 7th ed., page 253) In spite of this, it is most uncommon to find either dietitians or doctors ever recommending a supplement of this mineral.

Research has shown that supplements of zinc are safe up to about 500 mg. daily. A more sensible daily dose of 50 mg to perhaps may be maintained for as long as is desired. A good multiple vitamin along with this will provide some balancing copper, as will (believe it or not) the copper water pipes in your home.

The "amino acid chelated" form of zinc ('chelated zinc') is better tolerated and better absorbed than zinc sulfate or other inorganic forms of the mineral.

Sulfer 8 and Zoriasis

Posted by Lynne (Dayton, Ohio) on 09/11/2008
★★★★★

I have been suffering with psoriasis for twenty years. I was mainly affected on my scalp and had constant flaking. Several years ago, I began to get small patches on my body. One day a lady noticed the flakes on my shoulder and recommended a product called Sulfer 8. This is usually found in the African American hair care section in major supermarkets. I found that it did work pretty well but when I mixed a product called Zoriasis in with it, the results were amazing. The small spots disappeared in several months and the redness and flaking on my scalp has diminished greatly! I am so happy. My scalp doesn't itch like it used to. The Sulpher 8 does have a menthol smell but it feels really good. The Zoriasis product can be found online. I just mix about one teaspoon of Zoriasis into the four ounce jar of Sulpher 8 and this will last for months. I just had to share this and I hope it brings psoriasis sufferers the same relief it gives me! Good luck!

Apple Cider Vinegar

Posted by Joyce (Joelton, Tn) on 07/28/2008 490 posts

To Sela from Huntsville: Hi Sela, If you are sure your problem is psoriasis, you might try Adele Davis's (a nutritionist) theory that psoriasis is caused by faulty fat metabolism. Her recommendation was 6 tablespoons of lecithin granules per day. My suggestion would be to stir 3 tbsps. in small glass of buttermilk twice a day and drink it. Tastes a lot like cornbread in buttermilk, which I happen to like. I have checked her out on several things and found that she was right, but have never had psoriasis, so can't vouch for this, but I'd certainly give it a try before trying a lot of other things. I recall one of my patients who used Siroil ointment on his. He was terminal renal disease because the mercury in the Siroil had destroyed his kidneys.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Posted by Nicky B. (Martinez, California) on 08/06/2009

Was glad to read your suggestion about ACV - I will give that a try! But would like to point out that you should never use petroleum jelly; your skin won't breathe. I have had psoriasis since age 13; I'm 49, now. Have tried many meds offered by doctors but the body tends to build a resistance after it becomes accustomed to its effect. Moisturizers are very helpful but try to stay away from scented products lotions, hair products and laundry detergents. An inexps. brand (St.I.) has a fragrance-free body lotion which I have used for years. Instead of using petroleum jelly, try a fragrance-free (Eu) brand moisturizing oitment. Its best to apply moisturizers immediately after a bath or shower as your pores are open and better absorb the moisture. Drink LOTS of water and take lots of antioxidants (vitmin C, etc.). To your health!

Apple Cider Vinegar, Enzymes

Posted by Leesa (Tampa, Fl) on 09/08/2010

Is your psoriasis still in remission? Did you stop using the ACV after you cleared or continue your daily dosage in order to maintain your clearing?

Apple Cider Vinegar, Enzymes

Posted by Rose (West New York, Nj, Usa) on 08/26/2012

Kathy, there are so many different brands of systemic enzymes on the market. Could you please provide the name of the brand you used and any other information you may have? I have scalp psoriasis, and would very much like to try what worked for you. I've tried everything else, and nothing has worked for me. Thank you.

Apple Cider Vinegar, Enzymes

Posted by Rpsharma (Noida, India) on 06/13/2014

Will Kathy from Macon, Georgia elaborate the name of the Enyzme and other information on psoriasis. it will help us thanks. Rpsharma

Sunshine

Posted by K.A. (New Jersey, USA) on 07/01/2008
★★★★★

Ailment: Psoriasis.
Remedy: Throw away your sunblock and take a walk in the sun!

The insides of my ears have itched like crazy since I was about 16, though I never knew it was psoriasis until almost a decade later. I just recently figured out that that was the age when I started to avoid direct sunlight and also wear sunblock constantly to prevent future wrinkles on my very fair skin--a practice I continued up until this year.

Avoiding the sun and living in an area with a far angle from the sun during winter months causes Vitamin D deficiency, which I am certain I had. Getting more sunlight by exercising outside in the morning has helped tremendously. Vitamin D apparently decreases cell turnover, including in the skin.

Avoiding a pro-inflammatory lifestyle and stress should also help, since autoimmune disorders such as psoriasis are modulated by inflammatory cytokines; in the case of psoriasis, interleukin-17 seems to be the problem.

Sunshine

Posted by Betty (Helllstown, California) on 10/01/2012
★☆☆☆☆

Vitamin D and sunshine does not help my psoriasis, (and I have every type offered along with the arthritis) Also Vitamin D creams was akin to just greasing my body up and that was it.... It does not work on some people..... A shame since I am in Calif!

Honey

Posted by Trina (St. Helens, OR) on 04/26/2008
★★★★★

My mother has psoriasis on her feet - i talked her into using Honey to stop the bad itch. I worked instantly. the itch was gone. She reports that she dont like the sticky tacky feel of the honey but it worx. And she will use it more in the future when in a pinch.

Honey

Posted by Solange (Huntington Beach, Ca) on 01/24/2012

Banana peel rubbed on psoriasis, google it. I am in the process of noticing an improvement from doing it. It's worth a try.

Oregano Leaf

Posted by Cathy (San Antonio, TX) on 11/06/2007
★★★★★

I noticed in your long list of ailments, psoriasis was not mentioned. Please let people know that Oregano Leaf absolutely gets rid of psoriasis in a big way. I have battled psoriasis since I was 10 yrs old (I'm now 48). I had heard that oregano leaf and olive leaf were good for infections so one day, I started taking them both. Within a week my skin was so clear my husband commented. I started wondering what I had done differently. I had taken olive leaf before with no visable result so I started investigating the oregano. There are MANY resources out there on psoriasis and oregano leaf, and also, that psoriasis is mainly caused by a fungus (which oregano goes after). I personally buy OregaMax since other oreganos have not worked for me. People should know about this!! It is wonderful. Three to five capsules a day (divided) should do it. I got my initial results simply taking 1 both am and pm.

Oregano Leaf

Posted by Nc1966 (Chattanooga, Tn, United States) on 05/26/2011
★☆☆☆☆

I tried this several months ago and it did not have any effect on my psoriasis but I have read other reports of this working for people. I believe it really matters what type of p you have and the reasons behind it. Oregano leaf if basically a natural antibiotic and anti- fungal. It is very effective for many things. (If you have hormone balance problems beware and pay attention to your body as it can have some effect on you.)

Apple Cider Vinegar and Baking Soda

Posted by Ryan (Chicago, Illinois) on 10/03/2007
★★★★★

I have had EXCELLENT success with ACV (2tbs) and Baking Soda (1/4 tsp or so) in a glass of water three times per day especially upon waking. I also mix a small thermos with another two doses and sip it during the afternoon. I definitely find it energizing and the psoriasis/eczema (whatever it is -- apples/oranges) I've had on my elbows ever since an extended fast is clearing up PRONTO. I'm very excited. I think I'll be a lifelong devotee. Ted -- you're awesome. I'm also taking a bit of borax occasionally and experimenting with the sodium thiowhateveritis. Best of luck to everyone.

Apple Cider Vinegar and Baking Soda

Posted by Leasyloo (Brisbane, Qld) on 04/13/2012
★★★★★

I have suffered from psoriasis for years but have been able to control it with different types of creams, lotions, antibiotics etc from doctors and skin specialists but lost faith a few years ago & thought their must be an alternative out there and decided to research on the internet. I found aloe vera gel to be wonderful for 4-5 years but psoriasis always needs a change in treatment methods after a while so after having a terrible outbreak on my face (which I have always dreaded) I decided to try a Paw Paw cream (which featured on tv about a month or so ago), its described as liquid gold. I was still wearing makeup during the week so I didnt see a speedy improvement until I stopped wearing makeup and read about apple cider vinegar which I use for my scalp but never thought to mix with baking soda & take internally. After my husband returned from being away all week he thought I was wearing makeup. My face looks fabulous after only 4 drink doses of ACV, using the pawpaw ointment twice daily, and moisturing with a sorbolene cream during the day to keep my face moisturised. Thanks to reading this site I will be able to wear makeup again next week.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Posted by Natla (Woodland Park, New Jersey, USA) on 08/05/2012

Can you update your condition? How many times a week and for how long did you do the bath? Thank you for putting out this info.

Vinegar and Olive Oil

Posted by Tom (Sunnyvale, CA) on 05/09/2007
★★★★★

vinegar and olive oil Ailment: psoriasis

When I was in elementary school, I had psoriasis on my elbows and knees, and all over the side of my face! It got behind my ears so bad I used to dream that my ears were falling off.

None of the doctor's remedies helped. Then my parents found this old home-remedy book from around the 1700s. It had what I call the salad dressing cure.

You soak the affected skin with vinegar for a few minutes, then you cover it with warmed olive oil (make sure it isn't too hot).

It got so I hated vinegar for years because of the smell (I think Apple Cider Vinegar would have been much more bearable), but it worked! The psoriasis went completely away, and I no longer felt like a freak at school.

Every few years I'll get a tiny patch on my knee or elbow. If it bothers me I'll use the treatment and it will go away.

Vinegar and Olive Oil

Posted by Tom (Sunnyvale, CA) on 05/09/2007
★★★★★

vinegar and olive oil Ailment: psoriasis

When I was in elementary school, I had psoriasis on my elbows and knees, and all over the side of my face! It got behind my ears so bad I used to dream that my ears were falling off.

None of the doctor's remedies helped. Then my parents found this old home-remedy book from around the 1700s. It had what I call the salad dressing cure.

You soak the affected skin with vinegar for a few minutes, then you cover it with warmed olive oil (make sure it isn't too hot).

Every few years I'll get a tiny patch on my knee or elbow. If it bothers me I'll use the treatment and it will go away.

Eliminate Wheat

Posted by Amiee (Eastern Passage, NS) on 08/04/2006
★★★★★

I had been wheat-free for 7 months and my gas, acid-reflux and psoriasis went away. When you are on a wheat-free diet, it can cause other problems like constipation if you do not watch your fiber intake. I am now off the wheat-free diet and all has returned. I will be going back on the wheat-free diet ASAP.