
Eczema or atopic dermatitis is a group of skin conditions that include a rash. The condition is more prominent in children under the age of 6. The rash can last several years and even a lifetime. Eczema is very common and is often found on the hands, legs, neck and face. In addition, children can have the rash in the inner creases of the elbows and knees. Traditional treatments involve oral medication and topical cream applications.
However, there are numerous eczema natural remedies:
1. Reduce stress
Occasionally increased levels of stress can cause eczema, especially in children. In fact, oftentimes when there are no leading causes of the condition it is generally linked to extreme stress levels. The condition is not necessarily psychosomatic. The rash actually gets worse when the body has endured too much stress and pressure. On the other hand, reducing stress levels is found to help some eczema cases.
2. Eczema diets
Sometimes the underlying problem with eczema is a person’s diet. In fact, there appears to be several common things that help the condition. An eczema diet focuses on focuses on gut-healing foods that help with impaired digestive systems like fermented foods such as kombucha, sauerkraut, kimchi, yogurt, kefirs and tempeh. Anti-inflammatory foods are also helpful such as chia seeds, spinach and Brussel sprouts. Foods high in quercetin are also found to be helpful like apples, leafy vegetables, peppers, blueberries and nectarines. Eat organic as much as possible and avoid processed foods, eggs, dairy, tree nuts, peanuts, shellfish and gluten.
3. Coconut oil
Organic cold pressed coconut oil is excellent for the skin and has many healing qualities. The saturated fatty acid lauric acid is said to help fight bacteria and microorganisms that can cause eczema and other skin conditions. Apply the coconut oil directly onto the skin to soothe and protect from chemical or environmental damage.
4. Vitamin C
One of the best ways to protect and nourish the skin with vitamin C. The vitamin can also help combat eczema outbreaks. It is an anti-inflammatory that protects the cells from stress. You can add vitamin C to your diet with natural supplements or by eating more fruits and vegetables. Natural high sources include acerola cherries, rose hips, Kakadu plums and chili peppers. Other high sources are guavas, sweet yellow peppers, black currants, thyme, parsley, broccoli, Brussel sprouts, mustard spinach, lemons, persimmons, papayas, strawberries, lychees and oranges.
5. Aloe Vera and vitamin E
Aloe Vera is one of the leading ingredients used in skin care products. It is an excellent moisturizer and soothes the skin. Vitamin E is used for its anti-inflammatory properties. To use, mix equal amounts of aloe and vitamin E then gently apply to the skin. Other topical that may help include oatmeal and apple cider vinegar.
6. Salt baths
Unfortunately for some people with eczema, soaking in water makes the condition worse. However, for other a salt bath can greatly improve conditions. In fact, many studies have shown that a salt bath can smooth the skin, relieve inflammation and reduce redness. a good recipe for the bath is:
- 1 cup Epsom salts
- 1/2 cup Himalayan or sea salt
- 10 drops of essential oil of choice; like chamomile, lavender or mint
- Combine ingredients and place is a sealed jar. Add a little to a warm bath when desired.
Eczema can be a difficult condition to deal with. However, a few preventative measures and natural treatments can make a huge difference.