These scaly patches are most often found on the knees, scalps and elbows. While it is not life-threatening, psoriasis can be irritating and embarrassing for those who suffer from the condition.
The most common form of psoriasis is plaque psoriasis. Researchers think that the condition is most often caused by an immune response. There are several treatments for psoriasis, and they work to varying degrees. These treatments, however, do not cure the condition.
Psoriasis is hard to treat because it can flare up unpredictably after periods of remission. For example, there are people whose flare ups happen when they have other illnesses like strep throat, and others who experience psoriasis flare ups when they are emotionally overwhelmed.
There are essential oils that can help treat this skin condition. Essential oils for psoriasis include tea tree oil, lavender oil, thyme, and geranium oil. Some of these oils help because of their antiseptic properties, while others work as moisturizers or anti-inflammatory agents.
Warning! Undiluted essential oils are very strong and should not be applied directly to the skin.
How to Use Essential Oils to Treat Psoriasis
Essential oils can be used in several ways to help soothe inflamed skin caused by psoriasis. They can be mixed with a carrier oil like almond or jojoba and applied as needed, or they can be poured with epsom salts into your bath water for a soothing soak. Most treatments only require a few drops of essential oils since they are concentrated.One combination that many have found helpful for relieving psoriasis is a mixture of three drops of lavender essential oil, three drops of frankincense and one teaspoon of coconut milk. Simply apply it to the affected areas to sooth inflammation and itching.
Many people also find a moisturizing bath soothing for psoriasis flareups. Mix one cup of oats, half a cup of Dead Sea salt, a teaspoon of olive oil, 4 drops of lavender oil, 1 teaspoon of jojoba oil, 4 drops of bergamot, and 2 drops of German chamomile.
Place this mixture in a thin sock and place the sock in a tub of warm water. Squeeze the sock periodically while you soak to make sure that the goat milk is released and the salts dissolve. You can use this bath twice a week.
While essential oils are generally considered safe, use caution when using them to treat psoriasis in children, pregnant women and people with high blood pressure. Always ask your health care practitioner before using any treatment as some oils may interfere with certain medications.
Additional Help For Treating Psoriasis
Because psoriasis seems to have autoimmune factors involved in flareups, it is important to maintain your immune system health in addition to whatever external treatments you use. That means eating a balanced, healthy diet, getting enough rest and enough (but not too much) sunlight. Preventing flareups also means making sure that you let your doctors know that you have psoriasis so that they can warn you if any new medications you might be prescribed can cause symptoms.
Some people report that certain foods, like dairy and gluten, have caused their skin to become inflamed. If you think that your diet might be increasing your flareups, try a rotational fast. This means that for about a week at a time, you eliminate groups of foods and track your symptoms during that time. One week, you stop eating dairy. The next week, grains. The following week, eliminate fruit. During this fast, you also eliminate sweets and alcohol from your diet. Once you see how your body reacts when you stop eating these foods, incorporate them back one at a time. If your flareups stop while on the fast, then begin again when you bring certain foods back, then you can link these foods with some of your symptoms.
Essential oils for psoriasis are among several natural treatments for the condition. Some people have found success in reducing flareups from using them in conjunction with supplements like fish oil, vitamin D3, milk thistle and probiotics taken daily. Humidifiers and daily sun exposure are also helpful for treating psoriasis.
Chart Showing How To Use Essential Oils for Psoriasis
| Essential Oil | How Much | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lavender | Two to three drops | Can be used with carrier oils as a rub or in a soothing bath |
| Tea Tree Oil | One or two drops | Use topically in a carrier oil. Do not use in children under 6 |
| Thyme | One or two drops | Use with carrier oil and rub on skin. Do not use if you are pregnant or have high blood pressure. |
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