10 Best Herbal Essential Oils For Psoriasis
Herbal essential oils have gained attention as potential complementary treatments for psoriasis due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Oils such as lavender, tea tree, and eucalyptus are commonly used for their soothing and skin-repairing effects. These oils can be diluted with a carrier oil and applied topically to reduce redness, scaling, and itching associated with psoriasis. While they may offer relief, they should not replace conventional medical treatments but rather be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Research on their efficacy is ongoing, highlighting the need for more clinical studies to fully understand their role in managing psoriasis.
Table of Contents
1. Curcuma longa
Curcuma longa, commonly known as turmeric, contains essential oils that have shown potential in the management of psoriasis due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
These essential oils, derived from the rhizomes of the plant, include compounds like curcuminoids, which help reduce skin inflammation and oxidative stress associated with psoriasis. Studies suggest that topical application of curcuma longa essential oils may alleviate symptoms such as redness, scaling, and itching in affected skin areas. However, more clinical research is needed to fully understand its efficacy and safety for long-term use in psoriasis treatment.
Despite its promising benefits, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating curcuma longa essential oils into a psoriasis management regimen.
2. Urtica dioica
Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, contains various bioactive compounds that have been explored for their potential therapeutic benefits, including in the management of psoriasis.
Essential oils derived from Urtica dioica are believed to possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antipruritic properties, which may help reduce the redness, itching, and scaling associated with psoriasis. These oils can be applied topically in the form of balms, creams, or diffused aromatically to provide relief and promote skin healing. However, it is important to note that while some preliminary studies suggest a positive effect, more research is needed to confirm their efficacy and safety for psoriasis treatment.
As with any complementary therapy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using Urtica dioica essential oils for psoriasis.
3. Melaleuca alternifolia
Melaleuca alternifolia, commonly known as tea tree oil, is a popular essential oil derived from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia plant, native to Australia.
It is widely recognized for its potent antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, making it a valuable natural remedy for various skin conditions, including psoriasis. Some studies suggest that tea tree oil may help reduce the severity of psoriasis symptoms by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and fungi that can exacerbate skin inflammation. However, it is important to note that while tea tree oil may offer some relief, it should not replace conventional medical treatments for psoriasis.
Always dilute the oil properly before applying it to the skin, as undiluted essential oils can cause irritation or allergic reactions.
4. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger, contains essential oils that have been explored for their potential benefits in managing psoriasis.
These essential oils, derived from the root of the plant, are rich in bioactive compounds such as gingerol and shogaol, which exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Studies suggest that these compounds may help reduce inflammation and skin irritation associated with psoriasis by modulating immune responses and inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines. While more clinical research is needed, some topical applications of ginger essential oils have shown promise in alleviating psoriatic symptoms.
However, it is important to use these oils cautiously and consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating them into a psoriasis treatment regimen.
5. Rosmarinus officinalis
Rosmarinus officinalis, commonly known as rosemary, is a herb whose essential oil has been explored for its potential benefits in managing psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches.
The essential oil contains compounds such as cineole, camphor, and pinene, which possess anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties that may help reduce skin inflammation and infection risk in psoriasis patients. Some studies suggest that topical application of rosemary oil may help soothe irritation and promote skin healing, although more research is needed to confirm its efficacy in clinical settings. When used properly, rosemary essential oil can be a complementary therapy, but it should not replace prescribed medical treatments.
It is important to dilute the oil with a carrier oil before applying it to the skin to avoid irritation and ensure safe use.
6. Echinacea purpurea
Echinacea purpurea, commonly known as purple coneflower, has been traditionally used for its immune-boosting properties, and recent research suggests that its essential oils may offer potential benefits for managing psoriasis.
The essential oils derived from Echinacea purpurea contain compounds such as alkamides, flavonoids, and polysaccharides, which have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. These properties may help reduce the inflammation and skin cell overgrowth associated with psoriasis. While more clinical studies are needed to confirm its efficacy, some preliminary findings indicate that Echinacea essential oils could be a complementary therapy for psoriasis patients.
As with any herbal treatment, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating Echinacea essential oils into a psoriasis management plan.
7. Cinnamomum verum
Cinnamomum verum, commonly known as true cinnamon, contains essential oils that have shown potential in the management of psoriasis due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The essential oil derived from the bark of this plant contains cinnamaldehyde, a key compound responsible for its therapeutic effects. Studies suggest that these oils may help reduce skin inflammation and itching associated with psoriasis by modulating immune responses. However, it is important to use these oils with caution, as they can be irritating to sensitive skin and should be diluted properly before application.
While more research is needed, some individuals with psoriasis have reported relief from using cinnamon essential oil as a complementary therapy under professional guidance.
8. Cinnamomum zeylanicum
Cinnamomum zeylanicum, commonly known as cinnamon, produces an essential oil that has been explored for its potential benefits in managing psoriasis.
The oil contains compounds like cinnamaldehyde and eugenol, which exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that may help reduce skin inflammation and infection risks associated with psoriasis. Some studies suggest that topical application of cinnamon essential oil could alleviate symptoms by modulating immune responses and promoting skin healing. However, due to its potency, it should be diluted properly and used with caution to avoid irritation.
While promising, more clinical research is needed to fully understand its efficacy and safety in treating psoriasis.
9. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as English lavender, is widely used in aromatherapy and herbal medicine for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties.
The essential oil extracted from its flowers contains compounds like linalool and linalyl acetate, which have been shown to reduce skin inflammation and soothe irritation. For individuals with psoriasis, lavender essential oil may help alleviate symptoms such as redness, itching, and scaling when used topically in diluted form. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using essential oils, as they can interact with medications or cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
Overall, lavender essential oil is considered a natural complementary therapy that may support psoriasis management when used safely and appropriately.
10. Salvia officinalis
Salvia officinalis, commonly known as sage, contains essential oils that have shown potential benefits for individuals with psoriasis due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The primary compounds in sage essential oil, such as thujone and camphor, may help reduce skin inflammation and slow the rapid growth of skin cells associated with psoriasis. Topical application of diluted sage essential oil can provide localized relief and may help soothe irritated psoriatic plaques. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using sage essential oil, as it can be potent and may cause skin irritation if not properly diluted.
Overall, while sage essential oil may offer supportive benefits, it should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan under professional guidance.