Living with psoriasis often means exploring different treatment options. Many people look for dietary supplements that may help reduce inflammation and improve skin health.
In this article, we’ll look at what research tells us about supplements for psoriasis, and other natural compounds that show promise.
Table of Contents
Supplements for Psoriasis
Some Supplements have been extensively studied and have shown some promise in improving psoriasis symptoms.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Fish Oil
Omega-3 fatty acids are among the most studied supplements for psoriasis. These healthy fats, found primarily in fish oil, help reduce inflammation throughout your body.
Research shows that omega-3 supplements can help psoriasis in several ways. A comprehensive analysis found that omega-3 supplementation significantly reduced psoriasis severity scores, redness, and scaling. The benefits were greater with higher doses (1).
In a classic study, patients took 10 fish oil capsules daily for 8 weeks. Those taking fish oil experienced significant improvements in itching, redness, and scaling compared to those taking olive oil (2).
Fish oil may also protect kidney function in people taking cyclosporine for psoriasis. A pilot study found that patients taking fish oil with cyclosporine had better preserved kidney function (3).
Probiotics
The connection between gut health and psoriasis has become increasingly clear. Research shows that people with psoriasis have different gut bacteria compared to healthy individuals, and probiotics may help restore this balance.
A systematic review confirmed that the gut microbiome differs significantly in people with psoriatic diseases (4).
Several studies show promising results. A 12-week trial found impressive results with a probiotic mixture. About 67% of patients taking probiotics achieved major improvements, compared to only 42% in the placebo group (5).
Another study found that probiotics improved quality of life and reduced inflammation markers. People taking probiotics had better scores on depression questionnaires and skin-related quality of life measures (6).
A specific strain called Bifidobacterium infantis 35624 has been particularly well-studied. This strain reduced inflammatory markers in patients with various conditions including psoriasis (7).
Other Promising Supplements
Several other supplements have shown potential benefits for psoriasis, though they often need more research.
Essential Phospholipids
Essential phospholipids are building blocks of cell membranes. One study tested their effects when added to standard psoriasis treatment. Patients receiving both conventional treatment and essential phospholipids had better improvements in psoriasis scores and quality of life (8).
Genistein
Genistein is an isoflavone found in soybeans with anti-inflammatory properties. Early research suggests it may help psoriasis. One clinical study found that genistein supplementation reduced clinical psoriasis scores and inflammatory markers in the blood (9).
Polypodium Leucotomos Extract
This extract from a tropical fern has anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties. While it’s been studied for various skin conditions, specific research on psoriasis is limited. A systematic review noted its photoprotective properties and good safety profile (10).
Glycocalyx Dietary Supplement
People with psoriasis have increased cardiovascular risk. A glycocalyx supplement containing special sugars was tested for its effects on blood vessel health. Patients taking the supplement for 4 months showed improvements in blood vessel function and arterial stiffness (11).
Inositol (Only for Lithium-Related Psoriasis)
Inositol has a very specific use – it only helps people who develop psoriasis from taking lithium (a mood stabilizer medication). A study found that inositol helped those taking lithium but had no effect on regular psoriasis (12).
How to Choose and Use Supplements Safely
If you’re considering supplements for psoriasis, follow these guidelines:
1. Start with proven options. Based on current research, omega-3 fatty acids and probiotics have the strongest evidence.
2. Check the dose. Many studies used specific doses to achieve results:
- Omega-3s: 1.8-4.2 grams of EPA + DHA daily
- Probiotics: At least 1-10 billion CFU daily
3. Give it time. Most supplements need at least 8-12 weeks to show effects.
4. Don’t stop your medications. Supplements should complement, not replace, your prescribed psoriasis treatments.
The Bottom Line
Research on supplements for psoriasis reveals several promising options. Omega-3 fatty acids and probiotics stand out with the strongest evidence for improving psoriasis symptoms and quality of life.
Other supplements like essential phospholipids and genistein show potential but need more research. Some supplements, like inositol, only help in very specific situations.
Remember that supplements work differently for everyone. The key is to choose evidence-based options, use quality products at proper doses, be patient, and work with your healthcare team. Supplements can be valuable additions to your psoriasis management plan, but they work best as part of a comprehensive approach.