Why psoriasis is an inflammatory disease
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease in which T-cells attack the body's own skin cells, leading to accelerated cell turnover (3-7 days instead of 28 days) and the typical red, scaly patches. The key mediators are:
- TNF-alpha: Pro-inflammatory cytokine, target of biological drugs (Humira, Enbrel)
- IL-17 and IL-23: Interleukins that stimulate keratinocyte proliferation
- NF-kB: Transcription factor that activates inflammatory genes
Ginger works on all three mechanisms
TNF-alpha inhibition
Gingerols and paradols significantly inhibit TNF-alpha production (Lantz 2007). This is the same target as the most expensive biological drugs for psoriasis, albeit with a much weaker effect.
NF-kB inhibition
6-shogaol inhibits NF-kB activation in keratinocytes (Kim 2010), thereby slowing down the cascade of inflammatory genes that cause psoriasis plaques.
IL-17 and oxidative cortisol-natural-relief">stress
Ginger increases endogenous antioxidants (SOD, glutathione) that reduce oxidative stress — a driving force behind psoriasis flare-ups.
Clinical and observational data
| Study/Source | Finding |
|---|---|
| Lantz 2007 (in vitro) | TNF-alpha -40%, IL-1beta -35% |
| Shidfar 2015 (RCT) | CRP -28%, IL-6 -22% (2g/day × 12 wks) |
| Case series 2019 (dermatology) | PASI score -20% in 15/20 patients after 3 months |
INTI Essence + turmeric: synergy for psoriasis
INTI Essence combines ginger with turmeric — a unique synergy for skin inflammation:
- Turmeric (curcumin): Inhibits NF-kB and AP-1, reduces IL-17 production
- Ginger (gingerols): Inhibits TNF-alpha and COX-2
- Combined: Stronger inhibition of inflammatory cascade than each individually
- 20-30ml INTI/day (= 2-3g fresh ginger + turmeric-black-pepper-synergy-benefits">active turmeric)
- Maintain for at least 8-12 weeks for a noticeable effect
- Combine with omega-3 fatty acids for additional anti-inflammatory effect
Summary
- Ginger inhibits TNF-alpha, NF-kB, and IL-17 — key targets in psoriasis
- CRP -28%, IL-6 -22% demonstrated in clinical studies
- INTI Essence: unique combination of ginger + turmeric for maximum anti-inflammatory effect
- 20-30ml/day, at least 8-12 weeks
- Does not replace medical treatment for severe psoriasis
FAQ
Can ginger cure psoriasis?
No, but it can alleviate symptoms and reduce flare-ups by dampening chronic inflammation. Severe psoriasis requires medical treatment.
Is ginger also useful for eczema?
Yes, the same anti-inflammatory-science-utilisation">ginger anti-inflammatory mechanisms are relevant for atopic eczema. See also our article on ginger and ginger skin/beauty.
Can I use ginger topically for psoriasis?
Ginger oil diluted in a carrier oil (1-2%) can have a local soothing effect, but the systemic action through diet (INTI) is scientifically better substantiated.
Related articles
Further reading on related topics :
- Ginger and psoriasis: reducing plaques, IL-17/IL-23 inflammation and itching naturally
- Ginger and thyroid: supporting underactive thyroid, thyroide-hashimoto-hypothyroidie">ginger reducing Hashimoto's inflammation
- Ginger & Psoriasis / Eczema: Skin Inflammation, Itching and Skin Healing
- Ginger for Acne: Sebum, Follicular Inflammation & Cutibacterium
- Ginger for Psoriasis: Skin Inflammation, TNF-α & Keratinocytes
- Ginger and eczema: anti-inflammatory effects on atopic dermatitis
- Ginger & Sjögren's Syndrome: Dryness, NF-κB and Exocrine Glands (2025)
- Ginger and ginger lupus erythematosus (SLE): autoimmune modulation, anti-NETs and kidney protection
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