What Is Psoriasis And What Are Its Causes
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory condition that causes raised itchy plaques, flakes, and scales on the skin. It is not contagious and the cause is unknown. However, certain factors can trigger the symptoms and cause flare-ups, which may last for weeks or even months. Here are some of the triggers you should look out for:
- Stress: Stressful events may cause psoriatic flare-ups and increase the lesions . You can relieve stress by trying relaxation techniques and meditation and working with a therapist.
- Skin Injuries: The Koebner phenomenon states that a skin injury or trauma in patients with psoriasis may trigger new psoriatic lesions and inflammations. For instance, injuries like scratches, incisions, viral infections, and radiation exposure may cause psoriasis flare-ups .
- Medical Conditions: Medical conditions like depression and cardiometabolic syndromes can affect the immune system and cause psoriatic flare-ups. You may experience redness, itchy plaques, lesions, and scaling. Other existing conditions like cardiovascular diseases, non-Hodgkins lymphoma, diabetes, and arthritis may also cause flare-ups ,. Some medications, like beta-blockers, synthetic antimalarials, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs , lithium, and tetracyclines, used to treat various conditions may trigger flare-ups.
- Environmental Factors: Extreme weather conditions and factors like humidity and sunlight may cause flare-ups .
Clary Sage Essential Oil
Clary sage oil has an herbaceous, woody yet fruity scent and is rich in ant inflammatory properties. It has been particularly used for fighting anxiety but it also provides relaxation and soothing for inflamed, red and itchy psoriasis on the skin. It helps in the proper rejuvenation and regeneration of skin and helps to heal damaged skin cells.
Precautions To Take While Using Essential Oils For Psoriasis
- It is always advised to do a patch test first before you actually apply the diluted essential oil to the actual affected area. This will enable you to know whether the oil suits your skin well.
- Never ever use an essential oil before diluting it as such oils are extremely potent. Hence, these should always be diluted with the help of a carrier oil, a lotion or something similar.
- It is dangerous to ingest essential oils as they are only meant for topical application.
- If you are allergic to any of these essential oils, it is best that you do not use them.
- You should consult a doctor before using an essential oil if you are pregnant, have diabetes, heart issues or any serious health condition.
- Essential oils for psoriasis work as a wonderful remedy provided that you use them regularly and use them in moderation.
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Essential Oils For Whipped Body Butter
Below are some of my favorite essential oils to use in this homemade body butter recipe:
This whipped homemade body butter is versatile! Add different essential oils to each batch. Essential oils are natural and much healthier than using synthetic fragrances.
- Peppermint . Youll smell like a candy cane! Great for the holidays
- Frankincense& Lavender , this mix promotes beautiful skin!
- Vanilla& Lavender , this mix is very relaxing!
- Grapefruit& Lime . This smells AMAZING!! Just be careful not to wear this outside since citrus oils are photosensitive. Other citrus oils like wild orange and lemon are wonderful too!
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Eucalyptus Essential Oil For Psoriasis
The essential oil of eucalyptus boosts the immune system and reduces inflammation. It also hastens skin healing by promoting cell repair. It can also assist in preventing and neutralizing scarring, which is very useful for psoriasis.
In addition, the natural relaxing and calming characteristics of eucalyptus essential oil alleviate psoriasis-related inflammation and redness. It also relieves the discomfort and inflammation caused by the flare-up of psoriasis spots.
Rosemary Oil For Psoriasis
There are many uses for rosemary essential oil, including moisturizing the scalp, helping prevent dandruff, and possibly even stimulating hair growth. Scientific studies show that rosemary essential oils antimicrobial properties can help reduce flaking while maintaining a healthy scalp, making it an excellent choice for scalp psoriasis home remedies.
Try adding 5 drops of rosemary oil to jojoba oil and massage into the scalp, or simply add into your shampoo. Using essential oils for scalp psoriasis may be a more affordable and convenient option compared to expensive, over-the-counter products.
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Frankincense Essential Oil For Psoriasis
Frankincense essential oil contains antiseptic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory qualities that can help relieve psoriasis.
It can also aid in cell healing, immune system stimulation, and hormone balancing. It is an excellent alternative for mending psoriasis patches’ chapped, flaky, and cracked skin. Frankincense essential oil is also helpful for sensitive skin.
Essential Oils As A Natural Remedy
Essential oils are highly concentrated plant compounds extracted from various plant and tree sources, including bark, roots, leaves, stems, flowers, nuts, and even fruit.
EOs contain an abundant amount of active compounds that help support the bodys healing processes.
Aromatherapy is the therapeutic application of EOs.
Research shows EOs offer many health benefits that can support the management of psoriasis symptoms:
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Tea Tree For The Scalp
Psoriasis doesnt only show up on the face and other visible areas of the body. The scalp is also susceptible. This recipe is designed for that specific area breakout.
Ingredients:
- 3 drops oregano
Directions:
Mix all of the ingredients into the applicator bottle. Shake well and begin to apply as you massage it into your scalp with your fingers. Use the spout of the bottle to part your hair.
Essential Oil Soothing Spray For Eczema
You can easily make a cooling spray that you can use whenever you need relief from dry skin that causes itching and irritation.
How to use:
- Pour 1 cup distilled water in a spray bottle and add 10-15 drops lavender oil.
- Shake well before each application and spray the remedy on the itchy inflamed skin for quick relief from the effects on an eczema flare-up.
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Argan Oil For Psoriasis
Argan oil is a carrier oil, not an essential oil. Its rich in vitamin E, which is hydrating to the skin. It may also improve your skins metabolism, reduce inflammation, and protect your skin from the sun.
Argan oil may work on psoriasis because its both anti-inflammatory and antiseptic. This means that the oil helps to reduce redness, dryness, swelling, and itchiness.
Note that culinary and cosmetic argan oils are not the same thing. You shouldnt ingest cosmetic argan oil. Allergic reactions are rare, and you should discontinue use if you experience discomfort.
Because argan oil isnt an essential oil, it can be applied directly to the skin or mixed with essential oils for a blend of results.
anthelmintic properties . It can help with a range of skin issues, from ones caused by psoriasis to ones caused by parasites.
It helps to soothe any inflammation while also speeding up the skins healing process. Black seed oil is an excellent moisturizer and can even reduce scale thickness.
Black seeds may slow blood clotting and lower blood pressure, so people with clotting disorders, diabetes, or low blood pressure should speak with a doctor before use. Pregnant women should also avoid using black seed oil. Black seed oil may also have a sedative effect.
Black seed oil is a carrier oil. You can apply black seed oil directly to the skin or mix it with an essential oil before application. This method should help soothe itch and moisturize skin.
How Do You Mix Essential Oils For Psoriasis
To use the essential oils, mix them with carrier oils, such as jojoba, sweet almond, carrot, and borage oils, and then apply to the affected area. Do not use an essential oil without diluting it. For diluting it with carrier oils, follow these guidelines:
- 2.5% Dilution: Mix 15 drops of essential oil per 2 tablespoons of carrier oil.
- 3% Dilution: Mix 20 drops of essential oil per 2 tablespoons of carrier oil.
- 10% Dilution: Mix 60 drops of essential oil per 2 tablespoons of carrier oil.
Mix the essential oil with the carrier oil and then massage the blend on the affected area. Leave it on overnight or for as long as possible. Repeat the treatment regularly until the symptoms are gone.
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Can You Use Flaxseed Oil For Psoriasis Treatment
Flaxseed oil can be used for the treatment of psoriasis because it is a rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids, and it is demonstrated that Omega-3 fatty acid helps decrease symptoms of psoriasis.
Flaxseed oil or flaxseeds is one of the concentrated sources of plant-based Omega-3 fatty acids, and its anti-inflammatory properties help treat skin conditions such as psoriasis.
Many people on online forums have noticed a marked improvement in their psoriasis condition after using flaxseed oil as a part of their diet.
One capsule of flaxseed oil twice a day is a generally suggested dose for the treatment of psoriasis.
Cream To Battle Psoriasis
What I love about this is you get to pick the oils you prefer from the following helichrysum, thyme, bergamot, cedarwood, lavender, melaleuca/tea tree, patchouli,Roman chamomile, , and rosemary. Each of them battles psoriasis in their own way.
Ingredients & Materials:
- 10 drops of favorite essential oils
- 2 teaspoons of coconut oil
- Jar or container
Directions:
Put the coconut oil in your chosen container and then add your oils. Mix well and store in a cool, dry place. Use for treatment and prevention of symptoms.
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Best Natural: Reverie Cake Restorative Scalp Tonic
For those who want to keep their beauty routine as clean as possible, this natural formula is a great choice. The leave-in is more akin to a serum-oil hybrid and basically offers any and every possible scalp benefit you could think of. It balances out oil production, hydrates, and soothes, but also touts ingredients such as apple stem cells to keep hair follicles healthy and youthful. As if that werent enough, it also has ingredients known for helping to maintain scalp pH while protecting against bacteria and fungus.
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Is Rosehip Oil Good For Psoriasis
Rosehip oil can be good for psoriasis since it soothes itchy, dry, and flaking skin in conditions like psoriasis.
Along with the antioxidant effect of Vitamin E, rosehip oil also has anti-inflammatory properties which can offer further relief from the symptoms of psoriasis.
Rosehip oil is a dry oil and not oily like other essential oils. In addition, it is well absorbed by the skin. It is usually mixed with other carrier oils before application. Rosehip oil can be applied to the affected area up to twice a day.
The oil should be stored in a cool, dry place or in a refrigerator to extend its shelf life.
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Other Home Remedies For Psoriasis
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is full of raw enzymes and healthy bacteria. Soaking or rinsing with ACV can relieve the itching sensation associated with psoriasis. Due to its acidity content, consistent or heavy use is best avoided.
2. Salt Bath
Soaking in lukewarm bath water mixed with Dead Sea or Epsom salt can temporarily relieve itching and dryness associated with psoriasis.
3. Hydration
Keeping the skin hydrated with moisturizers will help dramatically in removing plaques and speeding up healing. It is best to use a natural moisturizer and to apply it on you skin when it begins to feel dry.
4. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera can be used to nourish dry skin, making it useful for psoriasis patients. When applied to the effected are, aloe vera can significantly reduce redness and minimize scaling.
5. Sunlight
Exposure to sunlight is one way to get Vitamin D which has great benefits for your skin. It is important to consider the UV radiation and to limit your exposure, as well as apply sunscreen to protect unaffected skin.
Coconut Oil For Psoriasis
Coconut oil isnt considered an essential oil. But it has anti-inflammatory properties that may help ease psoriasis pain. Its widely regarded as a gentle ingredient. Because of this, its often recommended as a treatment for scalp psoriasis. The oil moisturizes the skin and scales.
When used alone, coconut oil doesnt typically cause any side effects. The oil is routinely used as a cooking ingredient and is safe for consumption. It can be taken internally or applied externally with few, if any, interactions. Coconut oil is often used as a carrier oil for essential oils. Do not consume coconut oil if there are any essential oils added.
You can use coconut oil in several ways. Try ingesting up to two tablespoons of virgin coconut oil daily. The lauric acid substance inside may block bacteria and viruses from entering your body. You can also apply virgin coconut oil liberally to the affected areas. It may be more effective if you put it on your skin directly after bathing.
If you have pain, itching, or other unusual symptoms after using coconut oil, stop using it and speak with your doctor. Learn more about coconut oil and psoriasis.
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What Is The Best Oil For Dry Scalp
A dry scalp can not only lead to skin and hair problems like dandruff and hair loss, but also cause excessive itching and soreness that can leave you in pain. A dry scalp can be caused due to a number of factors, right from genetics to a change of weather. But no matter the reason, you can treat this scalp condition with the right oil massage!
Read on to know more about the causes of a dry scalp and how to pick a suitable oil for your scalp.
About Psoriasis And Essential Oils For Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a common skin condition where a persons skin cells replicate too quickly. With nowhere to go, new skin cells accumulate under the skins surface. Psoriasis is thought to affect more than three percent of the U.S. population, or more than 5 million American adults at any given time. Relief from this condition can come in the form of essential oils for psoriasis.
Essential oils can be used as a complementary therapy. While much of the evidence is anecdotal, there is also some research that supports essential oils for psoriasis.
The buildup of cells associated with psoriasis creates patches of swollen and red skin with silvery or whitish scales. They can appear anywhere on the body, but most often develop on the elbows, knees, buttocks, scalp, feet, neck, face, hands, and backs of the wrists.
Other psoriasis symptoms include joint pain, inflammation, fatigue, impaired immune function, brain fog, allergies, and digestive complaints.
This article will focus on 15 specific essential oils for psoriasis treatment, and how to use them. We will also detail a few risks associated with essential oils for psoriasis.
Lets get started
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Oregano Essential Oil For Psoriasis
Because it is so effective at healing bacterial, fungal, and viral diseases, oregano is sometimes referred to as an “antibiotic from nature.”
However, the most significant antimicrobial aromatherapy essential oil for treating many types of psoriasis is oregano essential oil. Its phenol content, responsible for the highest antibacterial action, performs incredibly well in relieving the pain and suffering produced by psoriasis flare-ups.
Essential Oils For Eczema And Psoriasis
Damage to the skin, including lesions caused by psoriasis or non-infectious skin diseases such as eczema, can create weak points for bacteria to enter causing infections. Preventing infection and calming inflammation are ideal ways which essential oils are especially suited to help improve these conditions. There are several essential oils which can be used to reduce inflammation while also cleansing the skin.
Below we have listed a few oils to get you started in your search for what works best for you. Its also important to keep in mind that oils are often blended together to create a synergistic effect. You can purchase oils which are pre-blended for specific purposes, or you can choose to try blending oils you, personally enjoy. Many people find experimenting with essential oils a fun, informative, and effective form of self-care.
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How To Make Whipped Body Butter
Ingredients: You will need 1/3 cup coconut oil, 1/3 cup shea butter, 1/3 cup cocoa butter wafers, 1/3 cup jojoba oil, 2 tsp arrowroot powder, and essential oils.
To make body butter, you will melt the coconut oil, cocoa butter, and cup shea butter in a double boiler or saucepan over low heat. If a double boiler isnt available, a large pyrex measuring cup will work instead.
Next, remove the melted cocoa butter and oils from the heat and mix in the jojoba oil and essential oils. Mix well to incorporate the essential oils.
Pour the mixture into a large kitchen aid bowl and place in the refrigerator. Chill until its solid, about two hours. Alternatively, you can use the freezer to cool the oils.
Once the mixture is solid, remove the bowl from the fridge, place the bowl into the kitchen aid, and whip the body butter . Add arrowroot powder and continue to beat until the body butter is light and airy. Note: You can make whipped chocolate body butter by adding two tablespoon of cocoa powder to this body butter.
Finally, scoop the body butter into a glass jar and store it in a cool, dry place.