Understanding the historical use of baking soda, it’s easy to see how it could be beneficial in alleviating certain symptoms of skin conditions, such as psoriasis.
Baking soda can be a useful natural remedy to relieve psoriasis symptoms, even when other options are available. In fact, it may be one of the most effective natural remedies.
If you’re interested in learning about the best ways to use baking soda to help with psoriasis symptoms, keep reading for more information.
Benefits of Using Baking Soda for Psoriasis
Baking soda can offer several benefits for those with psoriasis. Some of the benefits include:
- Soothing Itching and Redness: Baking soda has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce itching and redness associated with psoriasis.
- Exfoliating: Baking soda can help remove dead skin cells, which is important for those with psoriasis as it can help prevent the buildup of scales and plaques.
- Reducing Inflammation: Baking soda can help to reduce inflammation in the skin, which is an important factor in managing psoriasis symptoms.
- Balancing pH: Baking soda can help to balance the pH level of the skin, which is important for those with psoriasis as their skin can often be more acidic than normal skin.
- Easy to Use: Baking soda is an inexpensive and easy-to-find remedy, making it a convenient choice for those looking for natural ways to manage psoriasis symptoms.
How to use Baking Soda for Alleviating Psoriasis Symptoms
Baking soda can be used in a variety of ways to help manage psoriasis symptoms. Here are some ways to use baking soda for psoriasis:
- Baking Soda Bath: Add 1 cup of baking soda to a warm bath and soak for 15-20 minutes. This can help soothe itching and redness, as well as exfoliate and soften the skin.
- Baking Soda Paste: Mix 1-2 tablespoons of baking soda with enough water to form a paste. Apply the paste to the affected areas and leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off with water. This can help reduce inflammation and redness.
- Baking Soda and Coconut Oil: Mix equal parts baking soda and coconut oil to form a paste. Apply the mixture to the affected areas and leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off with water. This can help exfoliate and moisturize the skin.
- Baking Soda and Apple Cider Vinegar: Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and enough water to form a paste. Apply the paste to the affected areas and leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off with water. This can help balance the pH of the skin and reduce inflammation.
It’s important to patch test any new treatments before applying them to larger areas of the skin.
Tips to Maximize the Benefits of Baking Soda for Psoriasis Treatment
While baking soda can be a helpful natural remedy for psoriasis, there are a few ways to boost its effectiveness for even better results. Here are some tips:
- Combine with other natural remedies: Baking soda can be combined with other natural remedies, such as oatmeal, coconut oil, and aloe vera, to increase its effectiveness. For example, mixing baking soda with oatmeal can create a soothing bath soak that can help relieve itching and redness.
- Use consistently: Consistent use of baking soda can help improve psoriasis symptoms over time. Incorporate baking soda into your daily skincare routine, either as a paste or a bath soak, to see long-term results.
- Follow a healthy diet: A healthy diet can also help improve psoriasis symptoms. Avoid trigger foods, such as processed foods and sugar, and incorporate anti-inflammatory foods, such as leafy greens, berries, and fatty fish, into your diet.
- Manage stress: Stress can trigger psoriasis flare-ups, so finding ways to manage stress can be beneficial. Incorporate relaxation techniques, such as yoga and meditation, into your daily routine.
Remember to always talk to a healthcare professional before trying any new treatments.
Side Effects of Baking Soda for Psoriasis
baking soda can offer several benefits for psoriasis, there are also some potential side effects to be aware of. Here are some of the possible side effects of using baking soda for psoriasis:
- Skin Irritation: Baking soda can cause skin irritation in some people, especially those with sensitive skin. It’s important to patch test any new treatments before applying them to larger areas of the skin.
- Dryness: Baking soda can be drying to the skin, which can exacerbate psoriasis symptoms. It’s important to moisturize the skin after using baking soda treatments.
- pH Imbalance: While baking soda can help balance the pH of the skin, using it too frequently can actually disrupt the natural pH balance of the skin, leading to further irritation.
- Allergic Reaction: In rare cases, some people may have an allergic reaction to baking soda. If you experience any symptoms such as itching, redness, or swelling, discontinue use immediately.
FAQs
Can you treat psoriasis with baking soda?
Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) may provide relief for some people with psoriasis when used in a bath, but there is no scientific evidence to support its effectiveness. However, it is unlikely to cause harm.
Does baking soda help with skin inflammation?
Baking soda can soothe inflamed and itchy skin. A lukewarm or cool bath with baking soda, and adding oatmeal or using cool compresses can help reduce psoriasis symptoms.
How long can you leave baking soda on your skin?
When using baking soda as a facial mask or exfoliant, leave it on for 10-15 minutes or rinse immediately after massaging. Apply moisturizer after use to prevent dryness. Limit use to twice a week to avoid over-exfoliation.
Is it safe to use baking soda on skin everyday?
To avoid drying or irritating your skin, limit baking soda exfoliation to 1-2 times per week. This will help remove dead skin cells and brighten your complexion. Remember to moisturize after use to hydrate your skin.
Is baking soda an antifungal?
Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is an affordable and eco-friendly antifungal agent that can be easily found at supermarkets. It is effective in treating black spots and fungal diseases like powdery mildew.