Psoriasisis an inflammatory skin disorder that causes rough, scaly skin patches.
Currently, there’s no cure.
This article discusses supplements for psoriasis treatment and other natural options.
miniseries / Getty Images
miniseries / Getty Images
Supplements and Psoriasis
Reducing inflammation is a key part of psoriasis management.
Some foods can increase inflammation and worsen psoriasis.
Supplements, especially anti-inflammatory supplements, are also a reasonable choice.
Biotin
Biotinis an essential nutrient that helps regulate cell signals.
It’s generally safe for people 19 and older.
The recommended daily dose of biotin is 30 mcg for most people.
Fish oil’s most common side effects are nausea, indigestion, diarrhea, and fishy taste.
Fish oil is among the more effective CAM therapies for psoriasis.
The recommended daily dose for most adults is 1.11.6 grams (g).
Vitamin A
Vitamin Ais important for maintaining healthy skin.
Research suggests that vitamin A levels may be lower during active periods of psoriatic disease.
People with psoriasis have good results from topical and oral administration of vitamin A derivatives.
Most adults need 700900 mcg of vitamin A per day.
Turmeric
Turmericcan help treat skin disorders.
Folic Acid
Folic acidis a complex B vitamin (B9) known as folate.
Along with vitamins B6 and B12, it helps control blood levels of a protein called homocysteine.
People with psoriasis often have high levels of homocysteine and low levels of folic acid.
High homocysteine is associated with psoriasis-related inflammation.
The recommended daily intake of folic acid for most adults is 400 mcg.
You may need a higher dose if you also takemethotrexate for psoriasis.
It’s best to take folic acid with a multivitamin.
Most adults need about 55 mcg of selenium a day.
However, it should only be used as a topical treatment unless your dermatologist advises otherwise.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin
Glucosamineandchondroitinare compounds found in joint cartilage.
As dietary supplements, they are popular with people who want to support joint health.
They appear safe for most people, but there’s no evidence that glucosamine and chondroitin improve psoriasis.
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
MSMis a popular anti-inflammatory supplement.
At a dose of up to 4 g a day, it’s generally well-tolerated.
However, more research is needed to understand how it affects psoriasis.
It is thought to boost the immune system and possibly help manage various diseases, including psoriasis.
Milk Thistle
Milk thistle(silymarin) is a flowering herb with anti-inflammatory properties.
It’s generally considered safe, but no research shows it can improve psoriasis symptoms.
No research supports its use for psoriasis or any health condition.
It’s probably safe for most adults and usually well-tolerated.
Olive Oil
Olive oilis rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oilis rich in medium-chain fatty acids and makes a good skin moisturizer.
Though it’s possibly effective for atopic dermatitis, no scientific evidence shows it helps psoriasis.
Aloe Vera
There’s evidence thataloe veracan reduce redness and scaling due to psoriasis.
Choose creams that are 0.5% aloe and apply up to three times a day.
Apply to your scalp and rinse after it dries.
it’s possible for you to do this a few times a week.
If you experience a burning sensation, try a half-water and half-vinegar mixture.
But don’t use vinegar if your skin is cracked or bleeding.
Some can interact with medicines, increase the risk of bleeding, or cause other side effects.
How to Use Supplements for Psoriasis
Always check labels for active and inactive ingredients and serving sizes.
In some cases, your provider may recommend different dosing.
Few have peer-reviewed studies on their efficacy in treating psoriasis.
Supplements should be taken cautiously and with a healthcare provider’s advice.
Summary
Many people use oral and topical therapies to complement psoriasis treatment.
Research on most is limited, and results are mixed.
It may take some trial and error to find the ones that help you.
Although many are safe to use, they can lead to unwanted side effects.
It’s always best to check with your provider before starting on any supplements.
You’ll want to ensure you’re using them correctly and whether they can interact with other therapies.
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