While traditional medical treatments exist to help sufferers of psoriasis find relief from the irritation and unattractive appearance of this common skin condition, some individuals prefer to use alternative methods. One popular home remedy to treat psoriasis is apple cider vinegar, either ingested or applied directly to the skin.

Vinegar-based Psoriasis Treatment

Psoriasis is a chronic disease that causes a buildup of skin cells, forming thick scales and inflamed red patches on the skin. Sufferers experience cycles of flare-ups and remission. Psoriasis can appear anywhere on the skin, but often presents itself on the scalp, fingernails and toenails, around sweat glands and inside the mouth. Skin infections, stress, smoking, alcohol and cold weather can all trigger outbreaks of psoriasis. While harmless, this condition can be unsightly and uncomfortable.

While there is no clinical support for the efficacy of vinegar in treating psoriasis, anecdotal evidence suggests many chronic sufferers have found relief from their symptoms through the use of apple cider vinegar. The National Psoriasis Foundation notes that some patients have reported success with using alternative psoriasis treatments, including apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar is a popular folk remedy for treating inflammation. To use it to treat psoriasis, add a cupful directly to bathwater before bathing as usual. Alternately, soak a cotton ball with vinegar and wipe it on the affected areas, or soak a compress in a mixture of vinegar and water and apply it directly to the skin. Fingernails and toenails affected by psoriasis can be soaked in a solution of apple cider vinegar and water for a few minutes daily.

Some prefer to take apple cider vinegar internally to attack psoriasis from inside the body. Drink a mixture of warm water and apple cider vinegar twice daily. Sweeten the mixture with honey to make it more palatable, if desired.

Other Treatments for Psoriasis

Other home remedies include daily baths to soothe irritation and slough off the scales formed by psoriasis, frequent use of heavy moisturizers, topical application of creams made from aloe vera extract and ingestion of fish oil supplements high in inflammation-fighting Omega-3 fatty acids. To find the best course of psoriasis treatment, consult a physician. A doctor may prescribe topical creams or oral medications to reduce irritation and correct the appearance of psoriasis-affected skin.