Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a psoriatic condition linked to psoriasis.Natural and herbal remedies haven’t been shown to cure psoriatic arthritis, but a few may help ease your symptoms.
Some people with PsA also experience psoriatic nail and skin changes.
The following natural remedies you can try to help soothe your joints and relieve psoriasis:
1. Turmeric (Curcumin)
Curcumin, present in turmeric, may be a natural remedy for psoriatic arthritis.It is a yellow-colored spice used in a variety of cuisines,appears to have anti-inflammatory properties.
People can add the spice to food or take turmeric capsules.Look for supplements containing curcumin, an active ingredient in turmeric. Curcumin has been shown to block cytokines and enzymes that cause inflammation.
2. Capsaicin
Capsaicin is the compound that contain in chili peppers.It helps with arthritis pain by creating a numbing effect on pain receptors and creams containing capsaicin bringing relief to painful joints. A person should apply these creams to the affected joints.
Capsaicin creams are available for purchase online and over the counter.
3. Epsom salts
The Dead Sea is located in Israel roughly 1,300 feet below sea level. It’s full of minerals and is very salty, you can purchase Dead Sea salts online.
Another way to try taking a warm bath with Epsom salts can help reduce joint pain and inflammation. Epsom salts contain magnesium, which is a mineral that boosts bone health and may soothe itchy skin.
Warm water also helps loosen joints and relieve pain. The temperature should be around 92–100°F (33–37.8°C).
However, Epsom salts can stimulate the release of insulin and may therefore not be suitable for people with diabetes.
4. Vitamin D
Some people with psoriatic arthritis have a vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D is important for general health, especially bone health. You can get this vitamin through sun exposure and from another source like: Almonds, orange juice etc.
Ask your doctor if you should also take a supplement.
5. Ginger
Ginger is a root and a spice that appears to have anti-inflammatory properties. The Arthritis Foundation suggest that ginger may help people with rheumatoid arthritis, which is another inflammatory type of arthritis.
6. Exercise
Exercise can boost a person’s overall health and quality of life. It can also reduce stiffness, strengthen muscles, aid weight maintenance, and lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Even low-impact activities such as swimming, yoga, or tai chi for people with PsA.
7. Stretching
Stretching is a vital part of psoriatic arthritis therapy. It prevents tightness and keeps you limber. Plus, it helps you avoid injuries when you exercise.The National Psoriasis Foundation recommends 15 minutes of stretching as part of your daily exercise routine.
Work with a physical therapist or qualified personal trainer to create a daily stretching routine that works for you.
8. Massage therapy
Heating pads loosen joints and relax aching muscles. Moist heat from a wet washcloth or warm bath can be especially soothing to sore joints.
Cold packs help reduce swelling and pain. Wrap the ice pack in a towel to avoid damaging your skin.You can alternate heat with cold as needed as massage therapy to help with arthritis symptoms.
9. Acupuncture
A qualified acupuncturist can insert needles at various pressure points to relieve chronic pain. However, it can be expensive, and it may trigger skin symptoms in some people with psoriasis.
10. Acupressure
A therapist can apply pressure to different points of the body to reduce pain, stimulate the immune system, and release tension.
Stress reduction techniques
Stress and fatigue can occur with PsA, as well as trigger a flare and worsen the symptoms. Reducing stress may help lower inflammation.
11. Try to relax
Many people find it hard to reduce their stress levels, especially when they feel unwell. Meditating, practicing yoga, and getting enough sleep each night may help manage stress and promote relaxation.
12. Get enough sleep
Getting enough sleep and rest can help relieve symptoms.Sleep can help manage inflammation, reduce stress, and boost overall health and well-being.
The National Psoriasis Foundation explain that people with psoriatic conditions tend to have more problems with sleep than those without them.
Fatigue is a common issue for people with psoriatic arthritis. Part of the reason for this pervasive tiredness is a lack of sleep.
To encourage good sleep:
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol late in the day
- Exercise during the day
- Make sure that the room is dark, and that the temperature is comfortable.
- Leave cell phones and other devices outside the room.
- Go to bed and get up at the same time every day.
- Avoid big meals before bed
- Take a relaxing bath or shower before bed
13. Take a warm bath
Spa therapy, including hydrotherapy such as taking a warm bath, can loosen joints, ease pain and inflammation,promote relaxation, and lower stress levels.
14. Meditation and mindfulness
Mindfulness involves being aware of the body, how it is feeling, and any changes that may signal an approaching flare. It also involves being aware of any situations that may cause unnecessary stress. Meditation can help manage pain and stress.
Tips to relieve skin symptoms
People with PsA may have skin involvement as well as arthritis. Here are some remedies that may help soothe the skin:
15. Apple cider vinegar
Applying apple cider vinegar to affected areas of skin may help a person with scalp psoriasis.
However, people should not use apple cider vinegar if the affected areas are cracked or bleeding. Apple cider vinegar is available to buy online
16. Oregon grape
Mahonia aquifolium, also known as Oregon grape, is a medicinal herb with germ-killing properties.A cream or ointment containing 10 percent mahonia improved psoriasis symptoms with minimal side effects
17. Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil has anti-inflammatory properties, and it may help relieve skin symptoms. Before applying it, a person should do a patch test, as it may aggravate some people’s skin.
18. Oats and Dead Sea salts
Oatmeal, as a paste or in a bath, can help soothe irritated skin. A person can also add Dead Sea salts to their bath. The water should be warm, never hot, as this can trigger symptoms.
19. Aloe vera
This soothing, plant-based balm can provide comfort when a person applies it to patches of irritated skin.Aloe vera gel is possibly best known for soothing sunburns and helping wounds heal.
Research finds that a cream or gel containing aloe might also help relieve some of the redness, swelling, and scaling associated with psoriasis.
The National Psoriasis Foundation recommends creams containing 0.5 percent aloe. You can apply them up to 3 times daily.
20. Moisturizer
A person should try to moisturize their skin at least once every day. The best time to do this is within 5 minutes of taking a bath or shower. A thick moisturizer is usually best. A pharmacist can suggest suitable options.