Praxis Medical Insights

Est. 2024 • Clinical Guidelines Distilled

Made possible by volunteer editors from the University of Calgary & University of Alberta

Last Updated: 8/26/2025

Ghee Consumption and Psoriasis: Evidence Assessment

Evidence-Based Alternative Medicine Options for Psoriasis

  • The American Academy of Dermatology recommends fish oil/omega-3 fatty acid supplementation as an adjunctive therapy to augment the effects of other psoriasis therapies, but not as monotherapy 1, 2
  • The American Academy of Dermatology suggests oral curcumin supplementation as a beneficial adjunctive therapy for patients with psoriasis of varying severity 3, 4
  • The American Academy of Dermatology recommends a gluten-free diet only for psoriasis patients diagnosed with celiac disease 3, 4
  • Stress reduction techniques such as meditation, mindfulness, and relaxation can have a positive impact on psoriasis severity in some patients, according to the American Academy of Dermatology 3, 4
  • The American Academy of Dermatology considers hypnosis as a therapeutic adjunct for highly hypnotizable patients with mild to moderate psoriasis 4

Important Considerations and Cautions

  • The American Academy of Dermatology advises patients to select fish oil supplements free of contaminants like mercury, dioxins, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) 2, 5
  • The American Academy of Dermatology does not recommend oral vitamin D supplementation for psoriasis treatment at dosages that avoid hypercalcemia and calciuria 3, 4
  • The American Academy of Dermatology states that oral zinc supplementation does not improve Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) scores 3, 4

Lifestyle Modifications

  • The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that patients with psoriasis limit alcohol intake, as it increases the risk for severe disease and is associated with other psoriasis comorbidities 6
  • The American Academy of Dermatology advises smoking cessation, as smoking increases the risk for severe psoriasis and cardiovascular comorbidities 6

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

  • The American Academy of Dermatology warns against relying solely on dietary or lifestyle interventions without conventional medical therapy, and against using unproven dietary supplements like ghee that lack scientific evidence 1, 2, 3
  • The American Academy of Dermatology cautions against implementing restrictive diets without nutritional guidance, which may lead to nutritional deficiencies 3, 4
  • The American Academy of Dermatology emphasizes the importance of addressing comorbid conditions that may worsen psoriasis, such as obesity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption 6