Psoriasis, or more specifically plaque psoriasis, is an inflammatory skin condition that causes the skin to become thick, red, and scaly. These patches, also called plaques, can be itchy and painful.
There is some anecdotal evidence that tea tree oil may be helpful in managing symptoms of psoriasis, especially in the scalp.
Tea tree oil is a yellow-colored essential oil that comes from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia, also known as the tea tree plant. The plant grows in Australia, where the oil has been used for nearly 100 years to treat minor wounds and skin issues.
Tea tree oil is readily available as an essential oil and is found in a wide range of skin care and other products.
How to use tea tree oil for psoriasis
Mixing the oil with water, applying it to the skin with a cotton ball, leaving it overnight, and washing it off in the morning
Diluting tea tree oil with olive oil or another carrier oil, applying it to affected areas, allowing it to dry, and then it washing off
Adding a few drops of tea tree oil to a bathtub and bathing in lukewarm water
Adding one part of tea tree oil with 10 parts of shampoo
