Supplements to Cure Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic condition of the skin that affects the life of skin cells. It is a disease of the immune system that causes thick, red and scaly patches to form on the surface of the skin. Psoriasis can occur on any part of the body and can sometimes be associated with heart disease, diabetes or depression. Psoriasis can be triggered by medications, stress and other skin conditions.

Traditional Medical Treatments for Psoriasis

Traditional medical treatments for psoriasis include light therapy, oral medications and topical medications. These treatments may be taken in combination or alone depending on the symptoms and the extent to which the patient is suffering from psoriasis. While other treatments such as supplements can be used in the treatment of psoriasis, seeing a physician first is strongly recommended, as the condition if often associated with other serious health problems.

Supplements for Psoriasis

Unfortunately, curing psoriasis is not a possibility. It is a chronic condition that can occur repeatedly throughout the patient's life. However, there are some treatment options useful for alleviating some of the symptoms of psoriasis. Fish oil capsules containing omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the inflammation associated with psoriasis. Take three grams or less of fish oil daily to reduce inflammation.

Evening primrose oil is sometimes used for the treatment of psoriasis. Oil is extracted from seeds and then placed in capsules. To treat psoriasis, divide four to eight grams of evening primrose oil into several small doses and take throughout the day.

Milk thistle is another treatment many people have found helpful in treatments for psoriasis. Take milk thistle capsules in doses of 160 to 600 mg as several small doses throughout the day; be sure to check the bottle and type of supplement for proper dosing information.

Shark cartilage supplements have been proven to help reduce inflammation from psoriasis. Purchase shark cartilage powder or capsules and take 200 to 2,000 mg per kilogram of body weight spread over two to three times daily to treat psoriasis.

Synthetic forms of vitamin A called retinols are also useful in the treatment of psoriasis. (Topical applications are also available.) Doses vary widely according to age, gender and condition. Carefully follow dosing directions on the label, as too much vitamin A can be toxic and dangerous.

Herbal Topical Applications

Psoriasis patients have found that oil of oregano can help control flareups. To treat psoriasis with oregano oil, apply one to two drops to the affected area and gently rub into skin. Use sparingly and apply only a thin coat to the skin's surface.

Aloe vera gel from a bottle or fresh from a plant can also work with corticosteroids to enhance their positive effects. Squeeze a few drops of aloe on the affected area alone or with steroid cream to speed healing.