Using aloe vera to treat psoriasis
The question occurred to me lately, "Can aloe vera be used to treat psoriasis?"
A quick Google search led me to find out that aloe vera is indeed used as a psoriasis treatment.
It's also easy to use. One web site mentions that it can be used topically:
"You may use the gel fresh from the plant grown in your garden or purchase aloe vera cream.The cream or gel must be applied to the affected area 3 times daily for 5 consecutive days at a time and for a minimum of 4 weeks." Psoriasis can Successfully be Treated Naturally. (2010, August 22). Retrieved August 22 2010, from Suite101 website: http://herbalmedicine.suite101.com/article.cfm/psoriasis_and_aloe_vera
That same web site also mentions research done in Belgium that demonstrates the effectiveness of aloe vera in the treatment of psoriasis:
"In a study done in Belgium in 1995 using 60 psoriasis patients, a double blind placebo-controlled study showed that Aloe vera had a cure rate of 83.3% compared to placebo at 6.6%. Patients psoriasis plaques were seen to be reduced in number and there was reduced discoloration. Overall there was a significant reduction in all aspects of the psoriasis." Psoriasis can Successfully be Treated Naturally. (2010, August 22). Retrieved August 22 2010, from Suite101 website: http://herbalmedicine.suite101.com/article.cfm/psoriasis_and_aloe_vera
Another study may suggest that Aloe Vera may be more effective than 0.1% triamcinolone acetonide for treating mild to moderate psoriasis.
"CONCLUSIONS: AV cream may be more effective than 0.1% TA cream in reducing the clinical symptoms of psoriasis; however, both treatments have similar efficacy in improving the quality of life of patients with mild to moderate psoriasis." Pubmeddev. (2010, August 22). A prospective, randomized clinical trial comparing... [J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2010]. Retrieved August 22 2010, from PubMed result website: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19686327
Sarah Altschul also mentions a study showing the effectiveness of aloe vera on the treatment of psoriasis on her health.com blog:
"According to a recent study, treatment with aloe led to a greater reduction in psoriasis severity when compared with a topical steroid cream." Altshul, L. (2010, August 22). Can Homegrown Aloe Help Treat Psoriasis? - Psoriasis. Retrieved August 22 2010, from Health.com website: http://www.health.com/health/condition-article/0,,20290628,00.html
So it looks like it's clear that aloe vera is definitely worth investigating if you need an effective treatment for psoriasis.