Turmeric for Scalp Psoriasis: New Research Highlights Potential Role

New Research Highlights Potential Role

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that affects 3-5 % of the world. For many patients, the scalp is the very first site of involvement. Current treatments include topical steroids, vitamin D analogues, calcineurin inhibitors and a variety of biologic agents.

Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.), a spice commonly used throughout many parts of the world. Turmeric has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and even anti-cancer properties.

T lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell that have a key role in psoriasis. Interestingly, Turmeric has been reported to exhibit inhibitory activity on potassium channels
A new study examined the effects of turmeric compared to placebo in 40 patients with mild-to-moderate scalp psoriasis. The study group received turmeric tonic twice daily for 9 weeks, whereas the other group received a placebo applied in the same manner. Patients were evaluated at baseline, as well as weeks 3, 6, and 9.

Compared to the placebo group, topical turmeric tonic significantly reduced the redness, scaling and induration of lesions (PASI score), and also improved the patients' quality of life.

This is interesting and adds to the body of research supporting a role for turmeric in psoriasis.
 

Reference

Bahraini P, et al. Turmeric tonic as a treatment in scalp psoriasis: A randomized placebo-control clinical trial. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2018.