Herbs for soothing Psoriasis

Herbs and other natural medicines have been in use since the beginning of time in treating ailments and in the recent times, natural medicines have become more popular owing to the harsh side-effects of modern medicines. Psoriasis is an inflammatory health condition wherein the individual develops scaly patches of skin which are red in color. Though there is no permanent cure for psoriasis, there are natural remedies and herbs that are capable of managing the symptoms of psoriasis by reducing the inflammation or slowing down the skin cell growth.

Below are some herbs that have been found effective in soothing the symptoms of psoriasis.

• A flowering plant from the mahonia shrub, Mahoniaaquifolium (also known as Oregon grape) has the potential to soothe inflammatory diseases including psoriasis and has been recognized by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) as one of the best herbal solutions for dealing with psoriasis. It is rich in berberine which makes it capable of reducing the inflammation caused by psoriasis. Moreover, with the anti-proliferative capabilities, it can help in controlling the rapid growth of skin cells which is amajor symptom of psoriasis.
• Also known as Quing Dai, the traditional Chinese herbal medicine of Indigo naturalis was used in dealing with skin conditions for centuries. It is extracted from a variety of different plants, including Baphicacanthuscusia. There have been studies that prove the effectiveness of this herbal medicine in dealing with psoriasis.
• Although not as effective as Mahoniaaquifolium and Indigo naturalis, Aloe Vera is beneficial for dry skin and has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties which can help in soothing various skin conditions.

Other natural treatments:

Though not scientifically proved or tested, many natural treatments including neem, extracts of sweet whey, capsaicin and curcumin have been traditionally used in soothing down the symptoms of Psoriasis.

Although all the above have used in the treatment of Psoriasis, it is always suggested that one consults a learned physician before trying out any of the aforementioned remedies.