Psoriasis affects a significant percentage of the population, so it’s not surprising that so much time and effort is being poured into finding effective treatments. There are a number of soothing, botanical treatments, for example, which medical professionals recommend. Aloe vera, which is already familiar to many can be particularly effective for soothing irritated skin.  Aloe is natural, thus posing minimal side effects, all the while offering effective relief for irritated, psoriatic skin.

Aloe vera is commonly used to soothe different kinds of skin irritations including sunburns or poison ivy. It  has also been shown to reduce the effects of insect bites or stings, making it an essential product to have at home or when going out into the woods.

At present Aloe is being used as a main ingredient for ointments and creams designed specifically to treat psoriasis. Aloe vera can be used to make therapeutic gels, for example, which can be applied directly to psoriatic outbreaks.

While the exact mechanism by which psoriasis and aloe vera interact is not entirely understood, both anecdotal and experimental evidence supports the claim that aloe is an effective treatment. A 1995 study undertaken in Belgium showed that approximately 88% of those patients who used a topical aloe vera cream on portions of their skin affected by psoriasis found relief, compared to only 6% of those who took the placebo. A variety of different studies have supported the conclusion that aloe vera is an effective balm for irritated skin – now psoriasis can be added to the list of conditions it combats.

It’s recommended that any patients using this treatment apply psoriasis aloe vera gel or moisturizer to the affected area about three times per day for a minimum of four weeks. While results can take some time, most users report a reduction in itching and burning, and improved cosmetic appearance of the skin. There are also no known side effects to this plant; medical specialists agree that Aloe is generally safe for children as well, who can be some of the most negatively impacted by psoriasis. The most effective way to apply aloe can be via the leaves directly, which can also be cost effective and refreshing. There is no need to go out shopping for special ointments if you already have aloe vera growing at your house (here in Arizona that might be more common than elsewhere).