For centuries, people around the world have turned to herbal medicines to treat skin conditions. Today, scientific research is revealing which traditional herbs work for psoriasis and how they might help calm inflamed skin.
In this article, we’ll look at the evidence behind various herbs for psoriasis.
Table of Contents
Herbs for Psoriasis
Some herbs have been studied and have shown promise in improving psoriasis symptoms.
Curcumin (Turmeric)
Curcumin is the active compound in turmeric that has become one of the most studied herbs for psoriasis. Most of its benefits come from its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
A comprehensive review of 26 studies confirmed that curcumin may improve psoriasis through multiple mechanisms. Both taking it by mouth and using it with other treatments improved psoriasis scores (1).
One particularly interesting study combined curcumin with topical steroids. Patients took Meriva (a special form of curcumin, 2 grams daily) along with their regular topical treatment. The combination worked better than steroids alone and also lowered inflammatory markers in the blood (2).
An innovative approach combines oral curcumin with visible light therapy. Researchers found that 81% of patients using curcumin with real light therapy improved their symptoms, compared to only 30% with fake light (3).
Indigo Naturalis
Indigo naturalis, a traditional Chinese medicine made from fermented plant leaves, has shown impressive results for psoriasis when applied to the skin. In one trial of 42 patients with stubborn psoriasis, 74% of those using indigo naturalis ointment achieved clear or nearly clear skin. This is remarkable compared to many conventional treatments (4).
Research reveals that indigo naturalis works by targeting IL-17, a key inflammatory pathway in psoriasis. In one study, 56.3% of people using indigo naturalis achieved major improvement, compared to 0% with placebo (5).
Indigo naturalis also works well for nail psoriasis, which is notoriously difficult to treat. Lindioil, a refined form of oil containing indigo naturalis, improved nail psoriasis by about 60% after 12 weeks (6).
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera has been used for skin conditions for thousands of years. Research on its effectiveness for psoriasis shows mixed but generally positive results. One well-designed study tested aloe vera extract cream in 60 patients. The results were impressive – 83.3% of patients were cured with aloe vera, compared to only 6.6% with placebo (7).
Another study compared aloe vera to triamcinolone (a steroid cream). Both treatments worked similarly well, but patients tolerated aloe vera better (8).
Not all studies show benefits. One trial using commercial aloe vera gel found it was less effective than a placebo, suggesting that the type and quality of aloe vera preparation matter significantly (9).
Mahonia Aquifolium (Oregon Grape)
Mahonia aquifolium, also known as Oregon grape, contains compounds that may help reduce the inflammation and rapid skin cell growth seen in psoriasis.
A large study of 200 people tested Reliéva cream (containing Mahonia aquifolium extract) against a placebo. The study found significant improvements in psoriasis scores and quality of life, with very few side effects (10).
Laboratory studies reveal that Mahonia aquifolium contains alkaloids that block inflammatory processes involved in psoriasis (11). This may help prevent psoriasis from even forming to begin with.
Chinese Herbal Medicine
Traditional Chinese medicine uses complex herbal formulas tailored to individual patients. Research shows these formulas can help psoriasis, especially when combined with conventional treatments. When Chinese herbs are added to standard treatments like acitretin, results often improve. A review found that adding Chinese herbs increased the number of people achieving significant improvement (12).
One specific formula, called Liangxue Jiedu decoction, showed good results when tested in 238 patients. People taking this herbal formula had better improvement compared to those using Western medicine (13).
Other Herbs with Evidence
Several other herbs have shown promise for psoriasis treatment.
Glycyrrhizin (Licorice Root)
Compound glycyrrhizin from licorice root helps when added to conventional treatments. A review of 11 studies found it improved the number of people achieving significant improvement (14).
Melissa Officinalis (Lemon Balm)
One study tested lemon balm syrup for mild to moderate psoriasis. Results showed reduced itching and lower psoriasis scores (15).
Gracilaria Algae
This red seaweed showed surprising results in one study, even outperforming a strong steroid cream (16).
Safety Considerations
While herbs are often considered “natural,” they can still have side effects and interactions:
Quality matters. Studies showing benefits often use standardized, quality-controlled preparations. Random products from health stores may not have the same effects.
Some herbs can interact with medications:
- Licorice root can affect blood pressure and potassium levels
- Chinese herbs may interact with various medications
- Always tell your doctor about herbs you’re using
Topical preparations can cause reactions:
- Indigo naturalis can stain skin and clothes
- Some people are allergic to aloe vera
- Always test on a small area first
How to Choose and Use Herbal Treatments
If you’re considering herbs for psoriasis:
1. Start with proven options. Based on research, the strongest evidence supports:
- Indigo naturalis (topical)
- Curcumin (oral, especially with other treatments)
- Mahonia aquifolium (topical)
2. Choose quality products. Look for standardized extracts from reputable manufacturers.
3. Be patient. Herbs often work more slowly than pharmaceutical drugs. Most studies ran for at least 8-12 weeks.
4. Consider combination approaches. Many herbs work better when combined with conventional treatments.
The Bottom Line
The world of herbal medicine offers several evidence-based options for psoriasis management. From the anti-inflammatory power of curcumin to the impressive results with indigo naturalis, research is validating many traditional remedies.
Remember that “natural” doesn’t always mean “safe” or “effective.” Choose evidence-based options, use quality products, and always work with your healthcare team. Herbs can be valuable allies in managing psoriasis, but they work best as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.