When you live with a long-term condition like psoriatic arthritis (PsA), it’s natural to wonder if vitamins and minerals might help ease symptoms alongside prescribed treatments. Many members of MyPsoriasisTeam are curious about this and have started conversations about what works for them. One member asked, “Which vitamins or supplements does everyone take for psoriatic arthritis besides the prescription medications?” “I’m looking for alternatives for the pain.”

Although natural remedies shouldn’t replace lifestyle changes or medications your doctor prescribes, some natural supplements for PsA may provide additional benefits. They’re often called complementary therapies because they add to and enhance your treatment plan. Complementary therapies for PsA include dietary supplements, acupuncture, massage, meditation, herbs, and anti-inflammatory diets.

Here, you’ll learn more about the safety and potential benefits of supplements for PsA. Before taking any supplements, it’s a good idea to get medical advice from your primary care provider or a board-certified rheumatologist.

The FDA Doesn’t Regulate Supplements Before Sale

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t check dietary supplements for safety or effectiveness before they’re sold. Instead, the companies that make them are responsible for safety and labeling, and the FDA usually steps in only after products are already on the market. For example, you don’t need to get a prescription to buy supplements.

The lack of FDA oversight and regulations for supplements means some may contain unsafe ingredients. The American Medical Association Journal of Ethics recommends purchasing supplements from a reputable company that participates in verification programs and third-party lab testing.

Additionally, although researchers have found some complementary therapies to be safe and effective in helping with symptoms of psoriasis, others aren’t. In certain cases, the only risk is spending money on something that doesn’t work. In other situations, the risks can include harmful side effects or interfering with your medications.

Talk to your healthcare provider before trying any complementary therapies, and be sure you understand the risks, benefits, and safe dosages.

What Supplements May Help With Psoriatic Arthritis?

We’ll explore four supplements commonly used to ease PsA symptoms, along with information about the role of complementary therapies that might work along with your other medical treatments.

Glucosamine and Chondroitin

Glucosamine and chondroitin are components of cartilage, the connective tissue that cushions bones and joints and prevents them from rubbing together. The body makes glucosamine and chondroitin, but they’re also available as dietary supplements. According to the Arthritis Foundation, these are two of the most commonly used arthritis supplements.

Studies have shown mixed results on whether these supplements help with PsA symptoms. Glucosamine and chondroitin are not shown to help with PsA, although they may help with osteoarthritis (wear-and-tear joint pain). Some MyPsoriasisTeam members have noticed a difference after taking glucosamine and chondroitin.

“My hands were so sore that I could not make a fist,” said one member. “A friend suggested glucosamine and chondroitin. Six weeks later, I can make a fist and wiggle my fingers. There’s still a little pain, but it’s tolerable.”

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is an organic sulfur compound often added to glucosamine and chondroitin. “I use MSM and glucosamine for psoriatic arthritis, and I feel pretty good,” reported one member.

You may also see labels advertising glucosamine sulfate, glucosamine hydrochloride, N-acetyl glucosamine, and chondroitin sulfate.

Research has found that glucosamine and chondroitin are generally safe, but potential side effects include headaches, heartburn, diarrhea, and drowsiness. Glucosamine supplements may contain shellfish, so read the label carefully if you don’t or can’t eat shellfish. Similarly, chondroitin is often sourced from animals such as sharks, pigs, or cows, so the same warning applies.

Vitamin D

People with PsA are at risk of low levels of vitamin D, an essential nutrient that can reduce inflammation and support healthy bones. Research has found that people with PsA tend to have lower vitamin D levels compared to those who don’t have the condition.

Vitamin D supplements don't seem to help people who already have normal levels, but they may be useful if your levels are low. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, your doctor can do a blood test to find out if you have a vitamin D deficiency.

Although more research is needed to determine whether vitamin D supplements can ease symptoms of PsA and other psoriatic diseases, some MyPsoriasisTeam members see benefits. “I have been taking vitamin D for a few years,” said one member living with PsA. “For me, it helps with joint pain and bone aches.”

Aside from supplements, you can get more vitamin D by eating foods like:

• Egg yolks
• Sockeye salmon
• Tuna canned in water
• Mushrooms

Some products come fortified with vitamin D, too, including orange juice, plant-based and dairy milks, cereals, and tofu. Sunlight can help your body make vitamin D, but spending too much time in the sun also raises the risk of skin cancer. For this reason, it’s usually better to get vitamin D in other ways.

Turmeric

Turmeric is a plant related to ginger. It’s native to Southeast Asia and has been used in cooking and traditional medicine for many years. Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, has anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce pain, stiffness, and inflammation.

One study found that turmeric extract and curcumin may relieve arthritis symptoms — particularly osteoarthritis. More research is needed to explore the benefits of turmeric for people with PsA, but some MyPsoriasisTeam members recommend it.

“I have been trying out a turmeric supplement, and it has helped a lot with my arthritis,” said one MyPsoriasisTeam member. “Turmeric really helps with my joint pain,” said another.

Turmeric and most curcumin products are generally safe for most people, but you shouldn’t take them if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, about to have surgery, or have gallbladder disease. Also, avoid turmeric if you’re using a blood thinner, as it can increase the medicine’s effects and lead to bleeding.

Fish Oil and Other Omega-3 Supplements

Omega-3 fatty acids, or omega-3s, can benefit your health in several ways. They can lower triglycerides (a type of fat in the blood) and may slightly lower blood pressure. Research on whether they prevent stroke or heart problems has had mixed results. Your dermatologist may recommend omega-3 supplements to help with PsA symptoms like joint pain.

Your body can make some fats, but not omega-3s. These are called essential fatty acids, and you have to get them from food, fish oil capsules, or supplements. Fish oil supplements are considered safe for most people, but mild side effects include nausea, upset stomach, bad breath, and burping. Fish oil supplements may also interfere with certain medications. Too much fish oil can increase your risk of bleeding. Some studies have looked at fish oil (omega‑3) for joint pain in PsA. More research is needed to know if it really helps.

You can also get omega-3s by eating fatty fish like salmon, tuna, mackerel, and sardines, which are staples of the Mediterranean diet.

“Salmon is rich in anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids — a big benefit for people with inflammatory conditions like psoriatic arthritis,” shared one MyPsoriasisTeam member who eats salmon as part of a healthy diet.

Plant-based omega-3 supplements and capsules are also available, often made from algae oil. Plant-based food sources of omega-3s include:

• Chia seeds
• Edamame
• Flaxseeds
• Hemp seeds
• Walnuts
• Seaweed

Discuss Supplements With Your Doctor

While researching supplements and vitamins for psoriasis, you may also see complementary therapies that people with psoriatic arthritis use, such as Epsom salts, capsaicin, or gluten-free diets. Remember, you and your doctor are a team. Don’t change medications, adjust dosages, or add complementary therapies without talking with them first.

If you have questions about supplements for PsA, consult your healthcare provider or a board-certified rheumatologist for guidance.

Join the Conversation

On MyPsoriasisTeam, people share their experiences with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, get advice, and find support from others who understand.

How have supplements played a role in your psoriasis journey? Let others know in the comments below.