What Are Common Home Remedies for Psoriatic Arthritis?

Along with treatment options provided by doctors, many people living with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) turn to home remedies to relieve pain, swelling, and stiffness. While there is no research to prove these remedies slow or stop the damage caused by PsA, home remedies can ease some common symptoms.¹

Heat and cold

Many people with PsA find that hot and cold packs can provide relief to their aching joints. Hot and cold packs can be rotated, using heat for a few minutes before switching to cold, and then repeating.¹

Arthritis creams

There are several over-the-counter (OTC) arthritis creams that provide medicine through the skin. These creams may include:^1,2,3

• Capsaicin, which comes from the chili pepper plant. This is the substance that gives the peppers their spiciness. In creams and ointments, capsaicin blocks nerve endings that transmit pain. Products containing capsaicin include Capzasin, Dolorac, and Zostrix.
• Salicylates, which are the pain ingredient found in aspirin. Products containing salicylates include Bengay, Myoflex, Sportscreme, and Aspercreme.
• Counterirritants, which are are substances that produce a sensation of hot or cold. This sensation may temporarily block the body’s ability to feel localized pain. Ingredients in these creams may include menthol, eucalyptus, camphor, or wintergreen oil. Products containing counterirritants include Biofreeze and Icy Hot.

While these OTC products have been proven safe, their effectiveness in PsA has not been proven.^1,2

Spa therapy

For centuries, people have touted the health benefits of sea salt and mineral-rich waters found in natural springs around the world. Although not scientifically proven, many people living with psoriasis and PsA have found benefit from spa therapy. Spa therapy can include:¹

• Brine baths with sea salts
• Bathing in mineral springs
• Light treatments
• Drinking the mineral-rich water

Sea salts or Epsom salt can also be used in warm baths at home.¹

Supplements

Researchers are studying how Tumeric and vitamin D supplements may help people with PsA.

Tumeric is being studied for its anti-inflammatory properties. One study found Tumeric has the ability to alter tumor necrosis factor (TNF) cytokine expression, which may mean it is helpful in PsA.¹

Some research has shown that people with PsA have low levels of vitamin D. However, but there is not enough research to determine if taking vitamin D supplements will improve symptoms of the condition.⁴