Tea tree oil for scalp psoriasis: Tea tree oil for psoriasis: Benefits, uses, and risks
Tea tree oil for psoriasis: Benefits, uses, and risks
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Psoriasis, and specifically plaque psoriasis, is an inflammatory skin condition that causes thick, red, and scaly plaque on the skin.
Some anecdotal evidence suggests that tea tree oil can help manage the itchiness and pain of psoriasis, especially on the scalp.
Tea tree oil is an essential oil, meaning that it is the distilled extract of a plant that contains beneficial compounds in high concentrations.
As essential oils can be highly potent, people often mix them with a carrier oil to make them safe for use.
In this article, we explore the benefits of tea tree oil and the evidence for its use in treating psoriasis symptoms.
Share on PinterestTea tree oil has a range of benefits for psoriasis, according to anecdotal evidence.
Tea tree oil is a yellow essential oil that comes from the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia, which people refer to as the tea tree plant.
The plant grows in Australia, where locals have used it for nearly 100 years to treat minor wounds and skin issues.
Early studies suggest that tea tree oil has antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties.
As a result, people use tea tree oil to alleviate many skin irritations and health problems, such as acne, lice, and possibly psoriasis.
Anecdotal evidence has suggested that it is a safe treatment, but no clinical studies have confirmed either the effectiveness or safety of tea tree oil.
Some suggestions for using tea tree oil for psoriasis include:
- mixing the oil with water, applying it to the skin with a cotton ball, leaving it overnight, and washing it off in the morning
- diluting tea tree oil with olive oil or another carrier oil, applying it to affected areas, allowing it to dry, and then washing it off
- adding a few drops of tea tree oil to a bathtub and bathing in lukewarm water
- combining one part of tea tree oil with 10 parts of shampoo
Tea tree oil is readily available and present in a wide range of skin care products. While the only evidence supporting its use is anecdotal, it is safe when a person uses it correctly.
People should try different remedies for psoriasis until they find an option that is effective and comfortable for symptom relief.
Share on PinterestSpeak to a doctor before using tea tree oil to treat psoriasis.
Some people have reported allergic reactions, including:
- severe rashes
- redness
- irritation
- swelling
- burning
If these occur, stop using the oil.
Take care when using tea tree oil and other essential oils. Applying them directly to the skin without a carrier oil can be harmful. Dilute the oil to reduce the risk of side effects.
Never consume tea tree oil by mouth. Swallowing tea tree oil could lead to the following adverse effects:
- stomach upset, including diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach ache
- blood cell anomalies
- severe rash
- drowsiness
- hallucinations
- confusion
Some people should apply caution before using tea tree oil, including:
- women who are pregnant or breastfeeding
- people who are taking vancomycin, an antibiotic
- people with linear IgA disease, an autoimmune skin disorder
- boys who have not yet reached puberty, as tea tree oil can increase the growth of breast tissue
- people with a known allergy to tea tree oil or its source plant
No studies have examined the effectiveness of tea tree oil for psoriasis.
The risk of side effects when using tea tree oil means that people should be careful before using it to manage the symptoms of psoriasis.
Also, due to the potential complications with certain medical conditions, anyone considering using tea tree oil should inform their doctor first.
Some people use other common herbal remedies to manage the symptoms of psoriasis.
These include:
- Aloe vera: A person with this condition can apply a cream containing at least 0.5 percent aloe to the skin up to three times a day. It may help to reduce scaling and redness associated with psoriatic lesions.
- Capsaicin: This is the chemical adds the spicy flavor to hot peppers. Creams containing capsaicin may help reduce psoriasis-associated discomfort, redness, and scaling.
- Epsom salts: Adding Epsom salts to a bath can soothe irritated and itchy skin, and may help to reduce some of the scaling found in psoriasis. Most people tolerate this remedy well.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: These are nutrients available in vegetable oils, fatty fish, soy products, nuts, and seeds, as well as in supplement form. Some evidence supports the use of fish oils, which have high quantities of omega-3 fatty acids, in managing psoriasis symptoms.
Remedies that work for one person may not have the desired effects in another. These natural treatments should also not replace the medical treatments for psoriasis, which are scientifically proven and often require a doctor’s prescription.
They can, however, provide further relief when used alongside these treatments.
Share on PinterestControlled sun exposure might improve symptoms.
People can enhance physical comfort and the appearance of psoriatic plaque by taking certain measures at home.
Some examples of effective home care methods for psoriasis include:
Bathing: Bathing and showering can help remove dead and inflamed skin and may also help reduce psoriatic plaque.
Adding Epsom salts to the water can also help to manage scaly skin, but avoiding hot water and harsh soaps is important for sensitive skin.
However, showers and baths can cause irritation and dry skin. You should limit baths or showers to one a day for only 5–15 minutes, keeping the temperature warm and not hot.
After bathing, a person should apply a heavy moisturizer while their skin is still moist. Coconut oil is an effective natural moisturizer.
Exposure to sunlight: Exposure to small amounts of sunlight can help improve symptoms. However, too much sunlight can trigger a flare-up of symptoms or make it worse, so speak with a doctor before beginning a regimen of light therapy.
People with psoriasis should apply sunscreen to any skin not affected by plaque.
Being aware of triggers: Finally, people should keep track of what triggers their psoriatic symptoms and avoid them if possible. Keeping a journal of symptoms and possible triggers can help pinpoint what causes psoriatic flares.
Anyone using tea tree oil or other natural remedies for psoriasis should talk to their doctor, as some of them can cause an allergic reaction. Some of these remedies may also be dangerous if they interact with other medications or medical conditions.
Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should also consult their doctor.
Most people need medication to control the symptoms of psoriasis. Options include topical creams, light therapy, and systemic medications.
Topical medications: These are creams and ointments that people apply directly to the affected skin. The most commonly prescribed topical medications are corticosteroids, a class of anti-inflammatory drugs.
However, people using these creams for a long time may at some point find that their symptoms can get worse, making other medications necessary. Other types of medication include synthetic vitamin D creams, topical retinoids, and calcineurin inhibitors, such as Protopic or Elidel.
Light therapy, or phototherapy: Mild exposure to natural sunlight or artificial ultraviolet A (UVA) or ultraviolet B (UVB) light can ease symptoms and decrease psoriatic affected areas.
Light exposure should be monitored by your doctor. Tanning beds are not recommended for psoriasis treatment.
Systemic medications: People with severe cases of psoriasis may take these drugs by mouth or by injection. Most of these medications alter the immune system, helping to reduce inflammation and the overproduction of skin cells. However, these present a risk of serious side effects.
Biologic medications: For some types of psoriasis, and especially for moderate-to-severe symptoms, a doctor may prescribe a biologic medication. This type of drug will aim to reduce the number of flares and manage symptoms by targeting a specific part of the immune system.
In order to ensure the best treatment, a person with this condition should always inform their doctor about changes in symptoms.
Tea tree oil is an essential oil that some anecdotal evidence suggests has beneficial effects on psoriasis symptoms.
However, no scientific evidence is available to confirm these benefits, and using tea tree oil in the wrong way runs a high risk of adverse effects.
Be sure to follow instructions, never take tea tree oil by mouth, and always dilute it in a carrier or base oil.
Other natural treatments include bathing in Epsom salts, capsaicin, and omega-3 fatty acids. No natural treatment for psoriasis is a suitable replacement for medical treatment.
To purchase from a range of tea tree oil products, reviewed by thousands of customers, click here.
Q:
Can any form of physical exercise help psoriasis symptoms?
A:
Psoriasis is an auto-immune disease that is brought on by certain triggers, such as stress, sunburn, illness, or even the weather.
Exercise can definitely help some people alleviate stress through physical exertion, or even using yoga to calm their mind. In addition, exercise should reduce the chance or severity of obesity, which has several other benefits that make treating psoriasis more responsive to medications and reduces the risk of developing other diseases that can cause further psoriasis triggers, such as diabetes.
If your exercise routine involves going outdoors, be sure to apply sunscreen, as sunburn might act as a psoriasis trigger. Likewise, if it’s cold outside, be sure to bundle up as the dry cold air could also cause a trigger.
Also, ensure you wear clothing that reduces any friction on the skin.
Lastly, be sure to bathe after your exercise and wash off any sweat, since this can be a trigger. Be sure to moisturize thoroughly after a bath.
Debra Sullivan, PhD, MSN, RN, CNE, COIAnswers represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.
Was this helpful?
Tea tree oil for psoriasis: Benefits, uses, and risks
We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.
Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.
Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site.
To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:
- Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
- Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
- Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?
We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.
Read more about our vetting process.
Was this helpful?
Psoriasis, and specifically plaque psoriasis, is an inflammatory skin condition that causes thick, red, and scaly plaque on the skin. Some anecdotal evidence suggests that tea tree oil can help manage the itchiness and pain of psoriasis, especially on the scalp.
Tea tree oil is an essential oil, meaning that it is the distilled extract of a plant that contains beneficial compounds in high concentrations.
As essential oils can be highly potent, people often mix them with a carrier oil to make them safe for use.
In this article, we explore the benefits of tea tree oil and the evidence for its use in treating psoriasis symptoms.
Share on PinterestTea tree oil has a range of benefits for psoriasis, according to anecdotal evidence.
Tea tree oil is a yellow essential oil that comes from the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia, which people refer to as the tea tree plant.
The plant grows in Australia, where locals have used it for nearly 100 years to treat minor wounds and skin issues.
Early studies suggest that tea tree oil has antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties.
As a result, people use tea tree oil to alleviate many skin irritations and health problems, such as acne, lice, and possibly psoriasis.
Anecdotal evidence has suggested that it is a safe treatment, but no clinical studies have confirmed either the effectiveness or safety of tea tree oil.
Some suggestions for using tea tree oil for psoriasis include:
- mixing the oil with water, applying it to the skin with a cotton ball, leaving it overnight, and washing it off in the morning
- diluting tea tree oil with olive oil or another carrier oil, applying it to affected areas, allowing it to dry, and then washing it off
- adding a few drops of tea tree oil to a bathtub and bathing in lukewarm water
- combining one part of tea tree oil with 10 parts of shampoo
Tea tree oil is readily available and present in a wide range of skin care products.
While the only evidence supporting its use is anecdotal, it is safe when a person uses it correctly.
People should try different remedies for psoriasis until they find an option that is effective and comfortable for symptom relief.
Share on PinterestSpeak to a doctor before using tea tree oil to treat psoriasis.
Some people have reported allergic reactions, including:
- severe rashes
- redness
- irritation
- swelling
- burning
If these occur, stop using the oil.
Take care when using tea tree oil and other essential oils. Applying them directly to the skin without a carrier oil can be harmful. Dilute the oil to reduce the risk of side effects.
Never consume tea tree oil by mouth. Swallowing tea tree oil could lead to the following adverse effects:
- stomach upset, including diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach ache
- blood cell anomalies
- severe rash
- drowsiness
- hallucinations
- confusion
Some people should apply caution before using tea tree oil, including:
- women who are pregnant or breastfeeding
- people who are taking vancomycin, an antibiotic
- people with linear IgA disease, an autoimmune skin disorder
- boys who have not yet reached puberty, as tea tree oil can increase the growth of breast tissue
- people with a known allergy to tea tree oil or its source plant
No studies have examined the effectiveness of tea tree oil for psoriasis.
The risk of side effects when using tea tree oil means that people should be careful before using it to manage the symptoms of psoriasis.
Also, due to the potential complications with certain medical conditions, anyone considering using tea tree oil should inform their doctor first.
Some people use other common herbal remedies to manage the symptoms of psoriasis.
These include:
- Aloe vera: A person with this condition can apply a cream containing at least 0.5 percent aloe to the skin up to three times a day. It may help to reduce scaling and redness associated with psoriatic lesions.
- Capsaicin: This is the chemical adds the spicy flavor to hot peppers. Creams containing capsaicin may help reduce psoriasis-associated discomfort, redness, and scaling.
- Epsom salts: Adding Epsom salts to a bath can soothe irritated and itchy skin, and may help to reduce some of the scaling found in psoriasis. Most people tolerate this remedy well.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: These are nutrients available in vegetable oils, fatty fish, soy products, nuts, and seeds, as well as in supplement form. Some evidence supports the use of fish oils, which have high quantities of omega-3 fatty acids, in managing psoriasis symptoms.
Remedies that work for one person may not have the desired effects in another. These natural treatments should also not replace the medical treatments for psoriasis, which are scientifically proven and often require a doctor’s prescription.
They can, however, provide further relief when used alongside these treatments.
Share on PinterestControlled sun exposure might improve symptoms.
People can enhance physical comfort and the appearance of psoriatic plaque by taking certain measures at home.
Some examples of effective home care methods for psoriasis include:
Bathing: Bathing and showering can help remove dead and inflamed skin and may also help reduce psoriatic plaque.
Adding Epsom salts to the water can also help to manage scaly skin, but avoiding hot water and harsh soaps is important for sensitive skin.
However, showers and baths can cause irritation and dry skin. You should limit baths or showers to one a day for only 5–15 minutes, keeping the temperature warm and not hot.
After bathing, a person should apply a heavy moisturizer while their skin is still moist. Coconut oil is an effective natural moisturizer.
Exposure to sunlight: Exposure to small amounts of sunlight can help improve symptoms. However, too much sunlight can trigger a flare-up of symptoms or make it worse, so speak with a doctor before beginning a regimen of light therapy.
People with psoriasis should apply sunscreen to any skin not affected by plaque.
Being aware of triggers: Finally, people should keep track of what triggers their psoriatic symptoms and avoid them if possible. Keeping a journal of symptoms and possible triggers can help pinpoint what causes psoriatic flares.
Anyone using tea tree oil or other natural remedies for psoriasis should talk to their doctor, as some of them can cause an allergic reaction. Some of these remedies may also be dangerous if they interact with other medications or medical conditions.
Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should also consult their doctor.
Most people need medication to control the symptoms of psoriasis. Options include topical creams, light therapy, and systemic medications.
Topical medications: These are creams and ointments that people apply directly to the affected skin. The most commonly prescribed topical medications are corticosteroids, a class of anti-inflammatory drugs.
However, people using these creams for a long time may at some point find that their symptoms can get worse, making other medications necessary. Other types of medication include synthetic vitamin D creams, topical retinoids, and calcineurin inhibitors, such as Protopic or Elidel.
Light therapy, or phototherapy: Mild exposure to natural sunlight or artificial ultraviolet A (UVA) or ultraviolet B (UVB) light can ease symptoms and decrease psoriatic affected areas.
Light exposure should be monitored by your doctor. Tanning beds are not recommended for psoriasis treatment.
Systemic medications: People with severe cases of psoriasis may take these drugs by mouth or by injection. Most of these medications alter the immune system, helping to reduce inflammation and the overproduction of skin cells. However, these present a risk of serious side effects.
Biologic medications: For some types of psoriasis, and especially for moderate-to-severe symptoms, a doctor may prescribe a biologic medication. This type of drug will aim to reduce the number of flares and manage symptoms by targeting a specific part of the immune system.
In order to ensure the best treatment, a person with this condition should always inform their doctor about changes in symptoms.
Tea tree oil is an essential oil that some anecdotal evidence suggests has beneficial effects on psoriasis symptoms.
However, no scientific evidence is available to confirm these benefits, and using tea tree oil in the wrong way runs a high risk of adverse effects.
Be sure to follow instructions, never take tea tree oil by mouth, and always dilute it in a carrier or base oil.
Other natural treatments include bathing in Epsom salts, capsaicin, and omega-3 fatty acids. No natural treatment for psoriasis is a suitable replacement for medical treatment.
To purchase from a range of tea tree oil products, reviewed by thousands of customers, click here.
Q:
Can any form of physical exercise help psoriasis symptoms?
A:
Psoriasis is an auto-immune disease that is brought on by certain triggers, such as stress, sunburn, illness, or even the weather.
Exercise can definitely help some people alleviate stress through physical exertion, or even using yoga to calm their mind. In addition, exercise should reduce the chance or severity of obesity, which has several other benefits that make treating psoriasis more responsive to medications and reduces the risk of developing other diseases that can cause further psoriasis triggers, such as diabetes.
If your exercise routine involves going outdoors, be sure to apply sunscreen, as sunburn might act as a psoriasis trigger. Likewise, if it’s cold outside, be sure to bundle up as the dry cold air could also cause a trigger.
Also, ensure you wear clothing that reduces any friction on the skin.
Lastly, be sure to bathe after your exercise and wash off any sweat, since this can be a trigger. Be sure to moisturize thoroughly after a bath.
Debra Sullivan, PhD, MSN, RN, CNE, COIAnswers represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.
Was this helpful?
natural ways to treat the scalp with tea tree oil, aloe vera, apple cider vinegar, baking soda and aspirin sebum production. There are many easy ways to get rid of dandruff with medicated shampoos, conditioners, and other products. But we propose to consider emergency methods of fighting the fungus at home.
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5 natural remedies for dandruff with fast action and impressive results.
Do not self-medicate! In our articles, we collect the latest scientific data and the opinions of authoritative health experts. But remember: only a doctor can diagnose and prescribe treatment.
- Tea tree oil . Tea tree leaf (melaleuca) essential oil has been proven to have antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, which is why it is used in medicine to treat diseases such as acne and psoriasis. But the remedy will be just as effective in the fight against the fungus (genus Malassezia) , which causes dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis. Recent studies confirm that tea tree oil can reduce itching, moisturize the skin and reduce oil levels. Before applying to the hair, it must be diluted in water or mixed with other oils.
- Coconut oil is a natural product that can fight inflammation, kill germs and moisturize the epidermis, eliminating severe flaking, such as eczema. In one study, scientists asked women with seborrhea to apply coconut oil to their hair roots as a mask for 12 weeks. The experiment resulted in significant improvements in the participants’ scalp microbiome and symptom relief.
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- Aloe Vera. A succulent plant that is popular in cosmetology and dermatology due to a number of useful properties. Applying its juice to the skin is the first aid for light burns, psoriasis, herpes simplex and, oddly enough, dandruff. It is known that the antifungal effect of aloe helps to prevent the development of certain strains of fungal infections, while due to the antibacterial effect, inflammation is reduced.
- Apple cider vinegar is another anti-seborrhea product. The acidity of vinegar helps exfoliate dead skin cells, normalizes the pH level (acidity of the skin), and reduces the activity of fungi. However, there is another point of view in the scientific community: some researchers tend to believe that apple cider vinegar is too aggressive for the scalp and its use is fraught with irritation. However, if you want to try the substance in action, do not use it in its pure form: it is better to mix it with water, essential oils and spray it through your hair with a spray bottle or add a couple of tablespoons to your shampoo.
The acidity of vinegar helps exfoliate dead skin cells, normalizes the pH level (acidity of the skin), and reduces the activity of fungi. However, there is another point of view in the scientific community: some researchers tend to believe that apple cider vinegar is too aggressive for the scalp and its use is fraught with irritation. However, if you want to try the substance in action, do not use it in its pure form: it is better to mix it with water, essential oils and spray it through your hair with a spray bottle or add a couple of tablespoons to your shampoo.- Aspirin. Aspirin contains salicylic acid. It can be found in many medicated dandruff shampoos. Unlike malic acid, salicylic acid does not cause irritation. In addition, it disinfects and copes with inflammatory pathologies. Crush two aspirin tablets and then add the powder to your shampoo before washing your hair.
remedy for psoriasis? – Drink-Drink
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Jun 29, 2023
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Contents
- Treatment
- Why tea tree oil?
- Conclusion
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that affects the skin, scalp, nails, and sometimes the joints (psoriatic arthritis). This is a chronic disease in which there is a very rapid growth of skin cells on the surface of healthy skin. These excess cells form flat, silvery patches and dry, red patches that can be painful and bleed. The condition persists for life, and the severity, size, and location of the spots vary.
Doctors have identified some common triggers for psoriasis flares, including:
- sunburn
- viral infection
- stress
- too much alcohol (more than one drink per day for women and two for men)
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There also there seems to be a genetic link. People who have family members with psoriasis are more likely to get the disease. The habit of smoking or obesity can lead to a worsening of the condition.
Treatment
There is no cure for psoriasis, and people with the condition may become depressed or have to limit their daily activities. But there are effective treatments that can help relieve symptoms.
Prescription treatments include medicines that change the body’s immune response or reduce inflammation. Some medications also slow down the growth of skin cells. Medications applied to the skin can help shed excess skin or speed up healing. Some patients benefit from supervised ultraviolet therapy.
Why tea tree oil?
Tea tree oil is obtained from the leaves of the tea tree, also known as the angustifolia tea tree. These trees are native to Australia. Tea tree oil is widely available throughout the world as an essential oil and as an active ingredient in over-the-counter products such as lotions and shampoos. Scientific studies support its use in the treatment of acne. It also has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory characteristics. It has been used for everything from treating the common cold to preventing head lice.