There are a variety of treatments for skin conditions like eczema, but unlike with steroids or other medications, treating the condition with natural remedies has no side effects. Eczema leads to the skin becoming excessively dry, itchy, flaky, and oozing clear liquid in severe cases. Luckily, it can easily be treated at home using ingredients commonly found in kitchens. Combining these home remedies for eczema with lifestyle and dietary changes can help the skin heal faster and you may not need to opt for any other medication at all.
If the condition does not improve after a week of using home remedies, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist.
Natural remedies to treat eczema
Aloe vera
You can prepare a gel from the leaves of aloe vera at home or buy a gel from the market. Aloe vera has proven to have positive effects on the skin. It is anti-inflammatory and can improve the body’s immune system, which helps it fight allergies more effectively.
Calendula
Calendula lotion is made from the calendula flower. It is a natural remedy that is gentle on the skin and helps to reduce symptoms of itchiness. You can mix calendula lotion with aloe vera and apply to the affected area. If you are buying commercially, look for natural calendula lotion without other artificial ingredients.
Oatmeal bath
To prepare an oatmeal bath to treat eczema, you first need to powder oats. Then, mix this powder into a bath containing lukewarm water and let the oats soak for at least ten minutes. Bathing in the water is very helpful to moisturize the skin and reducing itching. An oatmeal bath also helps to reduce inflammation.
Natural oils
Several natural oils can be used to moisturize the skin instead of store-bought lotions. These oils, when applied to the eczema-affected area, provide relief from itching. They also repair the skin and can reduce inflammation. Some of the oils that can be used as an alternative to moisturizers are:
- Deep-pressed virgin coconut oil
- Sweet almond oil
- Evening primrose oil
- Sunflower oil
Essential oils
Apart from the oils mentioned above, essential oils can also be applied to eczema-affected skin to help reduce itching. Tea tree oil, lavender oil, and lemon oil are widely used to treat eczema symptoms.
Honey
Honey is anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial. It heals wounds quickly and improves natural immunity. While consumption of honey is good for those with eczema, it can be directly applied on the affected skin to heal wounds caused by scratching.
Apart from these ointments and masks, you can try the following remedies for eczema:
- Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese treatment that uses needles. These needles are inserted into specific parts of the body to treat various health conditions. There are many herbs in Chinese medicine that are used to treat eczema. Although more research is required to reach definitive conclusions, a combination of acupuncture treatment and Chinese herbs is believed to be helpful in providing relief.
- Green tea can be consumed regularly as it is anti-inflammatory. Packed with antioxidants, it is also good for the skin. Polyphenols are a nutrient present in green tea that reduces inflammation and itching.
Combining the above home remedies with dietary changes like avoiding the consumption of excessive dairy products, meat, spicy food, and refined flour can help one recover at a speedy rate.
