Essential oils used to alleviate psoriasis?

The essential oils of chamomile and yarrow are composed of a hydrocarbon, chamazulene, which is an anti-inflammatory compound. Additionally, they contain γ-linolenic acids which have been shown to play a role in inhibiting the generation of leukotriene B4, a significant pro-inflammatory metabolite of arachidonic acid known to accumulate in psoriasis lesions. Therefore, these essential oils have proven interesting for conducting further research to understand their effectiveness in relieving psoriasis.

A study on psoriasis lesions induced by imiquimod (IMQ) in mice has shown that the essential oil of Perilla frutescens downregulates immune cytokines IL-17, IL-22, IL-23, IFN-α, IFN-γ and pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-6 and IL-1. However, clinical studies on psoriatic skin would allow conclusions to be drawn on the real effectiveness of this essential oil.

Thetea tree essential oil is derived from the leaves of the tea tree. Terpinen-4-ol is the primary component of this essential oil and it exhibits potent anti-inflammatory properties. Indeed, it is capable of reducing the production of TNF-, IL-1, IL-8 and PGE 2. PGE2 is a prostaglandin that plays a role in the inflammatory process and it has been demonstrated that its presence was higher in patients suffering from psoriasis. Furthermore, terpinen-4-ol can modulate vasodilation and plasma extravasation, helping to soothe inflammation.

The essential oil of cade can aid in alleviating the symptoms of psoriasis due to its anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antiseptic properties. Cade essential oil contains a high percentage of cadinene, a sesquiterpene, which can be utilised in the case of psoriasis. However, there are still too few studies that have been conducted to demonstrate the benefits and effectiveness of this oil on psoriasis.

Theessential oil of lavender, due to its analgesic, healing and anti-inflammatory properties, presents an interesting alternative for alleviating the symptoms of psoriasis. Notably, a study has shown that thelinalyl acetate and linalool and linalool, compounds found in this essential oil, have been observed to significantly reduce the levels of TNF-α and IL-6, inflammatory molecules that are present in higher quantities in individuals suffering from psoriasis.