Does Manuka Honey Help Psoriasis?
Medically reviewed by William Truswell, MDMedically reviewed by William Truswell, MDSome initial anecdotal evidence suggests that manuka honey may be an effective home remedy for psoriasis, an autoimmune condition that causes inflamed, itchy, dry patches of skin. While there's no cure, many experts recommend combining at-home and medical treatments to help manage symptoms.Manuka honey is produced by bees pollinating the manuka bush, which is native to New Zealand. The nectar from the flowers of the manuka bush is high in methylglyoxal (or MG), a beneficial component. It differs from other honey varieties in that it's rich in antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties that may support wound healing, oral health, and more.
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How Manuka Honey Treats PsoriasisBecause manuka honey appears to impact the immune system and reduce inflammation, some experts suggest it could help manage psoriasis.Effects on the Immune SystemOther types of honey, including acacia and fir honeydew, positively impact the immune system. Researchers theorize that this happens when its sugars are fermented during the digestion process.Some animal studies suggest that manuka honey may have a supportive role in boosting immune system responses. However, additional evidence in human trials is needed to confirm these potential benefits and how they relate to psoriasis disease activity.Effects on InflammationWhile manuka honey may not treat the underlying causes of psoriasis, it may help reduce inflammation in various skin conditions. Research suggests that manuka honey:Boosts skin tissue regenerationDecreases pain levels for skin burnsSupports skin wound healingOne animal study found that manuka honey compounds may combat inflammation associated with psoriasis patches. It might also support the skin's barrier, allowing it to remain moisturized. Other research found applying raw honey to psoriasis patches may improve skin inflammation symptoms.Effects on Other Skin ConditionsSeveral studies found that manuka honey may benefit other skin conditions besides psoriasis. These include:Acne: One study found that manuka honey's antibacterial and anti-inflammatory compounds are at least as effective as antibacterial soap for improving acne.Atopic dermatitis: Applying Manuka honey topically to the skin may help improve atopic dermatitis, an inflammatory skin condition with similar symptoms as psoriasis.Rosacea: People with rosacea, another inflammatory skin condition, saw improvements in skin redness or discoloration after eight weeks of applying a topical cream containing kanuka honey (a similar New Zealand native honey plant).Are There OTC Treatments?While a psoriasis treatment plan will vary based on the individual, there are over-the-counter (OTC) treatment options available, including:Coal tar: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved this topical ingredient for psoriasis treatment. It helps by slowing the growth of skin cells and restoring the skin's appearance. Coal tar may also reduce skin swelling, itching, and scaling, but it can still sometimes be irritating and drying to the skin.Corticosteroids: OTC corticosteroids help reduce inflammation and skin cell growth. However, long-term use may cause thinning skin, spider veins, and acne breakouts.Psoriasis lotions: Offering itch relief, these lotions can help prevent psoriasis flare-ups. They can contain exfoliating ingredients like salicylic acid or hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides.Salicylic acid: As a keratolytic (peeling agent), it is also FDA-approved for treating psoriasis. It works by softening and lifting skin cells, but skin irritation and hair loss are side effects.A healthcare provider (typically a dermatologist, a specialist in skin, hair, and nail conditions) can help decide which OTC psoriasis treatments are right for you. A tool known as the Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PSAI) helps them measure the severity of a particular psoriasis case.Other Home RemediesHome remedies for psoriasis can often serve as complementary tactics to standard medical treatment. Here are a few options:Aloe vera: As a naturally soothing plant, gel from aloe vera leaves can be applied to the skin to moisturize and soothe.Capsaicin: The spicy ingredient in chili peppers, capsaicin, when used in topical creams, may help reduce pain by blocking nerve signals and decreasing swelling from psoriasis.Diet: Experts recommend implementing plenty of fiber, healthy fats, and anti-inflammatory foods to help minimize psoriasis flare-ups.Exercise: Incorporating regular, vigorous physical activity into your daily routine may help improve psoriasis.Humidifiers: These devices add moisture to the air, which helps keep skin healthy, particularly during winter or dry climates.Stress management: Because stress is linked to psoriasis flare-ups, experts recommend mind-body therapies to promote relaxation, including meditation, mindfulness, hypnotherapy, biofeedback, and guided imagery. Sunlight: Ultraviolet (UV) light therapy in a controlled medical setting or outdoors can help improve psoriasis as long as safe sunlight exposure protection tactics are used.Warm baths: Soaking briefly in a warm (not hot) bath can hydrate and soothe skin, especially if moisturizing bath oils are used.While home remedies (and OTC options) may temporarily soothe psoriasis, they are typically best used along with standard medical treatment. A healthcare provider can assist with building these strategies into your current treatment plan.SummarySome studies suggest that manuka honey may help reduce skin inflammation. This could be beneficial for inflammatory skin conditions like psoriasis, which causes dry, itchy, scaly, inflamed patches on the body.While additional research is needed to confirm manuka honey's potential role in treating psoriasis, check with a healthcare provider before trying this or other home remedies. Read the original article on Verywell Health.
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