Scaly, itchy and dry patches over the skin and on the scalp are common signs of psoriasis. However, regular massage with eucalyptus oil for psoriasis will reduce inflammation and scaly patches.
As new skin cells are generated, your skin sheds dead cells. In a person with psoriasis, the immune system signals to skin cells to grow at rapid pace.
Your body fails to shed these cells and a pile of dead cells are formed over the skin.
Who Get and What Causes Psoriasis?
According to American Academy of Dermatology, whites are more often to get psoriasis than other races.
Only in the US, there are about 7.5 million people with this chronic skin ailment. If anyone in your family has psoriasis, most probably you may also get these dry itchy patches.
Unfortunately, the main cause of psoriasis is not known. However, stress, medicines, genetics, food, cold weather and cuts can trigger psoriasis. (Source)
Benefits of Eucalyptus Oil for Psoriasis
This essential oil is obtained through a steam distillation process of dried leaves of the eucalyptus tree. It’s sweet and woody smell can soothe stress and elevate your mood.
Eucalyptus essential oil has immense nutrients that can enhance your overall skin functioning.
- Antibacterial properties residing in this essential oil can restrain infectious germs and help to treat various ailments. (1)
- Healing ability of the oil can fasten the healing process of psoriasis patches.
- Analgesic property helps to relieve pain and reduce scaly skin.
- Vasodilator activity of eucalyptus oil helps to improve blood circulation and relax your skin.
- The university of Maryland Medical explained eucalyptus oil can effectively treat wounds, injuries and insect repellents. (2)
- Anti-inflammatory and antiviral agents in it can reduce psoriasis inflammation and thwart infection.
- Antiseptic property helps to treat minor burns, blisters, bumps, psoriasis and other skin ailments.
Note: Before you proceed further, let me disclose that there is no scientific evidence that proves ability of eucalyptus oil to treat psoriasis. Natural remedies aren’t associated with any serious side-effects, so giving it a try may work for you.
How to Use Eucalyptus Oil for Psoriasis
Itching is often linked with dry skin.
When your skin loses its natural moisture infectious germs invade and trigger the infection.
However, this may not be same in all cases.
Hydrating with essential oils will relieve itching and locks the lost moisture over the skin. Other assorted vitamins and minerals residing in this essential oil can enhance overall functioning of your skin.
Direct use of eucalyptus essential oil must be avoided. You must dilute it with a carrier oil before topical application. This is same with all essential oils.
Also, don’t consume eucalyptus oil until you discuss with your physician.
- Wash psoriasis affected part with water to remove impurities.
- Pat dry using a soft cloth.
- Don’t be harsh while cleansing.
- Mix few drops of eucalyptus oil with coconut oil and apply it over dry itchy patches.
- Leave them to dry naturally.
Nutrients in the oil penetrate deep into the skin and restrain infection.
Eucalyptus Oil and Almond Oil
The excellent thing about homemade remedies is that you can avoid ingredients that can irritate your skin.
Diluting this essential oil with almond oil will not only make it more effective but it goes well with your sensitive skin.
Almond oil is known for its moisturizing and healing properties. You can also use this recipe for scalp psoriasis.
- Take required amount of almond oil in a bowl.
- Add few drops of eucalyptus essential oil to it.
- Apply the mixed lotion over prewashed skin.
- Avoid lukewarm water while washing, as it triggers itching.
Eucalyptus Oil for Scalp Psoriasis
Research states that atleast 50 percent of people with plaque psoriasis have scalp psoriasis.
There are different recipes over the web, which you can try over the scalp.
- Blend 5ml of eucalyptus essential oil with 50 ml of olive oil.
- Cleanse your hair with mild shampoo if possible.
- When the hair is still damp, apply the mixed lotion over the scalp.
- Allow it to dry naturally.
Eucalyptus Oil and Vinegar
Psoriasis triggers itching over scaly patches, which may result in inflammation.
- Dilute this essential oil with 50 ml of vinegar and 1 liter of distilled water.
- Rinse your hair to remove any hair products applied over the scalp by cleansing.
- Gently massage the eucalyptus oil and vinegar solution before going to bed.
Homemade Eucalyptus Oil for Psoriasis
As mentioned, about 50 percent people with psoriasis will have scalp psoriasis, am sharing this ultimate mask to treat this chronic skin ailment.
- Mash one fully ripe avocado and add ¼ cup of coconut milk to it.
- Also add ¼ cup of coconut oil, few drops of lavender oil and eucalyptus essential oil to it.
- Store this homemade mask and apply it over the scalp.
To reduce stress, take hot water in a tub and place it beside your bed. Drop few drops of eucalyptus essential oil to the water.
Side-Effects of Eucalyptus Oil
Don’t use this essential oil without diluting. Internal consumption of eucalyptus oil can be toxic.
However, small amounts can be taken with food.
Topical application over children’s skin may result in skin irritation. Even adults must blend carrier oil before applying it over the face.
Though it’s marked safe for pregnant women by WebMD.com, it’s safe to consult a physician before using it.
Diabetic patients must use this oil with utmost care. Studies show that it might lower blood sugar levels too much.
Avoid its use if you’re under medication or after surgery.
Important Points
Psoriasis is a chronic skin ailment, which can’t be treated permanently.
Yes, you read it right. Even steroid creams or medication prescribed by physicians can’t do this.
However, these medications and home remedies can reduce psoriasis symptoms. But, when you ingest food or get exposed to irritants dry scalp patches appear once again.
Discuss with your physician on how to prevent this skin ailment and also take vitamin rich food.
Alcohol, excess exposure to the sun, cold weather, stress, obesity, smoking and certain medications must be avoided to treat psoriasis. (More on diet and psoriasis)
Did you ever use eucalyptus oil for psoriasis? Please share your experience in comments.
