Turmeric is a popular herbal remedy used in Ayurvedic medicine and has a number of benefits for the skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce the itching and redness of psoriatic plaques, and its antioxidant qualities can slow down the effects of free radical damage caused by exposure to UV rays and other environmental irritants.
A homemade ointment can be made with turmeric to treat psoriasis patches. Using it twice a day can speed up the healing process and reduce inflammation. You can also apply it to affected areas to soothe itchiness and dryness.
Mix coconut oil with turmeric powder to make a nourishing ointment for psoriatic lesions. The fat in the coconut helps to moisturize your skin and prevent it from drying out, while turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties help speed up healing by decreasing inflammation and swelling.
Alternatively, you can use olive oil in a similar manner. Extra-virgin olive oil is rich in fatty acids and contains antioxidants that help protect the skin against free radical damage. It can also increase the production of elastin, which makes your skin look smoother and more youthful.
Another way to benefit from the antioxidants in turmeric is by drinking turmeric tea. This is especially effective for those with psoriasis because it contains strands of saffron, which help detoxify the body and reduce oxidative stress.
To prepare this herbal tea, you’ll need a teaspoon of ground turmeric, a tablespoon of Indian lilac paste and water to mix together. After blending the ingredients, stir in some honey and lemon juice for flavour. Simmer the mixture until it is a thick, dark brown. Drink this daily for a few months to improve your psoriatic skin condition.
Curcumin is an antioxidant that has been shown to inhibit the activity of phosphorylase kinases, which are increased in psoriatic patients. These kinases can lead to an overproduction of skin cells that triggers inflammatory reactions and the build-up of plaques on your skin.
It also boosts collagen production and increases the skin’s ability to repair itself. This halts the production of fine lines and wrinkles, and prevents sagging and loosening of the skin.
You can also combine a little turmeric with a small amount of honey to make a facial mask that may reduce acne and scarring. The antioxidants in turmeric will also help reduce oxidative stress and irritation on your face, which can cause redness, flaking and itching.
One of the main reasons for psoriasis is overproduction of skin cells, which speeds up the turnover of new cells. The resulting build-up of dead skin cells can clog pores, causing them to get clogged with dirt and grime, leading to scaly, itchy, and painful patches.
In addition to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric has an antibacterial effect, so it can fight infections that can exacerbate the symptoms of psoriasis. It also helps scavenge free radicals that cause inflammation and cellular damage.
It’s important to keep in mind that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric may not be suitable for all people with psoriasis, and it’s important to consult a doctor before starting any new treatment. The National Psoriasis Foundation recommends discussing proper dosage with your physician, to ensure that you don’t exceed the recommended levels of turmeric in your product.
