Eczema affects both children and adults. It is a term commonly used to describe a group of skin conditions. These include atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, and seborrheic dermatitis among many others. However, most of these conditions exhibit similar visible indicators of a developing condition. These include developing a rash or light yellowish-brown crusts and pus-filled blisters on the skin. Inflammation is one of the most persistent discomforts of Eczema and can aggravate the skin condition if left unchecked.
Statistics indicate that over 31 million citizens suffer from some form of eczema. Despite that, it is not an extremely severe health complication and is quite manageable with simple natural treatments. Herein we discuss three common ways to manage flare-ups and counter symptoms with minimum side effects from the comfort of your home.
Baths for eczema relief
A simple hot water bath infused with home ingredients like baking soda, bleach, colloidal oatmeal, bath oils, Epsom salts, and vinegar proves to be an excellent topical remedy. Baking soda has soothing qualities and is rich in antibacterial properties effective for eczema relief. Bleach is another potent option that helps counter bacteria forming on the skin. Colloidal oatmeal, on the other hand, helps provide relief from the itching sensation and restores the pH balance of the skin. Gentle bath oils provide respite from the itching and go one step further to nourish and moisturize the skin. Using a salt bath is another great alternative for mild to moderate symptoms of the skin condition. You can use generic table salt, sea salt, or even Epsom salt for preparing the bath. Apple cider vinegar is another versatile ingredient rich in healing properties that helps reduce the bacteria forming on the skin.
Topical home remedies
Irritation of the skin is also one of the primary symptoms of eczema which is where topical remedies are effective. You can apply wet wraps on the patches of skin where the symptoms are prevalent to help relieve the pain. Aloe vera is also an excellent topical remedy to soothe the inflammation and rash. It also naturally helps moisturize dry and cracked skin which is a common symptom of eczema. You can also apply another natural moisturizer like coconut oil to counter the symptoms of a bacterial irritation. Remember to use virgin or cold press coconut oil as other forms available may be laced with chemicals and additives. Natural honey is also a good antibacterial and anti-inflammatory that can help reduce the risk of developing an infection while suffering from eczema.
Eczema friendly diet
There are certain foods that you can eat to help manage mild to moderate symptoms of Eczema. Turmeric, for example, is rich in a natural compound called curcumin that has powerful antioxidant properties. The compound helps protect the skin by reducing the risk of free radicals forming in the skin. It also boosts the skin’s healing abilities. Turmeric is an extremely versatile ingredient that can be incorporated in several food and beverage recipes making it an excellent choice for eczema diet. Omega 3 fatty acid is also effective against eczema symptoms. The compound helps block the production of arachidonic acid that causes inflammation.
