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| - Last Updated on November 7, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A social media post claims that mustard oil and neem powder can cure psoriasis completely. Our fact check found out this claim is false.
The Claim
An Instagram post claims that applying a mixture of mustard oil and neem powder can completely cure psoriasis. It also suggests avoiding milk for best results.
Fact Check
Can topical application of mustard oil and neem powder really cure psoriasis?
No, they cannot. Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition where the immune system causes skin cells to multiply too quickly, leading to scaly and inflamed patches. Since psoriasis comes from the immune system, home remedies alone can’t cure it. There is no cure for psoriasis right now, and we can only manage the symptoms. Mustard oil and neem powder may help reduce inflammation and bacteria, giving temporary relief, but they don’t fix the root cause.
Current research is mostly in animal studies, but one found that mustard seed reduced inflammation markers in mice with psoriasis. An older study from 1994 shows that using neem leaf extract alongside coal tar treatment helped psoriasis patients improve faster. The trial found no side effects.
Doctors say that effective psoriasis treatment usually includes medications like topical corticosteroids, systemic drugs, and biologic treatments that target the immune system, unlike mustard oil and neem powder. Sometimes, doctors can also recommend phototherapy (light therapy) for large areas of skin.
We reached out to Dr Ekansh Shekhar, Dermatologist, Cosmetologist, Trichologist, and Aesthetic Medicine Consultant in Lucknow, for his perspective on mustard oil and neem powder for psoriasis cure. He says, “Psoriasis is a long-term skin condition where skin cells grow too quickly, causing red, scaly patches and inflammation. It happens because the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells. While mustard oil and neem powder have some properties that may help with skin health, like anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, there’s no strong evidence that they can cure psoriasis.”
Dr Shekhar adds, “The best treatments for psoriasis include topical steroids, vitamin D creams, phototherapy, and medications prescribed by a doctor. Using only home remedies like mustard oil and neem powder might delay proper treatment and could cause skin irritation. Also, there’s no proof that avoiding milk helps with psoriasis. It’s important to see a dermatologist for the right treatments.”
Dr Rashi Soni, Co-founder and Consulting Dermatologist, Aesthetician, and Hair Transplant Surgeon at Rashi Hospital in Mumbai, shared her expertise on mustard oil and neem powder for psoriasis. She said, “Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition with no known cure, and the focus of treatment is on managing symptoms and controlling flare-ups. Mustard oil and neem powder may have some soothing effects, but they cannot address the underlying causes of psoriasis, which are related to the immune system. There is no solid evidence that avoiding milk has a significant impact on psoriasis symptoms. For effective management, a healthcare professional, particularly a dermatologist, should be consulted for appropriate treatment.”
Should you cut down on dairy to treat psoriasis?
Not really. The belief that avoiding milk can cure or significantly improve psoriasis is not yet proven. While some people report symptom relief after dietary changes, this is usually specific to those with dairy sensitivities or allergies. There is no conclusive evidence, but for some people, reducing dairy intake helps them improve symptoms.
Psoriasis and diet have a complex relationship, and dietary changes should be approached individually and under medical supervision. For some people, dairy can be a trigger, so they may benefit from cutting down on dairy, but others need not do so. Simply avoiding milk without professional advice may result in inadequate nutritional intake without actual improvement in symptoms.
Are there risks with using home remedies and avoiding milk?
Yes, there are potential risks. Relying on home remedies like mustard oil and neem powder while avoiding proper medical treatments can lead to delayed or improper management of psoriasis. This approach could worsen symptoms and reduce quality of life.
Mustard oil is healthy for cooking, but, if used excessively, can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. Neem, while generally considered safe, can also cause sensitivity or adverse skin reactions. Avoiding milk may not provide significant benefits and could cause nutritional imbalances without a healthcare professional’s guidance.
A dermatologist should oversee proper psoriasis management and customise treatments to individual needs. Evidence-based treatments like phototherapy, biologics, and topical therapies effectively manage the disease.
THIP Media Take
The claim that mustard oil and neem powder can completely cure psoriasis is false. These home remedies may offer minor relief, but they do not address the root causes of this autoimmune condition. Understanding psoriasis is important for effective management. Proper treatment involves a comprehensive approach guided by medical professionals.
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