Natural Psoriasis Treatment Using Essential Oils
Treat Psoriasis Causes and Skin Rash Conditions with Aromatherapy
Sep 10, 2009
Anyone seeking natural treatment for psoriasis will be glad to learn that aromatherapy oils can be used to relieve this uncomfortable and unsightly skin condition. Only the best therapeutic grade essential oils will be successful as a natural psoriasis treatment.
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a skin condition in which skin cells grow and divide rapidly, causing the development of red, peeling areas on the skin. The skin disorder is not contagious, but it can run in families – the causes may be both genetic and environmental.
- Psoriasis normally occurs on the scalp, elbows, knees, hands, face, groin and genitals.
- It can result in red skin rash, dandruff, and peeling skin. Itchiness is also a common psoriasis symptom.
- According to Medicine.net, roughly 2% of the world population has psoriasis although some may have mild enough cases to never need treatment.
- Present medical knowledge describes psoriasis as a non-curable condition, although it may improve and worsen with weather and stress, and even go into remission for years at a time.
- Warmth and exposure to direct sunlight usually improve psoriasis symptoms, while cold may make it worse.
Natural Psoriasis Treatment with Aromatherapy
Although medical treatment focuses on relieving symptoms without hoping of really curing psoriasis, holistic health care providers believe that it is possible to cure this skin condition. Their primary focus is on relieving the stress of toxins and acidity which contribute to most (if not all) skin problems. Balancing the body's pH can be helpful in combating psoriasis, and so can essential oils.
Essential oils are a powerful tool for healing, and are especially effective for skin conditions and diseases since it is so easy to apply them where they can directly affect the cause of the problem. Essential oils are natural plant extracts that have the ability to bring oxygen directly to the cells, kill viruses and bacteria, moisturize the skin, and even correct mutations (current research on frankincense essential oil and tumors).
These amazing plant liquids have been used for millennia to treat every type of skin condition, from nameless rashes and acne to ringworm and athlete's foot.
Choosing the Essential Oils to Treat Psoriasis
Several essential oils can be helpful in treating psoriasis. For some people, the best treatment is to apply the oils directly onto the affected area, "neat" or without dilution. In other cases, the skin may be too sensitive to apply the oils neat, so a base oil such as almond or jojoba should be used. (Safety note: Only therapeutic grade essential oils are safe to use directly on the skin. Please read The Real Quality of Essential Oils for further safety information.)
The best oils to use in treating psoriasis include:
- Helichrysum
- Chamomile
- Melaleuca alternifolia (commonly called "tea tree")
- Patchouli (patchouly)
- Rose
- Lavender
For those who prefer to use a fatty base oil to dilute the essential oil, jojoba, avocado, and extra virgin olive oil are some of the safest choices for rashes and skin conditions.
Reference
Alai, Nili N., MD, "Psoriasis," Medicine.net, 2009.
Essential Science Publishing (compiled by), Essential Oils Desk Reference, 2nd Edition. USA, Essential Science Publishing, 2001.
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