10 Best Herbal Essential Oils For Psoriasis

Herbal essential oils have gained attention as complementary treatments for psoriasis due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

Oils such as lavender, tea tree, and chamomile are commonly used for their soothing and skin-soothing effects. These oils can help reduce redness, itching, and scaling when diluted properly and applied topically. However, they should not replace conventional treatments but can be used alongside them under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

It is important to perform a patch test to avoid allergic reactions and ensure safe usage.

1. Curcuma longa

Curcuma longa, commonly known as turmeric, contains a bioactive compound called curcumin, which has been widely studied for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Essential oils derived from Curcuma longa may offer a natural alternative for managing psoriasis symptoms due to their potential to reduce skin inflammation and oxidative stress. However, while some preliminary research suggests that these essential oils may provide relief, more clinical studies are needed to confirm their efficacy and safety for psoriasis treatment. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before using any essential oils, as they can interact with medications or cause skin irritation.

Incorporating Curcuma longa essential oils into a holistic approach may complement conventional treatments, but should not replace them without professional guidance.

2. 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 antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and immune-modulating properties, making it a potential natural remedy for psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune condition characterized by red, scaly skin lesions. Some studies suggest that tea tree oil may help reduce inflammation and itching associated with psoriasis by inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria and fungi that can exacerbate skin conditions. While it is not a cure for psoriasis, it may serve as a complementary therapy when used alongside conventional treatments.

However, it is important to dilute tea tree oil properly before applying it to the skin, as undiluted use can cause irritation or allergic reactions.

3. Salvia officinalis

Salvia officinalis, commonly known as sage, contains essential oils that have been explored for their potential benefits in managing psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune skin condition characterized by inflammation and scaling.

The essential oils derived from sage, particularly those containing compounds like thujone and cineole, may possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that could help reduce skin irritation and infection risks associated with psoriasis. Some preliminary studies suggest that topical application of sage essential oils might alleviate symptoms by modulating the immune response and improving skin barrier function. However, due to the potential for skin irritation and the lack of extensive clinical trials, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using sage essential oils for psoriasis.

While sage essential oils show promise as a complementary therapy, they should not replace conventional medical treatments for this condition.

4. Urtica dioica

Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, has been traditionally used for its potential therapeutic properties, including the production of herbal essential oils that may offer relief for psoriasis sufferers.

The essential oils derived from Urtica dioica are rich in bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, terpenoids, and phenolic acids, which are believed to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. These properties may help reduce the redness, itching, and scaling associated with psoriasis by modulating the immune response and inhibiting inflammatory pathways. However, while some preliminary studies suggest a possible benefit, more clinical research is needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of Urtica dioica essential oils for psoriasis treatment.

As with any complementary therapy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating these oils into a treatment regimen.

5. Cinnamomum zeylanicum

Cinnamomum zeylanicum, commonly known as cinnamon bark, contains essential oils that have shown potential in the management of psoriasis due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

The primary active compounds in these oils, such as cinnamaldehyde and eugenol, help reduce skin inflammation and inhibit the overproduction of skin cells, which are key factors in psoriasis flare-ups. When used in aromatherapy or topical applications, cinnamon essential oil may provide relief from symptoms like redness, itching, and scaling. However, it is important to dilute the oil properly and consult with a healthcare professional before use, as it may cause irritation in some individuals.

Overall, while not a cure, cinnamon essential oil can be a complementary therapy in supporting skin health for those with psoriasis.

6. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger, contains essential oils that have shown potential in the management of psoriasis due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

These essential oils, derived from the rhizome of the plant, include compounds like zingiberene and bisabolene, which may help reduce skin inflammation and slow the rapid growth of skin cells associated with psoriasis. Studies suggest that topical application of ginger essential oils may alleviate symptoms such as redness, scaling, and itching in affected areas. However, further research is needed to confirm its efficacy and safety for long-term use in psoriasis treatment.

As with any complementary therapy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating ginger essential oils into a psoriasis management plan.

7. Aloe barbadensis

Aloe barbadensis, commonly known as aloe vera, is often used in the form of essential oils for its potential therapeutic benefits in managing psoriasis.

The essential oil derived from aloe vera contains compounds such as aloin and various terpenes, which may have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. While aloe vera is widely used in topical treatments for psoriasis, it is important to note that the essential oil form is distinct from the gel and may have different concentrations of active ingredients. Some studies suggest that aloe vera can help reduce skin inflammation and promote healing, making it a complementary therapy for individuals with psoriasis.

However, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using aloe barbadensis essential oils, as they may cause irritation or interact with other treatments.

8. Rosmarinus officinalis

Rosmarinus officinalis, commonly known as rosemary, is a medicinal plant whose essential oil has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The essential oil of rosemary contains compounds such as cineole, camphor, and rosmarinic acid, which may help reduce inflammation and skin irritation associated with psoriasis. Studies suggest that topical application of rosemary essential oil may alleviate symptoms by promoting skin regeneration and modulating immune responses. However, it is important to dilute the oil properly before use to avoid skin irritation, as undiluted essential oils can be harsh.

While rosemary essential oil shows promise as a complementary therapy for psoriasis, it should not replace conventional medical treatments without consulting a healthcare professional.

9. Eucalyptus globulus

Eucalyptus globulus, commonly known as the blue gum eucalyptus, is a popular source of essential oil that has been studied for its potential benefits in managing psoriasis.

The essential oil contains compounds such as cineole, which possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that may help reduce skin inflammation and infection risks associated with psoriasis. When used topically, eucalyptus globulus oil may help soothe redness, itching, and scaling by promoting skin healing and reducing oxidative stress. However, it is important to dilute the oil properly before application to avoid skin irritation, as undiluted essential oils can be harsh on sensitive skin.

While some preliminary research suggests it may be a complementary therapy for psoriasis, more clinical studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness and long-term safety.

10. Thymus vulgaris

Thymus vulgaris, commonly known as thyme, is a medicinal plant whose essential oil has been traditionally used for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The essential oil of thyme contains potent compounds such as thymol and carvacrol, which have shown potential in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress—key factors in the development of psoriasis. Some studies suggest that topical application of thyme essential oil may help alleviate symptoms such as redness, scaling, and itching associated with psoriasis. However, it is important to note that while preliminary research is promising, more clinical trials are needed to confirm its efficacy and safety for psoriasis treatment.

As with any essential oil, it should be used with caution and under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.