Use Herbs to Support the Health of Your Scalp
Many herbs support detoxification processes which lead to less irritation of your scalp. They work most effectively when used consistently. It may take a month or two of regular use before you see benefits.
While you may consume herbs in a variety of forms, when treating psoriasis, I recommend the use of herbal teas. If they are not convenient, then dried or freeze dried herbal capsules are excellent options. Burdock, dandelion, and yellow dock are outstanding herbs to use for the treatment of psoriasis. If you are making a tea, burdock root is the most palatable of the three herbs.
Herbs may be used to reduce histamine production and itchiness. Some of the most effective herbs which relieve irritability and itchiness include lemon balm, skullcap, oat straw and German chamomile. These are mild tasting herbs which may be enjoyed freely as herbal teas.
You may opt to make a tea from any of the herbs which promote relaxation and use the tea as a scalp rinse. I recommend that you apply the tea at a tepid temperature if using it as a rinse.
Chickweed provides Free, Soothing Relief of Scalp Psoriasis
If you live in a temperate climate, you may recognize the common weed called chickweed growing on your lawn. Chickweed is best used while it is fresh. The herb provides soothing, cooling relief when applied directly to scalp lesions. Chickweed reduces inflammation, itchiness, plaque formation and cracking.
You may also consume chickweed internally in salads or smoothies. Chickweed is a rich source of the vitamins and minerals which your scalp needs for healing.
If you gather chickweed or other wild plants, be sure that you correctly identify the herb, and only gather it from locations which are clean and not exposed to chemical pesticides or fertilizers. Gather herbs only if the plants are abundant. You can dry chickweed for future use, but I do not think that it is as effective.
Consider making herbal oil by adding fresh chickweed to evening primrose oil. Be sure that the herb is completely covered by the oil. Place a cover on the container. Shake the container twice daily for two weeks. After two weeks discard the herbs. Use the chickweed/primrose oil in the scalp oil recipe provided above.
Keep your Scalp Healthy
Limiting your scalp’s exposure to stress and chemicals is an important part of a treatment plan to reduce lesion formation and irritation. Here are some tips for reducing the amount of stress which your scalp is exposed to.
- Wash your hair no more often than every other day.
- When you dry your hair, use a patting rather than rubbing motion. Better yet, let your hair dry naturally. Limit excessive use of hair dryers.
- Do not use curling wands or electric hair straighteners.
- Read hair care product labels carefully. Opt for hypoallergenic, organic, shampoos, conditioners, and styling products. Do not purchase hair-care products which contain alcohol, as they can dry and sting your sensitive scalp.
- Protect your scalp for excessive exposure to the sun and very cold temperatures.
- Do not have your hair chemically processed. Scalp psoriasis and hair dye, permanent waves, hair straightening, and bleaching should be avoided, as they are too irritating for your scalp. They may increase symptoms, particularly discomfort.
Use these internal and topical remedies to manage your scalp psoriasis. Within a short period of time your lesions will diminish, you will feel more comfortable, and your scalp and hair will look and feel better than they have in a long time.
