10 Best Herbal Creams For Psoriasis
Herbal creams for psoriasis are topical treatments that incorporate natural ingredients such as aloe vera, turmeric, and neem to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated skin.
These creams are often preferred by individuals seeking alternative or complementary therapies to conventional medications. They may help alleviate symptoms like redness, itching, and scaling, though their effectiveness can vary depending on the specific ingredients and the severity of the condition. Many herbal creams are free from harsh chemicals, making them a gentler option for sensitive skin.
However, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before using any herbal treatment to ensure safety and appropriateness for individual health needs.
Table of Contents
1. Aloe barbadensis
Aloe barbadensis, commonly known as aloe vera, is a plant widely used in herbal creams for the treatment of psoriasis due to its anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties.
These creams often contain aloe vera gel, which helps to soothe the skin and reduce the redness and scaling associated with psoriasis. The active compounds in aloe vera, such as polysaccharides and enzymes, may support skin healing and enhance the skin’s natural barrier function. While some studies suggest that aloe vera can alleviate psoriasis symptoms, it is typically used as a complementary therapy rather than a standalone treatment.
Patients should consult with a healthcare provider before using aloe-based creams to ensure they are safe and effective for their specific condition.
2. Urtica dioica
Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties.
Urtica dioica herbal creams are formulated to provide relief from the redness, itching, and irritation associated with psoriasis by leveraging the plant's natural compounds such as histamines and flavonoids. These creams may help reduce the severity of psoriasis symptoms by modulating the immune response and promoting skin healing. However, while some users report positive effects, scientific evidence supporting their efficacy for psoriasis remains limited.
It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using urtica dioica creams, especially if you are on other medications or have sensitive skin.
3. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger, has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it a potential ingredient in herbal creams for psoriasis.
These creams often incorporate ginger extract to help reduce redness, scaling, and itching associated with psoriatic skin lesions. The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, may help modulate the immune response and inhibit the production of inflammatory cytokines. While some studies suggest that topical ginger may offer symptomatic relief, more clinical research is needed to confirm its efficacy and safety for long-term use in psoriasis treatment.
As a complementary therapy, ginger-based creams may be used alongside conventional treatments under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
4. Hypericum perforatum
Hypericum perforatum, commonly known as St. John's wort, is a herbal remedy that has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties.
When formulated into creams, it may offer relief for individuals suffering from psoriasis by reducing redness, scaling, and itching associated with the condition. The active compounds in Hypericum perforatum, such as hypericin and flavonoids, are believed to modulate immune responses and reduce oxidative stress, which are key factors in psoriasis development. While some studies suggest potential benefits, it is important to note that the efficacy and safety of these creams can vary, and they should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
As with any topical treatment, it is advisable to perform a patch test to check for allergic reactions before regular use.
5. Cnicus benedictus
Cnicus benedictus, commonly known as blessed thorn, is a herb that has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its potential skin-healing properties.
Herbal creams containing Cnicus benedictus are sometimes recommended for individuals suffering from psoriasis due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing effects on the skin. These creams may help reduce redness, scaling, and itching associated with psoriasis by promoting skin regeneration and reducing irritation. While scientific evidence supporting its efficacy is limited, some users report positive results from incorporating such creams into their psoriasis management routine.
As with any herbal treatment, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially for those with existing skin conditions or allergies.
6. Taraxacum officinale
Taraxacum officinale, commonly known as dandelion, is often used in herbal creams for psoriasis due to its anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties.
These creams typically contain extracts from the roots and leaves of the plant, which are believed to help reduce skin inflammation and promote healing. The active compounds in dandelion, such as sesquiterpene lactones and flavonoids, may support the body's natural processes in managing psoriatic lesions. While some users report relief from symptoms like redness and scaling, scientific evidence supporting its efficacy for psoriasis is limited.
As with any herbal treatment, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating dandelion-based creams into a psoriasis management plan.
7. Salvia officinalis
Salvia officinalis, commonly known as sage, has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making it a potential ingredient in herbal creams for psoriasis.
These creams often combine sage extract with other natural components like aloe vera or chamomile to enhance their soothing effects on inflamed skin. Studies suggest that salvia officinalis may help reduce redness, itching, and scaling associated with psoriasis by modulating inflammatory responses. However, it is important to consult a dermatologist before using such creams, as individual skin reactions can vary.
While herbal creams may offer some relief, they should not replace prescribed treatments without medical guidance.
8. Curcuma longa
Curcuma longa, commonly known as turmeric, has been widely studied for its potential benefits in treating psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches.
The active compound in turmeric, curcumin, possesses strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce the inflammation and skin irritation associated with psoriasis. When incorporated into topical creams, curcuma longa can provide targeted relief by soothing the affected areas and potentially slowing the progression of psoriatic plaques. However, while some studies suggest promising results, more research is needed to fully understand its efficacy and optimal formulations for psoriasis treatment.
As with any herbal remedy, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating curcuma longa creams into a psoriasis management plan.
9. Echinacea purpurea
Echinacea purpurea, commonly known as purple coneflower, is a herbal remedy that has been traditionally used for its immune-boosting properties.
Some herbal creams containing echinacea purpurea are marketed for their potential to reduce inflammation and skin irritation, which may offer some relief for individuals with psoriasis. While there is limited scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness for psoriasis specifically, some studies suggest that echinacea may help modulate the immune system, which plays a key role in the condition. It is important to note that echinacea should not replace prescribed treatments for psoriasis and should be used with caution, as it may cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
As with any herbal remedy, consulting a healthcare provider before incorporating echinacea into a psoriasis treatment plan is recommended.
10. Equisetum arvense
Equisetum arvense, commonly known as horsetail, is a plant that has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its high concentration of silica and other bioactive compounds.
Herbal creams containing Equisetum arvense are often marketed for their potential to soothe and heal psoriatic skin due to their anti-inflammatory and astringent properties. These creams may help reduce redness, scaling, and itching associated with psoriasis by promoting skin repair and strengthening the skin barrier. However, while some anecdotal evidence supports its use, scientific research on its efficacy for psoriasis is limited, and it should not replace conventional treatments without consulting a healthcare professional.
As with any herbal remedy, it is important to assess potential allergies or interactions with other medications before use.