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22 Natural Treatment Options for

Psoriatic Arthritis Relief
Medically reviewed by Nancy Carteron, M.D., FACR, Rheumatology -
Immunology — By Stephanie Watson and Kerry Weiss — Updated on
January 29, 2024

Supplements Topical therapies Bodywork Stress relief

Overall well-being Takeaway

Consult with a healthcare professional before trying any

complementary, alternative, or natural therapies for
psoriatic arthritis or psoriasis. Some remedies can cause
side effects or interact with prescription medication.

Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic, inflammatory type of arthritis that leads to

symptoms like joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.

There’s no cure for psoriatic arthritis, but it is treatable. Following

your prescribed treatment plan can help you manage symptoms,
preserve joint function, and prevent disease progression.

Outside of treatment, many people look for additional steps they can take
to manage their condition and alleviate joint pain and stiffness as well as
any related skin symptoms from psoriasis.

These remedies may help you find relief.

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Herbs, spices, and supplements
Natural and herbal remedies haven’t been shown to cure psoriatic
arthritis, but a few may help ease your symptoms.

1. Turmeric (curcumin)

Turmeric is a yellow spice used in various cuisines, especially Indian

food. It’s well known for its anti-inflammatory properties.

You can eat foods with turmeric, such as Indian curries, or make turmeric
tea. You can also take turmeric in pill form.

Look for supplements containing curcumin, an active ingredient in

turmeric. Curcumin has been shown to block cytokines and enzymes that
cause inflammation.

A 2016 review of several published studies found evidence supporting the

effectiveness of turmeric (roughly 1,000 milligrams per day of curcumin)
for improving arthritis symptoms like pain and stiffness.

High doses of turmeric can thin your blood. It’s recommended that
you don’t take turmeric or curcumin if you:

take a blood thinner like warfarin (Coumadin)

have an upcoming surgery

are pregnant

If you develop stomach pain or discomfort while taking turmeric

supplements or eating turmeric, discontinue use and consult with a
healthcare professional.

2. Fish oil AD VER T I SEM EN T

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Fish oil is high in anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids.

A 2018 study showed that taking a daily fish oil supplement may improve
joint tenderness and stiffness enough to help people with psoriatic
arthritis reduce their dependence on nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory
drugs.

Fish oil supplements might also improve heart function and protect
against heart disease, according to a 2016 study. This could be an
important finding since people with psoriatic arthritis are at higher risk for
heart disease.

To add more omega-3s to your diet, increase your intake of fatty fish, like
salmon, tuna, halibut, and cod, or take a fish oil supplement.

High levels of fish oil can interfere with some medications, such as
warfarin (Coumadin).

Due to potentially dangerous levels of mercury, those who are pregnant

or trying to conceive should avoid eating certain fish, such as:

shark

swordfish

king mackerel

albacore tuna

If you develop unusual or more frequent bruising, it may be necessary to

decrease your intake. Discontinue use and consult with a healthcare
professional to learn more.

3. Vitamin D

Research suggests that some people with psoriatic arthritis have a

vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D is especially important for bone health.

Take steps to increase your vitamin D intake through sun exposure and
food sources like milk, fortified juice, and fortified cereals. Your doctor
may recommend a vitamin D supplement.
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4. Ginger
Ginger has not been studied for psoriatic arthritis specifically, but it has
been shown to reduce pain and inflammation in osteoarthritis and
rheumatoid arthritis.

Consider trying ginger tea or topical essential oils diluted in a carrier oil
to see if it helps you find relief.

Soaks, creams, oils, and other topical therapies

Psoriatic arthritis affects about 30% of people with psoriasis. If
you’re also dealing with skin symptoms, these strategies may help
you find relief.

5. Heat and cold therapy

A warm soak can help soothe achy joints. Just keep it short and watch
the water temperature. Long, hot baths can dry out your skin. Keep the
water between 92–100°F (33–38°C), and don’t soak for more
than 20 minutes at a time.

In lieu of a bath, using a heating pad can help loosen joints and relax
aching muscles. Moist heat from a wet washcloth or warm bath can be
especially soothing to sore joints.

On the other hand, using a cold pack can help reduce swelling and pain.
Wrap the ice pack in a towel to avoid damaging your skin. You can
alternate heat with cold as needed to help with arthritis symptoms.

6. Epsom salts

Soaking affected joints in an Epsom salt bath may help reduce joint pain
and inflammation.

Magnesium, found in Epsom salts, has been shown to help boost bone
density and relieve psoriasis-related skin itch.

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7. Oats and Dead Sea salts
Applying an oat paste to your skin or bathing in an oatmeal bath may help
relieve psoriasis symptoms, though there’s no research to back
these claims.

Options like Dead Sea salts have a little more evidence behind them.

The Dead Sea is located in Israel, roughly 1,300 feet below sea level.
It’s full of minerals and is very salty. People have been soaking in the
Dead Sea for centuries to improve the appearance of their skin and
reduce inflammation.

Soothing a skin condition by bathing in mineral springs is known as

balneotherapy. Few studies have looked at this remedy for psoriatic
arthritis, but results have been promising.

If a trip to the Dead Sea isn’t feasible, you can purchase Dead Sea
salts online and add them to your bath.

8. Capsaicin

Capsaicin is a compound naturally found in spicy peppers. It helps with

arthritis pain by creating a numbing effect on pain receptors.

You can buy capsaicin ointments, gels, and creams in stores or online.
Rub this product on the skin near your painful joints.

You can also find capsaicin patches that work up to 8 hours when applied
directly to the skin. You might feel a burning sensation at first, but this
should lessen over time.

9. Oregon grape

Mahonia aquifolium, or Oregon grape, is a medicinal herb with germ-

killing properties.

A 2018 review of studies found that a cream or ointment containing 10%

Mahonia improved psoriasis symptoms with minimal side effects.
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10. Apple cider vinegar

Applying apple cider vinegar to your scalp several times a week may help
ease the itch of scalp psoriasis.

Create a solution with half water and half organic apple cider vinegar to
avoid side effects like burning. After applying, wait for it to dry, and then
rinse the solution off to prevent skin irritation.

Skip this regimen if you’re experiencing cracked, open wounds or

bleeding.

11. Tea tree oil

While no scientific studies have been conducted on using this native

Australian oil in psoriasis, some people have found it successful.

Believed to have antiseptic qualities, tea tree essential oil can be applied
to skin affected by psoriasis or used in shampoo as a scalp psoriasis
remedy. Be sure to spot test before applying liberally, as some people are
allergic to tea tree oil.

While research suggests health benefits, the FDA doesn’t monitor or

regulate the purity or quality of essential oils. It’s important to talk with
a healthcare professional before you begin using essential oils and be sure
to research the quality of a brand’s products. Always do a patch test
before trying a new essential oil.

12. Aloe vera

Aloe vera gel is possibly best known for soothing sunburns and helping
wounds heal.

One study found that some people who use a cream or aloe gel believe it
helps relieve some of the redness, swelling, and scaling associated with
psoriasis. Still, more research is needed.

The National Psoriasis Foundation recommends creams containing 0.5%

aloe. You can apply them up to 3 times daily. 
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13. Moisturizer
Moisturizing your skin is an essential step if you have psoriasis. It can
help relieve dry, flaky skin and promote healing.

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends heavier creams or

ointments instead of lotions. Make sure to choose one free of irritants
such as chemicals, fragrances, and dyes.

Make sure to moisturize at least once daily — more often if your skin is
particularly dry. Always apply after bathing or washing your hands to lock
in moisture.
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Other complementary and alternative therapies

Massage, acupuncture, and acupressure are just a few manipulative
therapies that can help with pain relief and relaxation.

14. Massage

Massage is used to relieve muscle tension and reduce stress. A 2016

review of studies found massage helpful for relieving pain and improving
strength and movement in people with arthritis.

However, it’s unclear whether massage is more effective than

treatments like acupuncture and chiropractic care.

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For best results,A Dfind
V E R Ta
I Smassage
EM EN T therapist who is trained to provide
services for people with chronic conditions like psoriatic arthritis.
15. Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine in which

practitioners place hair-thin needles into various pressure points around
the body.

Inserting these needles promotes the release of natural pain relievers like
serotonin and endorphins.

A 2014 review of research on acupuncture for osteoarthritis found that it

was helpful for relieving pain and improving movement and quality of life.
The use of acupuncture hasn’t been specifically studied for psoriatic
arthritis.

If you want to try this technique, see a licensed acupuncturist with

experience in treating psoriatic arthritis. It’s important that they use
clean needles and do not insert them into areas of skin with active flares.

16. Acupressure

Acupressure is the practice of applying pressure to specific areas of the

body. It’s similar to acupuncture without the use of needles or
massage.

While there’s no evidence to support the use of acupressure for

psoriatic arthritis, it has been shown to help knee osteoarthritis. It can
help release muscle tension and reduce pain.

If you want to try acupressure, find a therapist who is experienced in

providing services for people with chronic conditions like psoriatic
arthritis.

Stress reduction
The relationship between stress and psoriatic arthritis is cyclical.

Living with a chronic condition like psoriatic arthritis can be stressful, and 
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stress is a known psoriatic arthritis trigger. Meanwhile, stress can make
you more sensitive to symptoms like joint pain.
Finding ways to cope with stress can help.

17. Meditation

While researchers haven’t specifically looked into the effect

meditation has on psoriatic arthritis, evidence from a 2019 study
suggests that mindfulness meditation can help reduce stress.

That includes practices such as focusing on breathing and mental

relaxation.

18. Relaxation techniques

Prioritize making time each day to focus on relaxation. You can try
practicing yoga, listening to music, reading a book, or journaling. You
may find that these strategies are helpful for managing stress.

Diet, exercise, and other tips for living well with

psoriatic arthritis

19. Diet

Eating a healthy diet may help you manage psoriatic arthritis and
psoriasis and reduce your risk of related health issues like heart disease.

It can also help you reach and maintain a healthy weight, which can help
take unnecessary stress off your joints.

There’s no exact diet for psoriatic arthritis or psoriasis, though some

recommend an anti-inflammatory diet. In general, focusing on a well-
rounded, nutrient-dense diet can help.

This involves incorporating a variety of these foods into your eating plan:

fruits

vegetables 
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healthy fats
 protein

low fat or nonfat dairy

whole grains

Ask your healthcare professional about specific vitamins or nutrients that

may be helpful for you. Your doctor may also recommend working with a
dietitian to develop an eating plan that works best for you.

20. Exercise

Regular exercise has many benefits for people with psoriatic arthritis,
including:

preventing joint stiffness

improving muscle strength, which can make daily tasks a little

easier

reducing stress and improving overall mood

maintaining bone density

reducing fatigue

promoting weight loss, which takes pressure off joints

lowering the risk of heart disease and diabetes

Low-impact exercises are the easiest on painful joints. Swimming, yoga,

Pilates, tai chi, walking, and cycling are good options.

Resistance training strengthens the muscles that support painful joints.

A 2018 study found that twice-weekly resistance training sessions

improved functional ability, disease activity, and quality of life in people
with psoriatic arthritis.

Stretching is another vital part of a psoriatic arthritis exercise plan. It

prevents tightness and keeps you limber. Plus, it helps you avoid injuries
when you exercise.
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Work with a physical therapist or qualified personal trainer to develop an

exercise routine that works for you.
21. Sleep

Fatigue is a common issue for people with psoriatic arthritis. Part of the
reason for this pervasive tiredness is a lack of sleep.

A 2019 study looked at sleep patterns in people with psoriasis and

psoriatic arthritis. Nearly 60% of participants had trouble sleeping, and
more than 38% said they didn’t get quality sleep.

Getting enough sleep is important for preventing fatigue and improving

your overall mood and quality of life.

Here are some tips for creating proper sleep hygiene to help ensure a
good night’s sleep:

Avoid caffeine and alcohol late in the day.

Exercise during the day.

Keep your room dark and cool.

Turn off all screens an hour before bedtime.

Avoid big meals before bed.

Take a relaxing bath or shower before bed.

Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day.

Getting the right treatment for psoriatic arthritis will also help you sleep
better. It may be that another treatable condition, like sleep apnea, is
keeping you awake.

If you still aren’t getting enough rest, ask your doctor for
recommendations, such as a referral to a sleep specialist.

22. Cut back or quit smoking tobacco products

There’s an established link between smoking cigarettes or vaping

nicotine and the development of psoriatic arthritis. Smoking can also
trigger symptom flares.
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It’s never too late to quit. If you’re having trouble quitting, consult
with a healthcare professional who can recommend smoking cessation
aids that can help.
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The bottom line

A combination of the right psoriatic arthritis medications and natural, at-
home remedies can help you manage joint pain, stiffness, and swelling,
as well as skin symptoms from psoriasis.

Always speak with a healthcare professional before trying natural or

alternative therapies, especially if you’re taking medications.

Even if a natural remedy improves your symptoms, don’t stop taking

your prescribed medication without consulting your doctor first.

Last medically reviewed on January 29, 2024

How we reviewed this article:

SOURCES HISTORY

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we
update our articles when new information becomes available.
Current Version
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Jan 29, 2024
 Written By
Stephanie Watson, Kerry Weiss

Edited By
Tess Catlett

Medically Reviewed By
Nancy Carteron, MD, FACR

Copy Edited By
Naomi Farr

Oct 27, 2021

Written By
Stephanie Watson, Kerry Weiss

Edited By
Kerry Weiss

Medically Reviewed By
Stella Bard, MD

Copy Edited By
Jill Campbell

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