Psoriasis can be a painful condition. A qualified physician should always treat advanced cases. However, there are some ways to treat milder cases with a range of home remedies.
One of the things about psoriasis is that the condition makes the skin dry, with a predilection toward flaking and itching. Using some sort of application that will help provide moisture for the skin will go a long way in helping with the condition. Lactic acid moisturizers that are purchased over the counter at the drugstore can work very well. Bag balm and cow cream can be applied after a shower, while the skin is still relatively supple and moist. Also, garlic oil that is rubbed into the dry patch before bedtime can help keep down the itching and also moisten the skin. Essentially, anything that can be used as an emollient will do the trick. This means you can use a dab of petroleum jelly rubbed into the skin, or even vegetable shortening.
Using the power of light has brought relief to some people with this condition. A homeopathic physician can advise on the proper way to administer ultraviolet light treatments at home, including how to set up the necessary equipment and how long the treatments should last. UVB sun lamps are easy to find and purchase, but they do have to be operated with care. Too much exposure through multiple treatments in a short period of time may cause the psoriasis to worsen rather than alleviate the condition.
There is a school of thought that believes food allergies can worsen psoriasis. If this appears to be the case, then first, eliminate foods from the diet that may be causing a minor allergic reaction. At the same time, try a gluten-free diet for a month and see what happens. Removing wheat, oats, rye and barley from daily consumption has worked in helping to lessen the severity of a number of skin conditions. Second, add foods that are rich in Vitamins A, B complex, D, and E to the diet. Supplement with such herbs as capsicum, red clover, and golden seal. These help promote healthy skin, and may be just what is needed to bring the skin under control.