By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 19, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Psoriasis
Herbal creams for psoriasis are topical treatments made from natural herbs and plants that help alleviate symptoms of the skin condition.
They work by reducing inflammation, soothing itching, and promoting skin regeneration. Examples of herbal creams for psoriasis include aloe vera, tea tree oil, and chamomile.
These creams can improve lives by reducing redness, scaling, and discomfort, allowing individuals to manage their condition and enjoy daily activities with greater confidence and comfort.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for psoriasis, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Aloe vera
- 2. Calendula officinalis
- 3. Matricaria chamomilla
- 4. Curcuma longa
- 5. Zingiber officinale
- 6. Hypericum perforatum
- 7. Althaea officinalis
- 8. Symphytum officinale
- 9. Lavandula angustifolia
- 10. Melaleuca alternifolia
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for psoriasis?
- What ailments similar to psoriasis are treated with herbal creams?
1. Aloe vera
Aloe vera, also known as aloe, creams helps with psoriasis because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The gel extracted from the aloe plant has been shown to reduce redness and swelling associated with psoriasis. The vitamin E and fatty acids present in aloe vera cream help to moisturize and calm the skin, reducing the appearance of psoriasis lesions.
Additionally, aloe vera's natural antibacterial properties help to prevent infection and promote healthy skin regeneration, making it an effective treatment option for psoriasis sufferers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera creams that help with psoriasis.
- Glucomannans: These soluble fiber polysaccharides have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce the severity of psoriasis symptoms by minimizing skin inflammation.
- Vitamins a, c, and e: These antioxidants neutralize free radicals, reduce oxidative stress, and promote skin cell regeneration, contributing to improved skin health and reduced psoriasis symptoms.
- Aloin and anthraquinones: These anthraquinone derivatives have anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects, which help reduce skin inflammation and slow down the growth of skin cells, both of which are beneficial in managing psoriasis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make creams for psoriasis.
- Leaves: Gel extracted from Aloe vera leaves is widely used due to its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help to reduce redness and itching associated with psoriasis.
- Leaves: Aloe vera leaf extracts are also rich in vitamins and minerals, making them effective in promoting skin regeneration and reducing inflammation, which is beneficial for psoriasis treatment.
- Leaves: The gel from Aloe vera leaves contains aloin, which has been shown to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing, making it an effective ingredient in creams for psoriasis treatment.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for psoriasis.
- Gather 100g of aloe vera gel from 2-3 mature leaves and 20g of coconut oil.
- Sterilize 50g of beeswax and 30g of shea butter by heating them in a double boiler.
- Combine 20g of sweet almond oil and 20g of vitamin e oil in a separate bowl.
- Mix the aloe vera gel and oil mixture with the beeswax and shea butter mixture slowly.
- Pour the mixture into a container and let it cool for at least 30 minutes before use.
2. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with psoriasis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
The cream soothes and calms irritated skin, reducing redness and inflammation associated with psoriasis. Its ability to promote wound healing and tissue repair also helps to speed up the healing process of psoriasis lesions. Additionally, calendula's antimicrobial properties help to combat infections that can exacerbate psoriasis symptoms, providing relief and promoting healthy skin.
This makes calendula cream a popular natural remedy for managing psoriasis symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with psoriasis.
- Triterpenoid saponins: These compounds help reduce inflammation and promote wound healing, which can alleviate the symptoms of psoriasis.
- Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help mitigate the inflammation and oxidative stress associated with psoriasis.
- Nordihydroguaiaretic acid: This phenolic compound has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help reduce the severity of psoriasis symptoms by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for psoriasis.
- Flowers: They are the most commonly used part due to their high content of triterpenoid esters, which have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
- Leaves: They are also widely used as they contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which contribute to their soothing and moisturizing effects.
- Stems: Stems of Calendula officinalis are sometimes used due to their anti-inflammatory properties and the presence of sesquiterpene lactones.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for psoriasis.
- Infuse 2 tablespoons of dried calendula officinalis flowers in 1 cup of carrier oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth and discard the solids after 2 hours.
- Melt 1/4 cup of beeswax in a double boiler over low heat for 5 minutes.
- Combine the infused oil with 1/4 cup of shea butter and 1/4 cup of coconut oil in a bowl.
- Whisk the mixture until it's smooth and creamy and pour it into a glass jar after 10 minutes.
3. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, creams helps with psoriasis because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The herb contains apigenin and luteolin, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the skin. The cream also has a calming effect on the skin, reducing redness and itching associated with psoriasis.
By applying the cream topically, it may help to alleviate symptoms and promote healthy skin, providing relief from the discomfort and appearance of psoriasis.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla creams that help with psoriasis.
- Apoliposaccharides: These glycoproteins in chamomile have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce redness and swelling associated with psoriasis.
- Apigenin: A flavonoid compound found in chamomile, apigenin has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help soothe and calm the skin, reducing psoriasis symptoms.
- Matricine: A sesquiterpene lactone present in chamomile, matricine has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help regulate the body's immune response and alleviate psoriasis symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make creams for psoriasis.
- Flowers: They are used to make creams for psoriasis because they contain anti-inflammatory compounds like apigenin and luteolin that help soothe and calm irritated skin.
- Leaves: They are used to make creams for psoriasis because they contain anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help reduce redness and inflammation associated with the condition.
- Seeds: They are used to make creams for psoriasis because they contain essential fatty acids and antioxidants that help to moisturize and protect the skin, reducing inflammation and promoting skin health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for psoriasis.
- Infuse 1 part dried matricaria chamomilla flowers in 5 parts distilled water for 10 minutes to create a tea-like liquid.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean bowl to remove solids.
- Combine 200g of beeswax with 200g of coconut oil in a double boiler and heat until melted.
- Gradually add the cooled matricaria chamomilla infusion to the melted beeswax mixture while stirring constantly for 10 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into a clean glass jar and let it cool and solidify at room temperature for 30 minutes.
4. Curcuma longa
Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, creams helps with psoriasis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The active compound curcumin in turmeric has been shown to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which are key factors in the development and progression of psoriasis.
By inhibiting the production of inflammatory molecules and promoting the repair of damaged skin, curcuma longa creams can help alleviate symptoms such as redness, scaling, and itching associated with psoriasis, leading to improved skin health and quality of life.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa creams that help with psoriasis.
- Curcumin: This polyphenolic compound has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in psoriatic lesions, thereby alleviating symptoms.
- Demethoxycurcumin: A lesser-known but significant constituent of Curcuma longa, DMC has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help regulate the immune response and reduce psoriasis severity.
- Tumerone: A sesquiterpene compound found in Curcuma longa, Tumerone has been reported to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which can help mitigate the inflammation and oxidative stress associated with psoriasis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make creams for psoriasis.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are the most commonly used part of Curcuma longa due to their high concentration of curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory compound that helps reduce psoriasis symptoms.
- Roots: Roots of Curcuma longa are used for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to soothe and calm psoriasis-affected skin.
- Leaves: Leaves of Curcuma longa are also used in creams for psoriasis due to their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which help to reduce inflammation and prevent infection.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for psoriasis.
- Grate 2 inches of curcuma longa root using a fine grater or a microplane to release its active compounds.
- Combine the grated root with 1 cup of coconut oil in a small saucepan and gently heat over low heat.
- Add 1 tablespoon of beeswax to the mixture and stir until fully incorporated and melted.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool to around 120°f to 140°f.
- Whip the mixture with an electric mixer or a hand mixer until it becomes smooth and creamy.
5. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, creams helps with psoriasis because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, have been shown to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing, which can help to soothe and calm psoriasis symptoms. Additionally, ginger has been found to have immunomodulatory effects, which can help to regulate the immune system and reduce the severity of psoriasis outbreaks.
This makes ginger creams a promising natural treatment option for managing psoriasis symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale creams that help with psoriasis.
- Gingerols: These phenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation and redness associated with psoriasis.
- Shogaols: These sesquiterpenoid compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which help protect the skin from oxidative stress and reduce the severity of psoriasis symptoms.
- Zingiberene: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which help regulate the immune response and reduce the severity of psoriasis symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make creams for psoriasis.
- Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale contain gingerols, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that aid in healing and calming psoriasis-affected skin.
- Barks: The barks of the plant contain bioactive compounds that help to reduce inflammation, itching, and redness associated with psoriasis, making them a valuable addition to creams for psoriasis treatment.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for psoriasis.
- Harvest 2 cups of fresh zingiber officinale rhizomes and clean them under cold running water for 5 minutes.
- Peel the rhizomes and chop them into small pieces then soak them in 1 cup of glycerin for 4 hours.
- Combine the soaked zingiber officinale mixture with 1/2 cup of distilled water and 2 tablespoons of emulsifying wax in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture over low heat and stir it constantly for 30 minutes then remove it from the heat.
- Allow the mixture to cool and thicken for 2 hours before transferring it to a clean container for storage.
6. Hypericum perforatum
Hypericum perforatum, also known as St John's Wort, creams helps with psoriasis because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The plant's bioactive compounds, particularly hyperforin and hypericin, have been shown to reduce inflammation and promote skin healing. By inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and increasing the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines, Hypericum perforatum creams can help to soothe and calm psoriatic skin, reducing redness, itching, and scaling.
This can lead to improved skin health and a reduction in psoriasis symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum creams that help with psoriasis.
- Flavonoids: These plant-derived compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce redness and swelling associated with psoriasis.
- Hyperforin: A phenolic compound, hyperforin has shown potential in reducing inflammation and modulating the immune system, thereby alleviating psoriasis symptoms.
- Naphthodianthrones: These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help protect the skin from damage and reduce the severity of psoriasis symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make creams for psoriasis.
- Leaves: Leaves of Hypericum perforatum are rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties beneficial for psoriasis treatment.
- Flowers: Hypericum perforatum flowers contain hyperforin, a compound with anti-inflammatory and antipsoriatic properties that help in soothing and calming psoriasis symptoms.
- Roots: The roots of Hypericum perforatum are a rich source of hypericin, a compound with antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that help in reducing redness and inflammation associated with psoriasis.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for psoriasis.
- Harvest 250g of fresh st john's wort flowers and leaves in the morning after dew has evaporated.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a single layer at 35°c for 24 hours.
- Infuse 50g of dried st john's wort in 500ml of cold-pressed oil at 60°c for 4 hours.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean container.
- Mix 10g of beeswax and 10g of shea butter with the infused oil and heat at 60°c for 10 minutes.
7. Althaea officinalis
Althaea officinalis, also known as marshmallow, creams helps with psoriasis because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The root of the marshmallow plant contains mucilages, which form a protective barrier on the skin's surface, reducing inflammation and itching. This helps to calm and moisturize the skin, reducing the appearance of psoriasis plaques and promoting a smoother, healthier skin tone.
Regular use of Althaea officinalis creams may also help to reduce scaling and redness associated with psoriasis.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis creams that help with psoriasis.
- Mucilages: Mucilages help soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with psoriasis.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, specifically quercetin, have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness and swelling in psoriasis-affected areas.
- Glycosides: Glycosides, such as althaeic acid, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help reduce the severity of psoriasis symptoms and promote skin healing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make creams for psoriasis.
- Roots: They are rich in mucilages, which provide soothing and protective properties for skin affected by psoriasis.
- Leaves: They contain flavonoids and other compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to reduce psoriasis symptoms.
- Barks: They are a good source of mucilages and other bioactive compounds that can help to calm and protect the skin, reducing inflammation associated with psoriasis.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for psoriasis.
- Extract 30g of dried althaea officinalis roots in a 2:1 ratio with ethanol at room temperature for 24 hours.
- Filter the extract through a coffee filter and discard the solids.
- Combine 100g of distilled water with 50g of the filtered extract in a double boiler at 40-50°c for 30 minutes.
- Gradually add 50g of emulsifying wax to the mixture and stir until fully incorporated.
- Allow the mixture to cool and thicken before packaging and storing in a cool place for up to 6 months.
8. Symphytum officinale
Symphytum officinale, also known as comfrey, creams helps with psoriasis because of its anti-inflammatory and skin-regenerating properties.
The cream's ability to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated skin makes it an effective treatment for psoriasis symptoms. The allantoin and rosmarinic acid in comfrey cream help to promote skin cell growth, reduce scarring, and improve skin texture.
Additionally, the cream's moisturizing properties help to lock in moisture, reducing the appearance of psoriasis lesions and promoting a healthier, more even skin tone.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Symphytum officinale creams that help with psoriasis.
- Flavonoids: These compounds help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in psoriasis, which contributes to the disease's characteristic skin lesions.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help alleviate the symptoms of psoriasis, such as redness and scaling.
- Saponins: These compounds have been found to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing the severity of psoriasis symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of comfrey used to make creams for psoriasis.
- Leaves: They are rich in mucilage, which provides soothing and moisturizing properties to help alleviate psoriasis symptoms.
- Roots: They contain compounds like glycosides, which have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, helping to reduce inflammation and prevent infection in psoriasis.
- Stems: They are also a source of mucilage, which can help to soften and protect the skin, promoting healing and reducing discomfort in psoriasis sufferers.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic comfrey for psoriasis.
- Harvest the symphytum officinale roots and leaves in the morning after the dew has dried.
- Chop the harvested roots and leaves into small pieces and dry them in a low temperature oven at 50 degrees celsius for 24 hours.
- Steep the dried plant material in a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil in a ratio of 1:5 for 2 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter and discard the solids.
- Mix the strained oil with beeswax in a ratio of 1:0.5 and heat the mixture in a double boiler until the beeswax is fully dissolved.
9. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, creams helps with psoriasis because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
The creams reduce redness and swelling associated with psoriasis, promoting a calming effect on the skin. The antiseptic properties also help prevent bacterial and fungal infections that can exacerbate psoriasis symptoms.
Additionally, the soothing properties of lavender oil can help reduce stress and anxiety, which are known to trigger psoriasis flare-ups, ultimately leading to improved skin health and reduced symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia creams that help with psoriasis.
- Linalool: This terpene has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help reduce inflammation and prevent infection in psoriasis-affected skin.
- Linalyl acetate: This terpene has a calming effect on the skin, reducing redness and itching associated with psoriasis, and promoting relaxation and stress relief.
- Apigenin: This phenolic compound exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in psoriasis-affected skin, promoting skin healing and regeneration.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make creams for psoriasis.
- Flowers: They are rich in antioxidants and possess anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in soothing and calming psoriasis symptoms.
- Leaves: They contain essential oils and flavonoids that have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, helping to reduce inflammation and promote healing in psoriasis.
- Seeds: They contain a high concentration of fatty acids and antioxidants, which can help to moisturize and soothe dry, itchy skin associated with psoriasis.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for psoriasis.
- Weigh 500 grams of cold-pressed sweet almond oil in a mixing bowl to ensure accurate measurements.
- Combine 100 grams of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers with 1 liter of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
- Steep the mixture for 30 minutes and then strain it through a cheesecloth to remove solids.
- Mix 200 grams of beeswax with 100 grams of shea butter in a double boiler at 160 degrees fahrenheit for 10 minutes.
- Blend the infused oil with the beeswax mixture until a smooth consistency is achieved in about 5 minutes.
10. Melaleuca alternifolia
Melaleuca alternifolia, also known as tea tree, creams helps with psoriasis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
The oil extracted from this plant has been shown to reduce redness and swelling associated with psoriasis, while also soothing and calming the skin. Additionally, tea tree oil's ability to combat fungal and bacterial infections can help prevent flare-ups, promoting a healthier and more balanced skin environment.
This can lead to improved skin clarity and reduced psoriasis symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melaleuca alternifolia creams that help with psoriasis.
- Cineole: Acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing redness and swelling associated with psoriasis.
- Linalool: Exhibits antimicrobial properties, helping to combat infections that can exacerbate psoriasis.
- Caryophyllene oxide: Shows anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which may help alleviate psoriasis symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make creams for psoriasis.
- Leaves: They are rich in tea tree oil, which has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help soothe and calm psoriasis symptoms.
- Seeds: They contain melaleuca alternifolia oil, which has antimicrobial properties that aid in reducing inflammation and promoting healing in psoriasis.
- Stems: They are also a source of melaleuca alternifolia oil, which is commonly used in creams to help reduce redness and itching associated with psoriasis.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for psoriasis.
- Harvest 20-30 melaleuca alternifolia leaves from mature trees and dry them in a single layer for 1 week.
- Combine 10 grams of dried melaleuca alternifolia leaves with 100 ml of carrier oil in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture over low heat for 2 hours to infuse the oil with the herbal properties.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean container and discard the solids.
- Blend the infused oil with 30 grams of beeswax and 10 grams of shea butter in a double boiler.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for psoriasis?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with psoriasis is a blend of aloe vera, tea tree oil, and chamomile.
Aloe vera soothes and calms irritated skin, while tea tree oil's antifungal and antibacterial properties reduce inflammation and prevent infection. Chamomile's anti-inflammatory properties further reduce redness and itching. This combination can be applied topically to affected areas, providing relief from the symptoms of psoriasis and promoting healthy skin regeneration.
It's essential to consult a dermatologist before using any new creams.
What ailments similar to psoriasis are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to psoriasis/creams.html">psoriasis/creams.html">psoriasis that are treated with herbal creams are eczema, dermatitis, and atopic dermatitis.
These conditions cause inflammation, itching, and skin lesions, which herbal creams can help soothe and calm.
Creams containing herbs like aloe vera, calendula, and chamomile have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that can reduce redness, swelling, and irritation, providing relief to affected individuals.