Q. I have been afflicted with hand psoriasis for several years. My dermatologist has prescribed a $1000 UV light that is less than effective. She has also given me a prescription steroid ointment that I apply and then wear vinyl exam gloves overnight.
A few weeks ago, I had an intense craving for pico de gallo (not a favorite munchie). After eating it for four days, I read your article about psoriasis and cilantro. Looking at my hands, I could see that the psoriasis had significantly improved. I now eat pico de gallo with extra cilantro every other day.
A friend suggested infusing the cilantro in EVOO (extra-virgin olive oil) and using it that way. After three topical applications, the infused oil works marvelously. I thought you’d like to know!
A. Pico de gallo is an uncooked salsa made with tomatoes, onions, chili peppers and (often) cilantro. We heard years ago from a psoriasis sufferer that eating salsa brought him relief. We did not think to ask him then if his salsa contained cilantro.
The idea of infusing extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO) with cilantro and using it as a salve is new to us. We’re glad to hear about another way to use cilantro against psoriasis. The oil could be especially helpful for those who can’t abide the taste of this green herb.
Some people have reported that taking turmeric or eating curry is also helpful against psoriasis. We recently heard that using glycerin topically on the patches of psoriasis can help control it quite effectively. This moisturizer is sometimes used in conjunction with UV light treatment to increase the light penetration.
