7 essential oils for psoriasis that will relieve symptoms

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that can turn your skin red, and leave you with raised skin lesions, itching and burning. You can keep the condition under control by using creams and lotions recommended by your doctor. Exposure to ultraviolet light may also be part of your treatment plan. If you want to add other products to your skin care routine, include essential oils. You can find relief by using essential oils for psoriasis. Oils such as tea tree oil, lavender and chamomile can help soothe symptoms when applied to your skin.

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a non-infectious, chronic autoimmune disease in which skin cells multiply rapidly, leading to accumulation of surface cells. “This results in thick, scaly patches that may itch, ooze, or bleed,” says esthetician and cosmetologist Dr Karuna Malhotra. It can last for a long time with periods of remission as well as flare-ups. The painful condition affects about 100 million people in the world, according to the World Health Organization’s 2016 report on psoriasis.

There are different types, and plaque psoriasis is the most common type, according to the US National Institute Of Arthritis And Musculoskeletal And Skin Diseases. It appears as raised, red patches of skin covered by silvery-white scales.

Common symptoms of psoriasis include:

• Red sores on the skin covered with a white scale
• Itching, burning, or pain in affected areas such as the scalp, elbows, knees, lower back, and palms.
• Cracked, dry skin that may bleed
• Thick or ingrown nails (with nail psoriasis)
• Psoriatic arthritis

Essential oils for psoriasis: Here’s how they can help

“Essential oils have anti-inflammatory, moisturizing and soothing properties that help relieve psoriasis symptoms,” says the expert. Adding essential oils for psoriasis can help:

• Reduce redness and inflammation associated with ulcers.
• Reduce itching and discomfort.
• Promote healing of chapped or dry skin.
• Relaxes the mind, which helps with stress management (popular group).

The expert says: “You should remember that essential oils will not cure psoriasis, but they can complement the treatments recommended by doctors. Corticosteroids are often recommended to reduce inflammation and itching. “Vitamin D analogues (such as calcipotriol) can help slow down the production of skin cells, and coal tar and salicylic acid can help remove scales and soften the skin. Exposure to ultraviolet B light can slow down the growth of skin cells,” says the expert.

7 essential oils to control the symptoms of psoriasis

Using this oil for psoriasis can help you manage the symptoms of this skin condition:

1. Tea tree oil

The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of tea tree oil can reduce irritation and prevent infection in open wounds. Terpinen-4-ol, a major component of tea tree oil, has anti-inflammatory properties. Terpinen-4-ol can be used as an agent against psoriasis, according to research published in the journal Pharmacology and Physiology in 2012.

2. Lavender oil

Lavender, known for its soothing effects, can reduce redness, swelling and itching. “It can also promote relaxation and help manage stress, reducing flare-ups,” says Dr. Malhotra. During a 2020 study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, the topical use of lavender oil showed up to 74 percent of people with psoriasis.

3. Bergamot oil

It can act as an anti-inflammatory, and helps reduce redness and discomfort. Its antimicrobial properties can protect broken skin from infection. During a 2019 study published in the journal Food Science And Nutrition, researchers found that using bergamot essential oil can reduce psoriatic plaques, and increase skin collagen content.

4. Eucalyptus oil

Eucalyptus oil can provide a cooling effect on the skin. This can help relieve the itching and discomfort associated with the condition. Keeping the skin moisturized is very important, as cracked and dry skin is a common symptom. “Using this essential oil can also help hydrate dry patches and promote faster healing,” says Dr Malhotra.

5. Chamomile oil

It has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe irritated skin. It can help reduce itching and breakouts. During research published in the journal Pharmaceutics in 2023, the topical use of chamomile was found to be equivalent to that of hydrocortisone, which is used for the treatment of psoriasis. Research has shown that chamomile oil can be used safely to treat psoriasis.

6. Incense oil

This oil may promote skin regeneration and help reduce scarring. It can also support healthy skin and reduce inflammation. During a 2022 study, published in the Research Journal Of Pharmacognosy, a significant reduction in psoriasis symptoms was observed in participants who used a cream containing frankincense, pumpkin oil, and licorice aqueous extract.

7. Peppermint oil

Peppermint oil has cooling properties that can reduce itching and irritation. “It can also relieve joint pain associated with psoriatic arthritis, a type of inflammatory arthritis that sometimes affects people with psoriasis,” says the expert.

How to use essential oils for psoriasis?

Although it can be an effective way to relieve symptoms, you should know how to use essential oils for psoriasis:

• Translation: Essential oils are very stable and should always be diluted with a carrier oil such as coconut, almond or jojoba oil. A 2 to 3 percent dilution (about 10 to 15 drops per ounce of carrier oil) is sufficient.
• Use of articles: Rub the diluted oil directly on the affected area 2 to 3 times a day, but avoid using it on open wounds.
• Bath soak: Add about 10 drops of essential oil (diluted in a carrier) to a warm bath, and leave for 20 minutes to soothe and hydrate your skin.
• Scalp treatment: Mix an essential oil with a carrier oil, massage it into the scalp, and leave it on for 30 minutes before washing it off.

Who should not use essential oils for psoriasis?

Using essential oils for psoriasis is considered safe but here are a few things you need to remember to protect yourself:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Some essential oils can affect hormone levels.
• People with allergies or sensitive skin: Essential oils can cause irritation, so do a patch test first.
• People with chronic respiratory conditions: The strong smell of such oil can cause respiratory problems.
• Patients on medication: Some oils can interact with drugs (for example, lavender oil is a sedative). Consulting a doctor is important before using essential oils to manage symptoms.

You can combine essential oils with other treatments and maintain a healthy lifestyle to manage psoriasis symptoms. However, consult a doctor before using essential oils for psoriasis.