Psoriasis causes thick, scaly, and discolored patches on the skin. Some people believe that apple cider vinegar (ACV) can help alleviate the itching and irritation that psoriasis causes.
Key takeaways
- While some people with psoriasis report relief from itching and irritation using apple cider vinegar (ACV), especially on the scalp, scientific research has not yet confirmed these effects.
- When using ACV, it is important to proceed with caution. Application to broken or inflamed skin may cause further irritation. Diluting ACV with water and rinsing after use may help reduce discomfort.
- Beyond ACV, other home remedies like aloe vera, Dead Sea salts, and turmeric may help alleviate psoriasis symptoms. Consulting with a doctor is recommended before trying new treatments.
Psoriasis is a skin condition caused by both genetic factors and the immune system. Symptoms include:
- reddish-pink or purple-brown patches of scaly skin
- dry, cracked skin that may or may not bleed
- itching or burning
- thickened fingernails or toenails
- swollen or stiff joints
Medications, such as steroid creams, can help ease the symptoms of psoriasis, but many people prefer to use home remedies, such as apple cider vinegar (ACV). Some people use a combination of medications and home remedies.
This article looks at ACV as a psoriasis treatment, how to use it, and other natural options to treat psoriasis.
According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, ACV’s antiseptic properties may help soothe the itching or irritation of psoriasis, especially on the scalp.
Although there appear to be no risks when using ACV for psoriasis, no research has determined its effects on the condition.
For scalp psoriasis, people can try applying organic ACV directly to the scalp several times per week.
However, if the scalp is cracked, bleeding, or has open wounds, ACV is likely to cause further irritation and pain.
Diluting the vinegar with equal quantities of water before applying it can also reduce the sensation of burning and irritation. Rinsing the scalp once the solution has dried may also alleviate these effects.
To add ACV to a bath, ensure the water is not too hot and add 1 cup to 1 pint of vinegar to the water.
ACV can help preserve food, and people have used it as a disinfectant in the past. More recently, vinegar has gained popularity for its potential health benefits.
People make ACV by fermenting apple cider with specialized bacteria to form acidic vinegar.
Organic, unrefined ACV is widely available in grocery stores. Many people believe this carries the most benefit, due to lower levels of processing during production.
Confirming any benefits or risks of using ACV for medicinal purposes requires more research. However, ACV may have the following benefits:
- contributes to body fat loss
- improves how the arteries work
- helps with weight loss
- improves blood sugar regulation
Q: What is the safest and most effective complementary treatment for psoriasis?A: The problem is that what works for one person with psoriasis may not work for another person. Also, what works for a person one time may not work again at a later time. It is a trial and error process.
When people discuss complementary treatments, they usually mean an herbal remedy. However, herbal treatments can have dangerous interactions with your other medicine or cause allergic reactions.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding or have a pre-existing medical condition, herbal treatments can have an adverse effect. Always check with your doctor before taking herbal remedies in these cases.
— Debra Sullivan, PhD, MSN, RN, CNE, COI
Answers represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.
In addition to ACV, many people look to other natural and alternative remedies to help treat psoriasis plaques. The following natural products might prove beneficial people with psoriasis.
Aloe vera
Aloe vera gel is a favorite remedy for cuts, burns, and skin irritations of the skin. Its moisturizing properties may soothe the skin and ease the discomfort that often occurs with psoriasis.
A person can squeeze the gel directly from the leaves of the plant.
Capsaicin
Capsaicin is the chemical in hot peppers that gives them their intense flavor.
Creams and ointments containing capsaicin may help reduce inflammation and scaling in people with psoriasis. However, they may cause a burning sensation for some people.
Dead Sea salts or Epsom salts
Adding dead sea salts or Epsom salts to a warm bath may help relieve itching and discomfort. The salt draws fluid out from the tissues, decreasing edema, also known as water retention.
It is important to moisturize the skin after taking a salt bath. This helps restore moisture to the surface of the skin.
Oats
Oats are a natural skin soother.
People use them to relieve itching associated with chickenpox or other itchy skin conditions, including psoriasis.
People can add oats directly to their bath water. Alternatively, they can put the oats in a sock and tie the sock at the top. They can either dangle the sock just into the water or gently rub it over the skin.
Try making an oat paste and applying it to the plaques or itchy areas.
Curcumin and turmeric
Curcumin derives from turmeric, a spice with a rich antioxidant content and anti-inflammatory properties.
Some studies have shown that curcumin might help reduce inflammatory activity and is useful in treating a range of conditions.
People add turmeric to curries and other recipes, and it is also available as a supplement.
ACV may or may not be helpful in treating psoriasis. Some people report positive effects, but there is a shortage of meaningful data supporting its use.
While treating symptoms with ACV generally poses a low risk of adverse effects, there is also no data confirming the benefits for relieving psoriatic itching and irritation.
If anyone experiences increased irritation or discomfort after using natural remedies for psoriasis, stop using the product immediately and seek medical attention.