Review of Curcumin, Indigo Naturalis, and Aloe Vera in Psoriasis Treatment

Abstract

Background Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin condition characterized by hyperproliferating keratinocytes, aberrant epidermal differentiation, and infiltrating inflammatory cells. Traditional herbal medicine has been used extensively to treat psoriasis with promising clinical results. Due to the vast number of herbal preparations used all over the world, we have focused on curcumin, indigo naturalis (IN), and aloe vera (AV) because they are the most commonly reported herbal therapeutics. Objective This review illustrates the beneficial effects of multiple herbal medications as a therapeutic alternative in the treatment of psoriasis. Methods A thorough literature search of the PubMed database was conducted to identify psoriasis studies utilizing these three herbs as therapeutics. Results Curcumin has been demonstrated to be a TNFα blocker. IN has been effective in treating plaque and nail psoriasis. AV-treated psoriasis also has shown clinical improvement. Conclusion Further studies are needed to back up these claims before these formulations can be accepted into the current treatment regimens.

Commentary on “Review of Curcumin, Indigo Naturalis, and Aloe Vera in Psoriasis Treatment”

“…In this context, it is useful to have the paper by Chaudhari et al on "Review of Curcumin, Indigo Naturalis, and Aloe Vera in Psoriasis Treatment" added to our literature. 5 Public perception often labels complementary therapies as healthier and safer alternatives to traditional medications. However, even natural ingredients come with their own set of risks and benefits.…”

“…The paper by Chaudhari et al examines the limited number of clinical trials specifically involving the use of curcumin, indigo naturalis, and aloe vera for the treatment of psoriasis. 5 Thirteen studies were found in total. The information presented in this paper is important because it demonstrates the conflicting results regarding efficacy of natural ingredients in the treatment of psoriasis.…”