By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 04, 2024
10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Psoriasis
Herbal decoctions for psoriasis are a traditional remedy that has been used to alleviate symptoms of the chronic skin condition.
These decoctions are made by steeping herbs in hot water, releasing their active compounds and anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric, chamomile, and oatmeal decoctions have shown promise in reducing redness, itching, and scaling associated with psoriasis.
By using these herbal decoctions, individuals with psoriasis can experience relief from discomfort and embarrassment, allowing them to live more confidently and comfortably.
The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for psoriasis, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Aloe vera
- 2. Calendula officinalis
- 3. Curcuma longa
- 4. Ginkgo biloba
- 5. Eleutherococcus senticosus
- 6. Hypericum perforatum
- 7. Hydrastis canadensis
- 8. Ulmus rubra
- 9. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 10. Taraxacum officinale
- What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for psoriasis?
- What ailments similar to psoriasis are treated with herbal decoctions?
1. Aloe vera
Aloe decoctions helps with psoriasis because they contain anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce swelling and redness associated with the condition.
The decoctions also have antioxidant properties, which help to repair damaged skin cells and promote collagen production, leading to improved skin elasticity and flexibility. Additionally, aloe vera has been shown to modulate the immune system, reducing inflammation and alleviating symptoms of psoriasis.
By using herbal aloe decoctions topically, individuals with psoriasis may experience relief from itching, scaling, and redness, promoting healthier-looking skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera decoctions that help with psoriasis.
- Aloe-emodin: This anthraquinone compound has anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative properties, which help reduce inflammation and slow down the growth of skin cells that contribute to psoriasis lesions.
- Chrysophanic acid: This phenolic compound has potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects, which help reduce inflammation, prevent the activation of immune cells, and inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines that contribute to psoriasis.
- Acemannan: This polysaccharide has immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties, which help regulate the immune response, reduce inflammation, and promote the healing of skin lesions in psoriasis patients.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make decoctions for psoriasis.
- Leaves: Used due to their high gel content, which helps soothe and calm skin irritations associated with psoriasis.
- Stems: Used as they contain a high concentration of aloe-emodin, a compound that may help reduce inflammation and prevent cell proliferation.
- Roots: Used as they contain a compound called aloin, which is known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-itch properties, helping to alleviate psoriasis symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for psoriasis.
- Harvest a mature aloe vera leaf and carefully extract 30ml of fresh gel from it.
- Combine the extracted gel with 200ml of boiling water in a saucepan to prepare the decoction.
- Boil the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes over low heat to release the active compounds.
- Strain the decoction through a fine mesh sieve into a clean glass container to remove the solids.
- Store the herbal aloe vera decoction in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before consumption.
2. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold decoctions helps with psoriasis because they possess potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can soothe and calm irritated skin.
The decoction's rich concentration of flavonoids, phenolic acids, and carotenoids works to reduce redness and swelling associated with psoriatic lesions, while its antifungal and antibacterial properties combat underlying infections that may exacerbate the condition.
Additionally, pot marigold decoctions have been shown to promote wound healing and reduce inflammation in skin tissue, making them a valuable natural remedy for managing psoriasis symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis decoctions that help with psoriasis.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which help reduce inflammation and modulate the immune response in psoriasis, thereby alleviating symptoms.
- Flavonoids: Specifically, flavonoids like kaempferol and quercetin present in Calendula exhibit potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which help mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation associated with psoriasis.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, including ferulic acid and sinapic acid, in Calendula have been found to possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help reduce inflammation and prevent infection in psoriatic lesions.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make decoctions for psoriasis.
- Flowers: They are the most commonly used part due to their high content of anti-inflammatory compounds and flavonoids that help soothe and calm the skin.
- Leaves: They contain similar compounds as flowers, making them a suitable alternative for decoctions, especially when flowers are not readily available.
- Buds: The buds, although less commonly used, may also be used in decoctions due to their potential anti-inflammatory properties and ability to promote skin healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for psoriasis.
- Gather 25-30g of dried calendula officinalis flowers to make the herbal decoction.
- Combine the dried flowers with 250ml of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass or ceramic container.
- Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes to allow the flowers to infuse their properties into the water.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove the solids.
- Allow the decoction to cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing it for later use.
3. Curcuma longa
Turmeric decoctions helps with psoriasis because it contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound that reduces inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.
This natural remedy has been shown to improve skin health by reducing symptoms such as redness, itching, and scaling associated with psoriasis. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric also help to reduce joint pain and stiffness, common comorbidities with psoriasis.
By incorporating turmeric decoctions into a daily routine, individuals with psoriasis may experience improved overall skin health and reduced symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa decoctions that help with psoriasis.
- Curcuminoids: Help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which contribute to psoriasis symptoms, by inhibiting pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
- Gingerols and shogaols: Have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help alleviate psoriasis symptoms by suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory mediators and reducing oxidative damage to skin cells.
- Demethoxycurcumin: Show promise in inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes involved in the pathogenesis of psoriasis, making it a potential therapeutic agent for managing the condition.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make decoctions for psoriasis.
- Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes of Curcuma longa are commonly used due to their high concentration of curcumin, a bioactive compound that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Roots: The roots of Curcuma longa are used for their medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which help in alleviating psoriasis symptoms.
- Leaves: The leaves of Curcuma longa are used in traditional medicine due to their potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can aid in soothing skin irritations associated with psoriasis.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for psoriasis.
- Gather 1 tablespoon of dried root powder of curcuma longa, and 2 cups of boiling water.
- Combine the root powder with boiling water, reduce heat to a simmer for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large ceramic bowl, discard the solids.
- Store the decoction in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Take 1/2 cup of the cooled decoction, 2 to 3 times a day, as needed.
4. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree decoctions helps with psoriasis because of its unique composition of antioxidants, flavonoids, and saponins.
These compounds work together to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which are common triggers of the condition. The decoction also possesses anti-proliferative properties, which help to slow down the rapid skin cell growth associated with psoriasis.
Additionally, the decoction's moisturizing and soothing effects can help to calm redness and itchiness, providing relief from symptoms and promoting a healthy, clear complexion.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba decoctions that help with psoriasis.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly quercetin and kaempferol, help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress associated with psoriasis, promoting skin health and reducing symptoms.
- Bilobalide: Bilobalide, a triterpene lactone, has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which may help alleviate psoriasis symptoms by reducing inflammation and modulating the immune response.
- Ginkgolides: Ginkgolides, a group of sesquiterpene lactones, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in psoriasis, promoting skin health and reducing symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make decoctions for psoriasis.
- Leaves: They contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help alleviate psoriasis symptoms.
- Seeds: They contain ginkgotoxins, which have anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce inflammation associated with psoriasis.
- Barks: They contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and calm the skin affected by psoriasis.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for psoriasis.
- Gather 250-500mg of dried ginkgo biloba leaves and flowers and store in a cool dry place.
- Measure 1 teaspoon of the dried herbs into a small saucepan and add 1 cup of water.
- Bring the water to a boil then reduce the heat to a simmer and let steep for 3-5 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a cup or bottle.
- Store the cooled decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and drink 1-2 cups daily.
5. Eleutherococcus senticosus
Siberian ginseng decoctions helps with psoriasis because of its ability to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which are common underlying factors in the disease.
The decoction's anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe itchy and irritated skin, while its antioxidant compounds can combat free radicals that contribute to cell damage. Additionally, Siberian ginseng has been shown to modulate the immune system, reducing excessive inflammation and promoting a balanced response.
By addressing these underlying causes, herbal Siberian ginseng decoctions may provide relief from psoriasis symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eleutherococcus senticosus decoctions that help with psoriasis.
- Eleutherosides: These triterpene saponins have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which can help reduce the inflammatory response and alleviate symptoms associated with psoriasis.
- Polysaccharides: These complex carbohydrates can stimulate the immune system, promote the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines, and enhance the body's natural defense mechanisms against psoriasis-related inflammation.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in psoriasis lesions, promoting healing and reducing symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of siberian ginseng used to make decoctions for psoriasis.
- Roots: They are the primary source of eleutherosides, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antipsoriatic properties.
- Stems: Eleutherosides present in stems are thought to contribute to the plant's adaptogenic and anti-inflammatory effects, potentially beneficial for psoriasis treatment.
- Leaves: Leaves of Eleutherococcus senticosus contain eleutherosides that are believed to help reduce inflammation and promote skin health, making them a useful component in decoctions for psoriasis.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic siberian ginseng for psoriasis.
- Gather 1-2 teaspoons of dried root of eleutherococcus senticosus per 8 ounces of water for decoction.
- Boil the water in a pot then add the dried root for 10-15 minutes of steeping time.
- Reduce heat to a simmer after adding the root for continued gentle heat and moisture.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine mesh into a separate container to remove solids.
- Store the cooled decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or use immediately.
6. Hypericum perforatum
St John's wort decoctions helps with psoriasis because of its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties.
The decoction has been shown to reduce inflammation in the skin, which is a hallmark symptom of psoriasis. Additionally, St John's wort has been found to modulate the immune system, reducing the activation of T-cells that contribute to the development of psoriatic lesions.
By calming the inflammatory response and regulating the immune system, St John's wort decoctions can help alleviate symptoms such as redness, itching, and scaling associated with psoriasis.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum decoctions that help with psoriasis.
- Naphthodianthrones: These compounds, particularly hyperforin and hypericin, have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties, which can help reduce the inflammation and immune system dysregulation associated with psoriasis.
- Flavonoids: Hypericum perforatum flavonoids, such as quercetin and kaempferol, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the skin, thereby alleviating psoriasis symptoms.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids like ferulic acid and caffeic acid present in Hypericum perforatum have been found to have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the severity of psoriasis symptoms by protecting the skin from oxidative damage and inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make decoctions for psoriasis.
- Leaves: The leaves are considered most effective due to their higher concentration of hyperforin and other bioactive compounds responsible for their therapeutic properties.
- Flowers: The flowers contain flavonoids and other active compounds that can help in reducing inflammation and promoting skin health, making them useful for treating psoriasis.
- Roots: The roots of Hypericum perforatum contain bioactive compounds like hyperforin and adhyperforin, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties beneficial for psoriasis treatment.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for psoriasis.
- Harvest 25-30 grams of dried hypericum perforatum flowers and leaves from a trusted source.
- Crush 5-10 grams of the harvested plant material into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Combine 200 milliliters of boiling water with the crushed plant powder in a heat-resistant container.
- Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes then strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve.
- Discard the solids and store the resulting decoction in a clean glass container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
7. Hydrastis canadensis
Goldenseal decoctions helps with psoriasis because its active compounds, berberine and isoquinoline alkaloids, have potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
These compounds help to reduce inflammation in the skin, which can alleviate symptoms of psoriasis such as redness, swelling, and itching.
Additionally, goldenseal's antibacterial and antifungal properties may help to combat infections that can exacerbate psoriasis, promoting a healthier skin environment and reducing the occurrence of flares.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hydrastis canadensis decoctions that help with psoriasis.
- Alkaloids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent infection in psoriasis lesions.
- Iridoids: These compounds possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress associated with psoriasis.
- Triterpenoids: This compound has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and regulate the immune response in psoriasis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of goldenseal used to make decoctions for psoriasis.
- Roots: The roots contain berberine, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that helps soothe and calm psoriasis symptoms.
- Stems: The stems of Hydrastis canadensis contain hydrastine, which may help reduce redness and inflammation in psoriasis sufferers.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic goldenseal for psoriasis.
- Harvest 1-2 ounces of hydrastis canadensis roots during the spring or fall to ensure optimal potency.
- Clean and dry the harvested roots for 24-48 hours to prevent contamination and spoilage.
- Chop the dried roots into small pieces using a sharp knife or a mortar and pestle.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of the chopped roots with 1 cup of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
- Simmer the mixture for 5-10 minutes and strain it using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve.
8. Ulmus rubra
Slippery elm decoctions helps with psoriasis because its mucilaginous properties soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing inflammation and redness.
The decoction's emollient effects also help to moisturize and soften dry, scaly skin patches, promoting a healthier skin barrier. Additionally, slippery elm contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce the production of cytokines, which contribute to psoriasis flares.
By providing gentle, non-irritating relief, slippery elm decoctions can be a valuable complementary therapy for managing psoriasis symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ulmus rubra decoctions that help with psoriasis.
- Phenolic acids: Help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress associated with psoriasis by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Terpenoids: Have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which may help reduce inflammation and prevent skin cell proliferation, a hallmark of psoriasis.
- Flavonoids: Possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, thereby alleviating psoriasis symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of slippery elm used to make decoctions for psoriasis.
- Roots: Used for their anti-inflammatory properties to reduce redness and swelling associated with psoriasis.
- Leaves: Utilized for their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties to soothe and calm irritated skin.
- Barks: Employed for their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties to help reduce inflammation and prevent infection in psoriatic lesions.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic slippery elm for psoriasis.
- Gather one part of dried ulmus rubra bark and one part of dried root to create a decoction.
- Commence by boiling four cups of water in a saucepan to create a base for decoction.
- Add the combined dried ulmus rubra bark and root to the boiling water to create a decoction.
- Simmer the decoction for 10 to 15 minutes or until the liquid reduces to one cup.
- Strain the decoction to remove the solids and discard the used ulmus rubra material.
9. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice decoctions helps with psoriasis because it has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with the condition.
The glycyrrhizin present in licorice root also helps to soothe and calm irritated skin, promoting a healthy environment for healing. Additionally, licorice decoctions have been shown to improve skin elasticity, firmness, and hydration, which can help to reduce psoriasis symptoms such as dryness and scaling.
As a result, using herbal licorice decoctions may provide relief from psoriasis-related discomfort and promote overall skin health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra decoctions that help with psoriasis.
- Glycyrrhizic acid: It helps with psoriasis by modulating the immune system and reducing inflammation, thereby alleviating symptoms such as redness and scaling.
- Liquiritin apioside: It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce the severity of psoriasis symptoms, including itching and skin thickening.
- Glycosides: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing the appearance of psoriasis plaques.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make decoctions for psoriasis.
- Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are widely used due to their high glycyrrhizin content, which has anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties that help to reduce symptoms of psoriasis.
- Leaves: The leaves are used for their emollient and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing redness and irritation associated with psoriasis.
- Barks: The barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to prevent infection and reduce inflammation in the affected skin areas, promoting healing and recovery.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for psoriasis.
- Measure out the dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and combine them with 250ml of water in a saucepan.
- Heat the mixture over low heat for 10-15 minutes to allow the roots to infuse.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth into a clean container discarding the solids.
- Allow the decoction to cool to room temperature before refrigerating it for later use.
- Consume the cooled decoction in doses of 50-100ml three times a day as needed.
10. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion decoctions helps with psoriasis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The plant's bioactive compounds, such as taraxasterol and sesquiterpene lactones, have been shown to reduce inflammation in the skin, thus alleviating symptoms like redness, itching, and scaling. Additionally, dandelion decoctions may help modulate the immune response, which is often disrupted in psoriasis patients.
By soothing and calming the skin, these natural extracts can provide relief from this chronic condition, promoting a clearer, healthier complexion.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale decoctions that help with psoriasis.
- Polysaccharides: Help reduce inflammation and modulate the immune system to alleviate symptoms of psoriasis.
- Apigenin: Exert anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help in reducing the severity of psoriasis symptoms and promoting skin healing.
- Taraxasterol: Possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which can help in regulating the immune response and reducing the symptoms of psoriasis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make decoctions for psoriasis.
- Leaves: They are used due to their high concentration of sesquiterpene lactones, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Roots: They are used because they contain inulin, a polysaccharide with potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that may help alleviate psoriasis symptoms.
- Flowers: They are used due to their high content of sesquiterpene lactones and other bioactive compounds, which may help reduce inflammation and promote skin health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for psoriasis.
- Harvest fresh taraxacum officinale leaves and roots in the early morning to ensure optimal potency and flavor.
- Clean the harvested taraxacum officinale leaves and roots thoroughly with cold running water to remove dirt and debris.
- Combine 20 grams of taraxacum officinale leaves and 10 grams of taraxacum officinale roots in a large pot with 2 liters of water.
- Boil the taraxacum officinale mixture for 15 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.
- Strain the taraxacum officinale decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove solids.
What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for psoriasis?
The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with psoriasis is a blend of turmeric, ginger, and aloe vera.
Turmeric contains curcumin, which reduces inflammation and promotes healing. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and calm the skin.
Aloe vera, rich in vitamins A, C, and E, hydrates and moisturizes the skin. Additionally, chamomile and calendula can be added to reduce redness and promote skin regeneration.
These herbal decoctions work together to alleviate symptoms of psoriasis, promoting healthy and balanced skin.
What ailments similar to psoriasis are treated with herbal decoctions?
Ailments similar to psoriasis/decoctions.html">psoriasis/decoctions.html">psoriasis that are treated with herbal decoctions are eczema, dermatitis, and vitiligo.
These conditions, characterized by skin inflammation and discoloration, can be alleviated with the use of herbal remedies like neem, turmeric, and aloe vera. Decoctions made from these herbs have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to soothe itchy skin, reduce redness, and promote healing.
Additionally, decoctions may also be used to treat other skin conditions such as acne, rosacea, and minor wounds.