Scalp Psoriasis Can Be Improved with Turmeric Tonic

Scalp psoriasis is characterized by lesions on the scalp, which are known to have detrimental effects on sufferers' quality of life. Being a chronic inflammatory skin disorder, psoriasis requires long-term treatment, which is not always successful.

Because its wide range of potent therapeutic properties, turmeric is an interesting option for alternative formulations for skin conditions. While it has not been studied specifically for scalp lesions, some studies have found that it can significantly reduce psoriasis progression.¹ 

The aim of this study was to investigate whether topical applications of turmeric tonic can be used to treat scalp psoriasis.

The Study

This randomized clinical trial was conducted at the Skin and Stem Cell Research Center at Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.

Participants were 40 adults with mild to moderate scalp psoriasis. The experimental group, consisting of half of the adults, received turmeric tonic twice a day for nine weeks. The other half (the control group) received a similar placebo tonic without turmeric.

Assessments were done before the study as well as at weeks 3, 6, and 9 via medical photographs, dermatology life quality index (DLQI) questionnaire, and psoriasis area & severity index (PASI) scores.

The Results

Participants in the experimental group showed significant reductions in erythema, scaling, and induration of lesions as well as overall areas of scalp covered in lesions.

Adults taking turmeric tonic also reported improved quality of life relative to those in the placebo group.

No serious side effects were reported by the participants.

What Does this Mean?

The results of this clinical trial show that turmeric tonic can improve scalp psoriasis. This opens doors to new therapeutic formulations aimed at managing the disease and improving quality of life.

Researchers encourage using turmeric tonic for scalp lesions, either on its own or alongside other treatments.

Other herbs that may be helpful for people with psoriasis are chamomile, cayenne, and aloe vera.