Control Your Psoriasis and Reduce Flare-ups with Home Remedies

Psoriasis might not have a cure, but that doesn't mean it has to ruin your life. There are many steps that you can take to help control your psoriasis. For the best results, consider using natural remedies and a healthy lifestyle along with your doctor-prescribed treatments.

The most common way to control your psoriasis is to use an ointment or topical cream. While some of these are over-the-counter, many are prescribed by your doctor. Dovonex, salicyclic acid, tar, and anthralin are all topical treatments.

One of the most common medications used to control your psoriasis is corticosteroids. They reduce swelling with their anti-inflammatory properties. Like any medications, they may have side effects, so discuss them with your doctor if you have any questions or experience any unusual reactions.

Phototherapy, or ultraviolet light therapy is another method that is especially good for extensive cases. Artificial ultraviolet light B is used in phototherapy.

Although treatment from your doctor is important, don't forget home remedies that can help you control your psoriasis. This can be as simple as the diet you eat. A healthy diet high in vegetables and low in meat and dairy is important. Supplement your diet with EFAs (essential fatty acids) that can be found in flax seed oil or fish oil.

Alternative therapies, such as acupuncture, qigong, or reflexology, are used by many people to help control psoriasis. These treatments can be useful, but should not replace your doctor's recommendations.

Natural topical remedies from your kitchen pantry can also be used. These include apple cider vinegar, which can be applied to the scalp or the nails. Either vegetable or olive oil can be added your bath to reduce itching. A baking soda and water mixture can be made and applied directly to the itching patches of skin with a washcloth.

Stress can aggravate the symptoms of psoriasis, so when you control your stress you are also working to control your psoriasis. Take a yoga class at the gym or learn mediation and breathing exercises to help reduce your stress level.

Although there might not be a cure for psoriasis, there are many treatments available to help control it. Take an active role in your own health and work closely with your doctor and others to control your psoriasis.