Try Chamomile For Preventing And Relieving Psoriasis Symptoms

Psoriasis can be difficult to manage, even with medical treatment. As with other health conditions, sometimes adding complementary therapies to standard medical treatment proves very useful. You might give the herb chamomile a try.

About Chamomile

Chamomile is part of the daisy plant family, and the plants look a lot like daisies. As an herbal remedy, chamomile has been used since ancient times for purposes such as relieving stress, inflammation, hay fever and digestive upset.

When taken internally as a tea or supplement, chamomile is known for its relaxing and calming effects. The scent of this herb is soothing as well. Topically, chamomile reduces inflammation. These characteristics make chamomile useful for people dealing with psoriasis.

Chamomile for Stress Relief

Psoriasis flareups are commonly associated with stress. The problem can become a vicious cycle since psoriasis can make you feel anxious, embarrassed and stressed about your skin. The National Psoriasis Foundation is active in the exploration of chamomile for reducing stress as it relates to psoriasis, having awarded a $200,000 research grant in this subject in 2013. 

A study published in 2009 found that taking a chamomile extract supplement reduced anxiety in people with generalized anxiety disorder and enhanced a sense of psychological well-being. Drinking chamomile tea and taking chamomile capsules can be part of your daily stress-reducing routine, or you might turn to the herb when you start feeling anxious or know you're facing a stressful day. This may help you prevent flareups from occurring or decrease their usual severity.

Chamomile also is useful in aromatherapy for treating psoriasis. You might use chamomile essential oil in an electric diffuser or one heated by an unscented candle. If you find taking a bath relaxing, add a few drops of chamomile essential oil to the water.

Chamomile for Reducing Inflammation

The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that a topical cream containing 3 to 10 percent chamomile can be applied to reduce symptoms of psoriasis. Some creams for treating psoriasis and another skin disorder, eczema, contain both chamomile and calendula. Calendula is a type of marigold, and it's also a member of the daisy family.

Concluding Thoughts

If the details about chamomile sound intriguing to you, try using the herbal cream topically to manage your symptoms. Also see whether you notice calming effects when consuming chamomile tea and supplements, or when using the essential oil for aromatherapy.

Tell your dermatologist about any complementary therapies you begin using, including chamomile. Your doctor will be interested in learning whether the herb seems to help prevent flareups or reduce symptoms when you do develop itchy rashes. 

For more help, contact local dermatology services.


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