Psoriasis affects millions of people worldwide, and for many, it is not just a “skin issue.” It can influence sleep, confidence, social life, and overall well-being. Standard medical treatments can be highly effective, but not everyone responds the same way, and many people also look for additional supportive approaches that fit their lifestyle and comfort level.
That’s where “alternative” or complementary treatments come in. Some are backed by more evidence than others, and some are better viewed as lifestyle support rather than direct symptom control. The key is to stay curious, but also realistic, and to avoid anything that could worsen symptoms or interfere with medical therapy.
Below are several alternative approaches that people commonly explore, along with what they may offer and what to keep in mind.
Medical cannabis (CBD and cannabinoids)
Medical cannabis is often discussed in psoriasis care because cannabinoids may influence inflammatory pathways and skin comfort. The most commonly mentioned compound is CBD (cannabidiol), which is frequently used in topical products and wellness formulations.
Some research suggests cannabinoids may help:
support calmer-looking skin by reducing inflammatory signals
ease discomfort in irritated areas
reduce the feeling of itchiness in some individuals
People also explore cannabis-based products for pain relief, especially when psoriasis is accompanied by joint discomfort or skin cracking.
That said, results vary widely. Not every CBD topical works the same, and product quality, concentration, and formulation make a major difference. If someone decides to try a cannabis-based topical, it is best to start slowly, patch-test first, and choose products that are fragrance-free and designed for sensitive skin.
Meat-only diet (carnivore diet)
The carnivore diet has gained popularity online as a “reset” strategy for inflammatory conditions. In its strict form, it includes only animal-sourced foods such as meat, seafood, eggs, and sometimes dairy, while excluding plant foods like fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, seeds, and nuts.
Supporters claim it may help psoriasis by eliminating potential triggers and simplifying nutrition. Some individuals report improvements, especially if their previous diet was high in ultra-processed foods, sugar, and alcohol. A simpler diet may also make it easier to identify what foods worsen symptoms.
However, it is important to approach extreme elimination diets carefully. Potential concerns include:
lack of fibre, which can affect gut health
nutrient gaps depending on food choices
long-term sustainability issues
increased cardiovascular risk factors in some people, depending on fat intake and overall health profile
A practical alternative is a structured elimination diet supervised by a professional, or simply improving overall nutrition quality first before going to extremes.
Fish foot therapy (Ichthyotherapy)
Fish spa therapy, also called ichthyotherapy, involves immersing the feet or body in water with Garra rufa fish, which feed on dead skin. It became well known through the Kangal Fish Spring in Turkey and is often promoted as a natural exfoliation method.
Some people find this experience relaxing and enjoy the sensation of smoother skin afterward. However, for psoriasis patients, there are important safety considerations. Psoriasis plaques can crack and bleed, and any broken skin increases infection risk. Shared water environments can also raise concerns about hygiene standards.
For that reason, fish therapy may be better viewed as a wellness experience rather than a reliable psoriasis management strategy, and it should be avoided if there is any open skin, cracking, or active inflammation.
Water fasting
Fasting is frequently discussed in relation to inflammation and immune function. Some preliminary evidence suggests fasting may reduce systemic inflammatory markers in certain contexts, and people sometimes report changes in energy, digestion, and skin comfort when fasting protocols are used responsibly.
However, fasting is not a universal solution. It can be physically demanding and may not be appropriate for:
people with diabetes or blood sugar instability
anyone with a history of eating disorders
pregnant or breastfeeding individuals
people taking medications that require food intake
If fasting is considered, a safer approach is a gentle structure such as time-restricted eating or medically supervised fasting, rather than aggressive multi-day water-only protocols.
Coal tar (a classic dermatology option)
Coal tar is not “alternative” in the modern wellness sense, but it’s often included in this category because it has been around for so long. Dermatologists have used coal tar preparations for over a century, and they remain a recognized option for some people with psoriasis, especially for scalp involvement.
Coal tar may help with:
scaling and plaque thickness
itchiness and irritation
long-term maintenance in selected cases
Coal tar products can be very effective, but they also have downsides such as strong odor, staining, and potential irritation in sensitive users. People who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or highly sensitive to UV exposure should speak with a healthcare professional before using it.
Forest therapy (Shinrin-yoku)
Forest therapy, inspired by the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku (forest bathing), is a guided or intentional form of spending time in nature. It’s not a “psoriasis treatment” in the direct medical sense, but it can be a surprisingly powerful support tool.
Stress is one of the most common psoriasis triggers. Prolonged stress can affect the nervous system, sleep, inflammation levels, and flare patterns. Nature exposure is associated in some studies with:
lower stress markers
improved mood and nervous system recovery
better sleep quality
a stronger feeling of mental reset
Some research has also explored how phytoncides, natural compounds released by trees, may influence immune activity. Even if the immune effects are not the main reason to do it, the stress reduction alone is valuable for many people living with chronic inflammatory conditions.
The best part is that forest therapy does not require perfection or a strict routine. Even short walks, once or twice per week, can be meaningful.
A smart way to approach alternative options
If you are exploring alternative treatments for psoriasis, the goal should be to build a routine that is safe, sustainable, and easy to evaluate. A simple approach is:
try one change at a time
keep the routine consistent for a few weeks
watch for benefits and side effects
avoid stacking five new things at once
keep medical care involved when symptoms are severe
If a method is expensive, extreme, or risky, it deserves extra caution. Psoriasis management works best when it supports the entire person, not just the skin surface.
Final takeaway
Alternative approaches can be helpful for some people, especially when they reduce stress, improve sleep, support nutrition, and strengthen daily skin comfort. But they should be viewed as part of a broader strategy, not as guaranteed solutions.
With psoriasis, consistency often beats intensity. Small habits done regularly can sometimes deliver more stability than dramatic “quick fixes.”
