That said, it’s understandable that you would want to investigate natural ingredients and home remedies for psoriatic arthritis. A few words of caution: Always talk to your doctor before trying any new therapy, including “natural” ones, and ask exactly what dosage is appropriate. Dietary supplements are not regulated in the same way as prescription drugs, and the potency and purity of different brands can vary. Possible side effects are another concern, particularly when you combine supplements, use them in conjunction with prescription medication, or apply them directly to inflamed skin. Keep in mind that natural remedies are no substitute for prescription medication, says Shakaib Qureshi, MD, a rheumatologist at Uintah Basin Healthcare in Roosevelt, Utah. “If not properly diagnosed and treated early and, if warranted, aggressively, psoriatic arthritis can be a very destructive disease,” he warns. Dr. Quereshi cautions that it is important to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after rubbing the cream or lotion on joints, since it may damage skin lesions (and you definitely don’t want to get it in your eyes).
2. Boxberry Extract
The boxberry plant, also known as Eastern teaberry and wintergreen, has long been used by Native Americans as an anti-inflammatory. According to a study published in April 2019 in the International Journal of Molecular Science, extract of methyl salicylate, found in the leaves and stems of boxberry and related plants, seems to have anti-inflammatory effects in some patients, including those with rheumatoid arthritis. Before you go foraging for boxberry, know that methyl salicylate is an ingredient in some analgesic (pain-relieving) rubs like Arthricare Cream; always apply these products according to package directions. To apply, simply dissolve in water. This releases the magnesium and sulfate, ingredients key to most spa mineral baths. Researchers in Italy have found that mineral baths are a good way to improve joint and spine symptoms in people with psoriatic arthritis, according to a report in the December 2018 issue of International Journal of Biometerology, though research is limited, so of course don’t expect a miracle cure. (But at least you’ll have taken a relaxing bath!)
4. Aloe Vera
Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, this plant gel is often used for relief from sunburn pain and can soothe psoriatic arthritis skin symptoms as well. A study published in July 2019 in the journal Phytomedicine found that aloe vera has the potential to treat symptoms of diseases, including those caused by inflammation. More research is needed to fully understand aloe’s therapeutic potential. Apply aloe gel or cream to skin after showering and washing your hands. For the best results, be sure any topical solution you choose contains at least 0.5 percent aloe, the National Psoriasis Foundation says. Though aloe is also available in pill form, note that supplements may interact with certain diabetes drugs and other medication, so it’s better to avoid them. RELATED: The Consumer’s Guide to Biologics for Psoriasis
5. Fish Oil
Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, which the body converts into anti-inflammatory chemicals. You can find it in cold-water fatty fish such as mackerel, salmon, herring, tuna, halibut, and cod. A Mediterranean diet, including fish oil, has been shown to reduce pain in rheumatoid arthritis patients who have swollen and tender joints, according to a study in the November 2018 issue of Autoimmunity Reviews, but more research is needed to confirm that fish oil reduces inflammation and stiffness, according to Qureshi. Another caveat: If you’re on blood thinners, know that fish oil can also thin your blood. Some doctors recommend prescription fish oil supplements to their patients with psoriatic arthritis, the Arthritis Foundation says, with an optimal dose of at least 1,000 milligrams (mg) a day. When shopping for OTC supplements, the foundation suggests looking for those labeled “high potency.” RELATED: 14 Foods to Eat or Avoid for Psoriatic Arthritis
6. Curcumin
Curcumin, the active ingredient in the spice turmeric, may help relieve arthritis symptoms because of its anti-inflammatory effects, according to a literature review that appeared in the May 2019 issue of Nutrients. While more research is needed, curcumin supplementation appears to offer some relief, the authors wrote. You can find curcumin in supplements as well as in foods flavored with turmeric, such as curries, according to the National Psoriasis Foundation.
7. Willow Bark
There’s some evidence that the bark of certain species of Salix trees — commonly known as willow — can ease inflammation and arthritis-related symptoms. Indeed, extracts from purple, crack, white, violet, and bay willow trees have been used for treating these conditions for centuries, according to Versus Arthritis, an arthritis charity in the United Kingdom. Salicin, willow bark’s active ingredient, can reduce the production of pain-inducing chemicals in the nerves, Qureshi says. It’s available over the counter in tablet form. While generally safe, it may cause stomach upset, increased blood pressure, and skin rashes so you’ll definitely want to check with your doctor before using.
8. Probiotics
Probiotics are friendly bacteria found in foods such as yogurt as well as in supplement form. The jury is still out on whether probiotics reduce inflammation associated with arthritis. A study in the October 2018 issue of Nutrients pointed to evidence that probiotics may ease inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis. But a study published in American College of Rheumatology (ACR) Open Rheumatology in June 2020 found that probiotics did not significantly lessen joint pain in patients with psoriatic arthritis. So while they may help your gut, you might want to look elsewhere for relief from joint discomfort.
9. Boswellia
More commonly known as Indian frankincense, Boswellia has been shown to have an anti-inflammatory effect on some conditions, including arthritis, according to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) in New York. A study published in the May 2019 issue of Phytotherapy Research found that patients with osteoarthritis who took supplements containing Boswellia extract reported less pain and stiffness in their knees than those who took a placebo. But before you turn to topical creams with Boswellia, note that they may irritate psoriasis. Boswellia can also increase your risk of bleeding if you’re on blood thinners, according to MSK.
10. Vitamin D
There is a correlation between psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and low vitamin D levels, according to a review of the literature published in January-February 2018 in the International Journal of Health Science. While researchers are still looking for conclusive evidence that low levels of vitamin D may trigger or exacerbate the severity of psoriatic arthritis, Qureshi suggests asking your doctor to test your vitamin D levels. Depending on the results, you may want to discuss whether taking vitamin D supplements could help ease your symptoms. Good food sources of vitamin D include salmon and fortified foods such as milk. RELATED: 10 Illnesses Linked to Vitamin D Deficiency Additional reporting by Beth W. Orenstein.
