Last updated: Jul 07, 2024
10 best herbal essential oils for psoriasis
Herbal essential oils for psoriasis are natural extracts obtained from plants, shrubs, and trees that have been used for centuries to alleviate the symptoms of psoriasis.
These oils help by reducing inflammation, soothing itchy skin, and promoting skin cell turnover. Examples of herbal essential oils that benefit psoriasis sufferers include lavender oil, which calms redness and irritation, and tea tree oil, which fights fungal infections that can exacerbate psoriasis.
By incorporating these oils into their daily routines, individuals with psoriasis can experience improved skin health, reduced discomfort, and increased confidence, allowing them to live life more freely and comfortably.
The following article describes in detail the most important essential oils for psoriasis, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
1. Lavandula angustifolia
English lavender essential oils helps with psoriasis because of its anti-inflammatory and calming properties.
The oil's natural compounds, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, work to reduce redness and swelling associated with psoriatic lesions. Additionally, the oil's ability to soothe and calm the skin can help alleviate itching and discomfort often experienced by individuals living with psoriasis.
By reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation, English lavender essential oils can provide relief from the physical and emotional toll of psoriasis.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in english lavender essential oils that aid with psoriasis.
- Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects: Lavender oil's antioxidant properties help reduce oxidative stress, which contributes to psoriasis inflammation, while its anti-inflammatory compounds minimize redness and swelling associated with the condition.
- Immunomodulatory activity: English lavender oil has been shown to modulate the immune system, reducing the overactive immune response that can exacerbate psoriasis symptoms, such as redness, itching, and thickened skin.
- Wound-healing properties: Lavender oil's antiseptic and antimicrobial properties help promote wound healing by preventing infection and promoting tissue regeneration, which is essential for managing open sores or lesions associated with psoriasis.
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make essential oils for psoriasis.
- Roots: The roots of English lavender contain a high concentration of sesquiterpenes, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and calm irritated skin.
- Seeds: English lavender seeds possess a unique combination of terpenoids and flavonoids that provide antiseptic and antioxidant benefits, making them effective in reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for psoriasis.
- Harvest fresh lavandula angustifolia flowers in the early morning when dewy and free of moisture.
- Dry the harvested flowers using a food dehydrator at 30°c for 8 hours or air drying for 7 days.
- Steam distill the dried lavandula angustifolia flowers with 1:4 ratio of material to water for 3 hours.
- Filter the resulting essential oil through a coffee filter paper and store it in a dark glass bottle at room temperature.
- Use the lavandula angustifolia essential oil within 6 months of production, applying topically twice daily as needed.
2. Melissa officinalis
Lemon balm essential oils helps with psoriasis because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to soothe and calm the skin.
The oil's natural compounds, such as rosmarinic acid and terpenes, work together to reduce inflammation and irritation, making it easier to manage symptoms like itching, scaling, and redness.
Additionally, lemon balm essential oils has antimicrobial properties, which can help to prevent infection and promote healthy skin regeneration, ultimately leading to clearer, healthier-looking skin.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in lemon balm essential oils that aid with psoriasis.
- Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties: Herbal lemon balm essential oil's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the skin, which is a common symptom of psoriasis.
- Calming and soothing effects: The calming and soothing effects of herbal lemon balm essential oil can help reduce itching and irritation associated with psoriasis, promoting a sense of relaxation and comfort.
- Antimicrobial properties: Herbal lemon balm essential oil's antimicrobial properties may help combat bacterial overgrowth on the skin, which can exacerbate psoriasis symptoms such as redness, scaling, and crustiness.
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make essential oils for psoriasis.
- Roots: Rich in bioactive compounds, roots are believed to possess anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and calm the skin affected by psoriasis.
- Leaves: Leaves contain flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have been shown to exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, making them effective for treating skin conditions like psoriasis.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for psoriasis.
- Harvest fresh melissa officinalis leaves and stems in the morning for optimal oil quality.
- Wash the harvested plant material with distilled water and gently pat dry with paper towels.
- Steam distill the plant material using a steam distillation apparatus at 100°c for 4 hours to extract the essential oil.
- Filter the resulting essential oil through a coffee filter or cheesecloth to remove any impurities and sediment.
- Store the melissa officinalis essential oil in dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids, keeping it away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
3. Matricaria chamomilla
Chamomile essential oils helps with psoriasis because its anti-inflammatory properties can soothe itchy, red, and irritated skin.
The oil's antioxidants also help to reduce skin inflammation and promote healing, which can alleviate the symptoms of psoriasis such as thickening of the skin and formation of scales. Additionally, chamomile essential oil's antiseptic properties can help prevent infection and promote healthy skin regeneration, leading to a reduction in the appearance of psoriatic lesions.
This natural remedy can provide relief from the discomfort and embarrassment associated with this chronic condition.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in chamomile essential oils that aid with psoriasis.
- Anti-inflammatory: Chamomile essential oil's anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with psoriasis, providing relief from discomfort.
- Antioxidant: Chamomile's antioxidant properties can help protect the skin from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to psoriasis flares.
- Soothing and calming: Chamomile essential oil's calming effects can help reduce stress and anxiety, which are common triggers for psoriasis flares, and promote relaxation and improved overall well-being.
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make essential oils for psoriasis.
- Roots: Chamomile roots are rich in apigenin and other bioactive compounds that help to soothe inflammation and reduce skin irritation associated with psoriasis.
- Flowers: The flowers of the chamomile plant contain a high concentration of azulene, which has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it effective in treating psoriasis symptoms.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for psoriasis.
- Harvest dried matricaria chamomilla flowers from organic farms or local botanical gardens.
- Dehydrate the harvested flowers in a low-temperature oven at 60°f for 6 hours.
- Steam distill the dehydrated flowers using a stainless steel still and filtered water.
- Monitor the distillation process for 2 hours to ensure optimal oil yield and quality.
- Filter the resulting essential oil through a coffee filter or paper towels and store it in dark glass bottles.
4. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold essential oils helps with psoriasis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The oil's active compounds, such as calendulin and triterpenoids, penetrate deep into the skin to reduce inflammation and soothe itchiness associated with psoriasis. Additionally, pot marigold oil's antimicrobial properties help prevent bacterial infections that can exacerbate psoriasis symptoms.
By reducing redness, swelling, and scaling, pot marigold essential oils promote a healthy and clear complexion, providing relief from the discomfort and embarrassment of this chronic skin condition.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in pot marigold essential oils that aid with psoriasis.
- Anti-inflammatory: Calendula essential oil's anti-inflammatory property helps reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with Psoriasis, promoting a more comfortable skin environment.
- Wound-healing: Its wound-healing properties accelerate the natural healing process of damaged skin, reducing the appearance of psoriatic lesions and promoting healthy skin regeneration.
- Antioxidant: Calendula essential oil's antioxidant property helps neutralize free radicals that can exacerbate Psoriasis symptoms, such as redness, itching, and inflammation.
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make essential oils for psoriasis.
- Roots: Rich in sesquiterpenes, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness and swelling associated with psoriasis.
- Seeds: Contain flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that can soothe and calm the skin.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for psoriasis.
- Harvest calendula flowers at dawn when they are fully open and free of dew.
- Dry the calendula flowers using a food dehydrator set at 40°c for 24 hours.
- Combine 200g dried calendula flowers with 400ml carrier oil such as sweet almond oil in a glass jar.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 14 days, shaking daily to facilitate infusion.
- Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids and labeling the bottle.
5. Helichrysum italicum
Curry plant essential oils helps with psoriasis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The oil's main component, curcumin, has been shown to reduce inflammation in the skin, which is a key factor in psoriasis flares. Additionally, curry plant essential oil's antimicrobial properties help to combat infection-causing bacteria and yeast, common triggers for psoriasis exacerbations.
By applying this oil topically or incorporating it into a massage blend, individuals with psoriasis may experience reduced redness, itching, and scaling, leading to improved skin health and overall well-being.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in curry plant essential oils that aid with psoriasis.
- Antioxidant properties: Curry Plant essential oil's antioxidants help neutralize free radicals that contribute to Psoriasis inflammation and skin damage.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: The essential oil's anti-inflammatory compounds reduce swelling, redness, and itching associated with Psoriasis lesions, promoting healing and soothing the skin.
- Antimicrobial properties: Curry Plant essential oil's antimicrobial agents inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi that can exacerbate Psoriasis symptoms, such as infections and inflammation.
The list below shows the primary parts of curry plant used to make essential oils for psoriasis.
- Roots: The roots of the curry plant contain sesquiterpenes, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help soothe skin irritation associated with psoriasis.
- Rhyzomes: Curry plant rhyzomes are rich in terpenoids, which have been shown to possess antipruritic and anti-allergic effects, making them effective in reducing itching and inflammation caused by psoriasis.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic curry plant for psoriasis.
- Harvest fresh helichrysum italicum flowers at dawn in july and august for optimal potency and fragrance.
- Steam distill the fresh helichrysum italicum flowers using a 1:3 flower-to-water ratio for 30 minutes in a stainless steel alembic still.
- Collect the essential oil that separates from the water as the temperature cools and decant it into dark glass bottles within an hour of distillation.
- Store the helichrysum italicum essential oil in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight for at least 24 hours to allow any impurities to settle.
- Filter the helichrysum italicum essential oil through a coffee filter or fine mesh sieve to remove any remaining impurities before using or storing it.
6. Arnica montana
Mountain arnica essential oils helps with psoriasis because of its anti-inflammatory and antirheumatic properties.
The oil's natural compounds, such as helenin and sesquiterpenes, have been shown to reduce redness and swelling associated with psoriatic lesions. Additionally, the oil's emollient and moisturizing qualities help to soothe and hydrate dry, itchy skin, alleviating discomfort and promoting a more even tone.
By applying mountain arnica essential oils topically, individuals may experience reduced psoriasis symptoms and improved overall skin health.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in mountain arnica essential oils that aid with psoriasis.
- Anti-inflammatory: Mountain arnica essential oil helps reduce inflammation, which is a common symptom of psoriasis, by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and reducing swelling.
- Antioxidant: The antioxidant properties of mountain arnica essential oil help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, which can exacerbate psoriasis symptoms such as redness, itching, and scaling.
- Immune system modulator: Mountain arnica essential oil has been shown to have immunomodulatory effects, which means it can help regulate the body's immune response and reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines that contribute to psoriasis.
The list below shows the primary parts of mountain arnica used to make essential oils for psoriasis.
- Roots: Containing a high concentration of sesquiterpenes, which have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, making them effective in reducing inflammation and itching associated with psoriasis.
- Flowers: Rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, these compounds are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to soothe and calm the skin affected by psoriasis.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic mountain arnica for psoriasis.
- Harvest high-quality arnica montana flowers at dawn on a sunny day in june or july.
- Dry the arnica montana flowers in a well-ventilated area for 7-10 days to reduce moisture content.
- Steam-distill the dried arnica montana flowers using a clevenger apparatus with 20% water and 80% steam.
- Filter the resulting essential oil through a coffee filter or paper towel to remove impurities and sediment.
- Transfer the filtered essential oil to dark glass bottles, store in a cool place, and allow to mature for at least 6 weeks before use.
7. Hypericum perforatum
St John's Wort essential oils helps with psoriasis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The oil has been traditionally used to soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness and inflammation associated with psoriasis. Its ability to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes also helps to reduce the severity of symptoms.
Additionally, St John's Wort oil is believed to stimulate collagen synthesis, promoting healthy skin regeneration and potentially improving skin elasticity, making it a valuable natural remedy for managing psoriasis symptoms.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in st john's wort essential oils that aid with psoriasis.
- Antioxidant properties: St John's Wort essential oil has potent antioxidant effects, which help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with psoriasis, thereby promoting skin health.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: The oil's anti-inflammatory compounds, such as hyperforin and adhyperforin, work to calm and soothe inflamed skin, reducing redness, swelling, and itching common in psoriasis.
- Antibacterial properties: St John's Wort essential oil has antibacterial effects against certain bacteria that can contribute to psoriasis, such as Staphylococcus aureus, which helps prevent infection and promotes wound healing.
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make essential oils for psoriasis.
- Roots: The roots are rich in bioactive compounds, such as hyperforin and hypericin, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making them effective in treating psoriatic skin conditions.
- Flowers: The flowers of St John's Wort contain flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and improve wound healing, making them beneficial for treating psoriasis symptoms.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for psoriasis.
- Harvest fresh st john's wort flowers and leaves at dawn or just before sunset when they are most potent.
- Dry the plant material by spreading it out in a single layer on paper bags or brown paper for two weeks.
- Steam distill 250g of dried st john's wort using 500ml of water at a temperature of 100°c for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- Collect the obtained essential oil and mix it with 10% jojoba oil as a carrier to stabilize its composition.
- Store the final product in dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids, away from direct sunlight, heat, and children for up to six months.
8. Gentiana lutea
Yellow gentian essential oils helps with psoriasis because it has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to reduce redness, swelling, and irritation associated with the condition.
The oil's antimicrobial properties also inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi that can exacerbate psoriasis symptoms. Additionally, yellow gentian essential oils can help to improve skin elasticity and firmness, reducing the appearance of plaques and scaling.
Overall, incorporating yellow gentian essential oils into a skincare routine may provide relief from psoriasis symptoms and promote healthier-looking skin.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in yellow gentian essential oils that aid with psoriasis.
- Antioxidant properties: Yellow gentian essential oil helps combat free radicals, which can contribute to skin inflammation and damage associated with psoriasis.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: The oil's anti-inflammatory compounds may help reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with psoriasis by blocking the production of pro-inflammatory molecules.
- Immunomodulatory properties: Yellow gentian essential oil has been shown to modulate the immune response, which can help regulate an overactive immune system that contributes to psoriasis symptoms.
The list below shows the primary parts of yellow gentian used to make essential oils for psoriasis.
- Roots: Rich in bioactive compounds that help soothe and calm inflammation associated with psoriasis.
- Barks: Contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that aid in reducing redness and irritation caused by psoriasis.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yellow gentian for psoriasis.
- Harvest fresh gentiana lutea leaves and stems in early morning for maximum potency.
- Dry the plant material in a warm dark place or using a food dehydrator at 35°c for 7-10 days.
- Crush dried gentiana lutea into small pieces and combine with carrier oil such as coconut or sweet almond oil in a 1:4 ratio.
- Steep mixture in a glass jar for 2 weeks, shaking daily, to allow for optimal extraction of beneficial compounds.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter and discard solids, resulting in a fragrant and therapeutic essential oil blend.
9. Symphytum officinale
Comfrey essential oils helps with psoriasis because of its anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative properties.
The oil's constituents, such as allantoin and rosmarinic acid, have been shown to reduce inflammation and itching associated with the condition. Additionally, comfrey's wound-healing properties can help soothe and calm irritated skin, promoting a reduction in redness and scaling.
By reducing inflammation and promoting healing, comfrey essential oils may help alleviate symptoms of psoriasis, providing relief for individuals affected by this chronic skin condition.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in comfrey essential oils that aid with psoriasis.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Comfrey essential oil's anti-inflammatory compounds help to reduce redness, swelling, and pain associated with psoriatic skin lesions.
- Antioxidant properties: Comfrey essential oil's high antioxidant content helps to neutralize free radicals, which can contribute to inflammation and cell damage in psoriasis-prone skin.
- Wound-healing properties: Comfrey essential oil's allantoin content promotes collagen synthesis, tissue repair, and wound closure, making it beneficial for managing psoriatic skin lesions and reducing scarring.
The list below shows the primary parts of comfrey used to make essential oils for psoriasis.
- Roots: Comfrey roots are rich in allantoin, a natural compound that accelerates skin regeneration and helps reduce inflammation associated with psoriasis.
- Seeds: Comfrey seeds contain fatty acids and other nutrients that help soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness and itching common in psoriasis.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic comfrey for psoriasis.
- Harvest fresh symphytum officinale leaves in early morning or evening when dew is still present.
- Wash the harvested leaves thoroughly with distilled water and mild soap solution three times.
- Steam distill 50 grams of dried symphytum officinale leaves with 1000 milliliters of water for 4 hours.
- Separate the resulting essential oil from the distillation residue using a separating funnel within 30 minutes.
- Store the extracted symphytum officinale essential oil in dark glass bottles at room temperature away from direct sunlight.
10. Plantago major
Plantain essential oils helps with psoriasis because of its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties.
The oil's active compounds, such as allantoin and mucilage, soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness and inflammation associated with psoriasis.
Additionally, plantain oil's ability to reduce oxidative stress and promote collagen production can help to improve skin elasticity and firmness, while its antimicrobial properties prevent bacterial and fungal infections that can exacerbate psoriasis symptoms.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in plantain essential oils that aid with psoriasis.
- Anti-inflammatory property: Plantain essential oil has been shown to reduce inflammation, which is a key factor in exacerbating psoriasis symptoms, helping to soothe and calm affected skin.
- Antioxidant property: Plantain essential oil's antioxidant properties help protect the skin from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to the development of psoriasis lesions.
- Anti-itching and analgesic property: The plantain essential oil's anti-itching and analgesic properties help alleviate discomfort, itching, and pain associated with psoriasis, making it a valuable natural remedy for symptom relief.
The list below shows the primary parts of plantain used to make essential oils for psoriasis.
- Roots: The roots of the plantain plant contain a high concentration of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, making them ideal for soothing and calming the skin.
- Barks: The barks of the plantain plant have been traditionally used to treat skin conditions, including psoriasis, due to their ability to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic plantain for psoriasis.
- Harvest fresh plantago major leaves in early morning when dew is still present and rinse with distilled water.
- Combine 200g of cleaned and chopped plantago major leaves with 400ml of carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil.
- Steep the mixture for 6-8 hours or overnight at room temperature allowing for gentle maceration process.
- Filter the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another container discarding solids and reserve the infused oil.
- Allow the infused oil to sit for 24 hours before decanting and storing in dark glass bottles with tight lids.
How to best treat psoriasis with herbal essential oils?
The best way to treat psoriasis with herbal essential oils is to blend lavender oil with tea tree oil and apply topically to affected areas.
This combination helps reduce inflammation, soothes itching, and promotes healing. Additionally, adding a few drops of chamomile oil can further calm the skin and promote relaxation.
Apply twice daily for optimal results.
What ailments similar to psoriasis are treated with herbal essential oils?
Ailments similar to psoriasis that are treated with herbal essential oils are eczema, dermatitis, and acne/essential-oils.html">acne.
Essential oils like lavender, tea tree, and chamomile have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness and inflammation.
Oils such as frankincense and geranium can also promote healing and reduce scarring, while bergamot oil's antifungal properties may help combat fungal acne.