Herb Treatment for Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a common skin ailment that disrupts the natural skin cell life cycle, according to the Mayo Clinic. This chronic disease causes skin cells to develop rapidly on the skin surface. This over-development of skin cells causes red patches of skin that are itchy and sometimes turn into irritated scales. While there is no cure for psoriasis, there are herbal treatments that can help reduce the symptoms and severity of this skin condition.

Aloe Vera

• Aloe Vera is a common treatment for skin conditions. This herb has been exploited for centuries for its medicinal qualities, according to the University of Maryland's Medical Center. Commonly, aloe is used to treat sunburns, inflammation as well as genital herpes. The main active compounds within aloe are glycoproteins and polysaccharides. When these compounds are applied topically to the skin, they immediately begin to reduce inflammation and pain that is associated with psoriasis. The polysaccharides promote skin repair and growth as well as stimulating the immune system response to bacteria. The University of Maryland states aloe is shown to reduce inflammation better than 1 percent hydrocortisone cream. By applying aloe to psoriasis sores, it will moisturize and reduce inflammation that is associated with this condition. To utilize this treatment, purchase pure Aloe Vera gel at any health food store, or purchase an aloe plant to use the fresh gel found within its leaves. Apply this gel liberally to the affected areas of the skin up to three times per day. Consult your physician before starting an aloe treatment program to ensure its safety.

Capsaicin Cream (Cayenne)

• Capsaicin is the main active ingredient within cayenne. According to the University of Maryland, cayenne has been used for medicinal qualities, as well as for flavoring to food, for millennia. This herb is commonly known for its hot taste, which is provided by the compound capsaicin. When this substance is applied directly to the skin, it immediately begins to relieve pain caused by arthritis, nerve damage caused by diabetes and psoriasis, according to the University of Maryland. This herb works by temporarily hindering the transfer of the chemical that is responsible for informing the brain of pain, according to the University of Michigan Health Systems. The University of Michigan has deemed capsaicin as reliable and substantial scientific evidence in treating the pain and other symptoms of psoriasis. To utilize this substance to treat psoriasis pain and inflammation, purchase a topical cream that contain up to 0.075 percent capsaicin. The University of Maryland suggests that the minimum amount of capsaicin within a cream is 0.025 percent. Apply a liberal amount directly to the affected areas on the skin up to four times per day. Do not be alarmed if the pain within this area is increased, as this herb stimulates the area prior to relieving pain. If further skin irritation occurs, reduce the use of this cream to once per day or less frequently as directed by your physician.