Cayenne (Capsicum frutescens). The capsaicin is the active substance in cayenne. It would have the ability to reduce inflammation and prevent the dilation of blood vessels in the epidermis. Applications of a capsaicin-based cream seem to relieve itching caused by psoriasis^3,4,28.

Dosage

Apply to affected areas, up to 4 times a day, a cream, lotion or ointment containing 0,025% to 0,075% capsaicin. It often takes 14 days of treatment before the full therapeutic effect is felt.

Caution

Consult our Cayenne file to know the precautions to be taken.

 Holly leaf mahonia (Mahonia aquifolium). The medicinal properties of the roots and bark of this shrub have long been known. Today anti-inflammatory ointments are made from mahonia. Several trials suggest that applying such an ointment relieves symptoms of mild to moderate psoriasis^6,26.

 Aloe (Aloe vera). Aloe gel is a viscous liquid extracted from the heart of the large leaves of the plant (not to be confused with the latex which is taken from the outer part of the leaves). It has emollient properties and is often used in dermatology. The few published studies have given contradictory results, but overall more positive than negative^5,39,40.

 Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are recognized for their anti-inflammatory action. A few clinical studies have been done with fish oil supplements, with conflicting results however.^7-12 . Several health professionals, including those at the Mayo Clinic in the United States, believe that it is still worth trying this treatment as an adjuvant.²⁹.

In addition, taking marine lecithin supplements (marine phospholipids extracted from wild fish, rich in omega-3) has been tested in people with Psoriasis during 2 preliminary studies carried out by a French dermatologist^35,36. The subjects had stopped all medical treatment (except emollients). After 3 months of treatment, a decrease in symptoms was observed. After 6 months, plaque healing has occurred in the vast majority of subjects. Marine lecithin is better digested than omega-3 in the form of fish oils, says the author of this research.

 Hydrotherapy (balneotherapy). Some studies^30-32 tend to demonstrate the beneficial effect of spa treatments in the treatment of psoriasis, but more research is needed to be able to rule on its effectiveness. The presence in the water of different minerals and trace elements seems to be a factor that significantly determines the results. The heavily mineralized waters of the Dead Sea in Israel have such a reputation that people come from all over the world to treat skin conditions, including psoriasis. The mechanical and thermal effects of hydrotherapy could also explain this beneficial effect.^33,34. They would very often make it possible to limit the use of drugs.

 German chamomile (Recycled matrix). Commission E recognizes the effectiveness of German chamomile flowers in relieving skin inflammation. Chamomile preparations are widely used in Europe to treat psoriasis, eczema, dry skin and irritation. This plant exerts an anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic action.

Dosage

Consult our German Chamomile sheet.

 Vinegar. Vinegar is traditionally used to soothe the itching sometimes caused by psoriasis.

Dosage

Apply to affected areas, using a tampon²⁵.

 Anti-inflammatory diet. The American doctor Andrew Weil recommends to favor a diet whose effects are anti-inflammatory¹⁹. This diet is rich in fruits and vegetables and favors whole grains. For more information, see our Dr Weil fact sheet: the anti-inflammatory diet.

 Hypnothérapie. Researchers have already emphasized the curative effect of hypnotherapy on maladies de la peau, and especially on psoriasis¹⁴. The D^r Andrew Weil thinks hypnotherapy is worth a try¹⁹. According to him, skin problems seem receptive to suggestions made by hypnosis. For now, only preliminary studies are available to support its effectiveness.

 Naturopathy. The suggested approach is based on the assumption that the lining of the intestines of people with psoriasis has a higher than normal permeability. Antigens would pass through the intestinal wall when they should not. They would then trigger immune reactions in the skin. In naturopathy, we therefore give an important role to food and digestion in the therapeutic approach of psoriasis. According to the American naturopath JE Pizzorno, it is important to know if the affected person has a digestive problem, if they have food sensitivities, if they are secreting enough digestive enzymes and if their liver is functioning well. Gluten intolerance could sometimes be associated with psoriasis, as several studies suggest^41,42,27. In those affected, not eating gluten could therefore relieve symptoms. Consult a trained naturopath or nutritionist.

 Relaxation and stress management. It is recognized that high stress plays a role in the onset or exacerbation of psoriasis flare-ups. Various approaches help to relax, such as breathing exercises, meditation, visualization or biofeedback^1,2,19. In 1998, a study was carried out on 37 people who were undergoing phototherapy or photochemotherapy treatment for psoriasis. A rapid meditation technique (based on listening to instructions recorded on audio cassettes) accompanying the treatment resulted in significantly faster healing¹³.