Can coconut oil treat psoriasis?
According to the National Psoriasis Foundation:
According to an article from Harvard University, coconut oil is starting to be considered as a treatment for psoriasis.
Coconut oil is composed of a group of unique fat molecules known as medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA). Although they are technically classified as saturated fats, this kind fat can actually protect the heart.
Coconut oil also has potent antibacterial properties, which means that it can help other conditions too, including conditions of the skin.
We reported last year on how coconut oil can treat dermatitis. A study published in the International Journal of Dermatology showed that coconut oil caused significant improvement in dermatitis patients. Dermatitis is another skin condition that causes inflammation.
Coconut oil helps reduce inflammation. It also helps relieve the dryness from psoriasis on the skin.
The fatty acids in coconut oil also may help sooth the skin and make it smoother.
Coconut oil also contains lauric acid, which has antimicrobial properties and may help prevent skin infections and irritation.
Can coconut oil treat psoriasis?
With psoriasis, the patches can become dry and itchy. Traditional topical treatment can dry the skin even more. Doctors will often recommend applying moisturizers.
Coconut oil is a great natural moisturizer if you want to stay away from commercial moisturizers, which may contain harsh chemicals.
The National Psoriasis Foundation recommends massaging oil onto the scalp if a person has scalp plaques.
They also recommend adding coconut oil to a bath to help sooth the skin.
Make sure the bath water is not too hot, and to pat the skin dry and not rub it.
Before using coconut oil to treat psoriasis, you must see your health practitioner or physician to make sure it is right for you. DO NOT stop prescribed treatment from and use coconut oil alone unless your doctor recommends it.
Note: None of the information in our website is intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any illness or disease. The content on our website is for educational purposes only.
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REFERENCES:
1. “Can Coconut Oil Help Treat Psoriasis?” Medical News Today. MediLexicon International, n.d. Web. 07 Dec. 2016.
2. “Ask the Doctor: Coconut Oil – Harvard Health.” Harvard Health. Harvard Health Publications, n.d. Web. 07 Dec. 2016.
3. “About Psoriasis.” National Psoriasis Foundation. National Psoriasis Foundation, n.d. Web. 07 Dec. 2016.
4. “Virgin Coconut Oil Is Superior to Mineral Oil in Treating Atopic Dermatitis in a Pediatric Population.” GreenMedInfo.com. GreenMedInfo.com, n.d. Web. 07 Dec. 2016.
