Introduction:
Does Coconut oil actually help psoriasis? – “Doctor, my grandmother is always telling me to use coconut oil. Will it help with my psoriasis?” This is possibly the most asked question from patients.
Some time ago, a middle-aged man came to my office with a jar of coconut oil. Smiling, he stated, “I have been using this every night because everyone else says that it is the best natural remedy for psoriasis.”
He is not asking if coconut oil is good. He wants to find out whether it is enough to treat psoriasis at home.
Why are so many people talking in favour of coconut oil?
Coconut oil has been in use for many generations to treat dry skin. Psoriasis causes patches of very dry skin, so naturally, everybody tries to use coconut oil in this situation. And they are not wrong in some scenarios. Coconut oil can improve skin hydration by retaining moisture. If the skin is well-hydrated, scaling becomes softer, itching reduces, and the skin is more comfortable.
In fact, for many patients, the effect is visible.
Can coconut oil treat psoriasis?
The short answer is no, not in any meaningful sense. Psoriasis is not just dry skin. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system causes skin cells to grow too fast.
Consequently, psoriasis leads to the formation of thick plaques, redness, and flaking skin.
While coconut oil can definitely help improve skin condition, it doesn’t solve the underlying immune imbalance that causes psoriasis.
In other words, coconut oil can control the symptoms of psoriasis, but cannot be considered a psoriasis treatment.
What does research say?
According to research, the use of moisturisers, including natural oils such as coconut oil, is beneficial for psoriasis treatment. The use of such products keeps the skin hydrated, thus:
1. Reducing the dryness,
2. Softening skin scales,
3. Contact with the skin being comfortable,
4. Reducing the sensation of itch,
5. Protecting the skin barrier from damage.
Nonetheless, currently there is no scientific evidence proving that the use of coconut oil can help get rid of psoriasis completely and stop subsequent outbreaks.
How do you use coconut oil?
Coconut oil application timing is important. I inform my patients that they should apply coconut oil as quickly as possible after bathing when their skin is still moist.
You do not need to use a lot of coconut oil to get its benefits. It is also important to remember that people have different skin types. If you feel irritation or any discomfort after using a natural or other remedy, it is better not to use it and talk to your doctor.
Things you should avoid doing
One of the things I see a lot is that my patients tend to replace prescribed medications with home remedies.
Another misconception people have is that natural means perfectly safe and useful for all.
Sometimes home remedies may support your skin, but you should go to a doctor and get proper treatment, & dont skip medicines.
The whole concept
Treating psoriasis is not an issue of finding a single miracle to cure psoriasis. It requires understanding personal triggers, keeping skin hydrated, living a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, and working with your doctor on a proper treatment plan unique to you.
Coconut oil can be an important part of this plan, but it is only one item on the list.
Conclusion:
Coconut oil can be an efficient moisturiser for a patient with psoriasis, reducing dryness, softening the scales, and providing comfort. Nonetheless, it is not a psoriasis treatment and should not be a substitute for a doctor’s treatment.
If you choose to use coconut oil, keep in mind that this is a supporting skincare product and not a solution on its own. Sometimes, simple home remedies work like a charm instead of a treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is coconut oil good for psoriasis?
Coconut oil may help relieve dryness, reduce scaling, and soothe itchy skin by improving skin hydration. However, it does not treat the underlying immune-related causes of psoriasis and should be used as supportive skin care rather than a replacement for medical treatment.
2. Can coconut oil cure psoriasis permanently?
No. There is no scientific evidence that coconut oil can cure psoriasis permanently. While it may help improve skin comfort and moisturization, psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated condition that requires proper medical evaluation and individualized treatment.
3. How should I apply coconut oil if I have psoriasis?
For best results, apply a thin layer of coconut oil immediately after bathing while your skin is still slightly damp. This helps lock in moisture and may reduce dryness and scaling. Avoid applying it to infected or severely irritated skin without consulting your doctor.
4. Can coconut oil prevent psoriasis flare-ups?
Coconut oil may help maintain the skin barrier and reduce dryness, but it cannot prevent psoriasis flare-ups on its own. Factors such as stress, infections, medications, lifestyle, and individual triggers also play an important role in psoriasis activity.
5. Should I stop my psoriasis medication if I start using coconut oil?
No. Coconut oil should not replace your prescribed psoriasis treatment. It can be used as part of a daily skin care routine, but any changes to your treatment plan should only be made after consulting your healthcare provider.
Written by –
This article is written by Dr. R. S. Sonawane.
M.D. (Homeopathy), DI (Homeopathy), London
Psoriasis Specialist Doctor in India
Dr. R. S. Sonawane is India’s first Homeopathic Psoriasis Specialist, with over 39 years of dedicated experience in treating psoriasis and related chronic skin conditions using a holistic, patient-focused approach. He holds advanced training in homeopathy and has helped tens of thousands of patients achieve long-term relief from psoriasis through personalized, immune-balancing treatment plans designed to address the root cause of the condition rather than just symptoms.
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