Psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune skin disease, affects millions of people around the world.. Characterized by the appearance of red, scaly patches that cause itching, burning, and sometimes pain, this condition not only causes physical discomfort, but can also have a significant impact on the quality of life of those who suffer from it.
The most affected areas These are usually the scalp, elbows, knees and lower backalthough it can also appear in the nails, where it causes thickening, or in the joints, as happens in psoriatic arthritis.
According to a 2016 World Health Organization report, approximately 100 million people worldwide suffer from this disease, underscoring the need for effective treatments that improve symptoms and minimize outbreaks.
Although psoriasis has no cure, there are methods that can help control its symptoms. Medical treatments usually include the use of creams and ointments recommended by specialists. Ultraviolet light (UVB) therapies can also be used to help reduce cell proliferation in the affected areas, thus reducing the severity of symptoms.
In some cases, topical medications are recommended, such as corticosteroids, to reduce inflammation, vitamin D analogues to slow cell growth, and others such as coal tar or salicylic acid to eliminate scales and soften the skin.
In addition to these conventional treatments, some patients find benefits in using essential oils to relieve discomfort associated with psoriasis. Although they do not cure the disease, certain oils such as tea tree, lavender, chamomile and eucalyptus offer anti-inflammatory, soothing and moisturizing properties.. These oils help reduce redness and itching, promoting hydration and preventing cracking of the skin.
Which oils can improve psoriasis
Tea tree oil, for example, is known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can be helpful in reducing irritation and preventing infection in areas where the skin becomes cracked.
A 2012 study in Pharmacology and Physiology revealed that The main component of tea tree oil, terpinen-4-ol, has powerful anti-inflammatory effects which could be beneficial in the treatment of psoriasis.
For its part, lavender oil, widely recognized for its calming effect, has shown in studies a significant reduction in psoriasis symptoms, with a recovery of almost 74% in patients who used it, according to an article published in 2020 in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology.
Another option is eucalyptus oil, which provides a cooling sensation on the skin and relieves itching.. This oil is also useful for keeping the skin hydrated, a crucial aspect in preventing cracks that can easily become infected.
In addition to essential oils, there are other complementary methods that can help in the management of psoriasis. For example, cold tea bags applied to the eyes can reduce puffiness and dark circles, while its anti-inflammatory properties can soothe skin irritation.
It is important to note that although essential oils and other natural methods can offer temporary relief, they should be used with caution. Experts recommend diluting essential oils in carrier oils such as coconut, almond, or jojoba before applying them to the skin.
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