Some Useful Information About Natural Eczema Treatments

By Theresa Hawkins


Eczema is a disease of the skin characterized by patches of dry, itchy skin, often on the arms, face and neck. Much more severe than just dry skin, it does not respond to the treatments usually used to soften and heal dry skin. There are hundreds of items on the market, both prescription and over the counter that may to be varying degrees help ease the symptoms but as with any chemical, regular used can lead to bad side effects. Thankfully there are natural eczema treatments to ease the discomfort and embarrassment of the rash.

Surprisingly, the one treatment that has shown great promise is not a topical ointment but rather something eaten. There is some evidence that probiotics, when added to the regular diet of young children and infants, can reduce current rashes and prevent the onset of new ones. Probiotics have the added advantage of providing those that consume them with a host of other health benefits.

Most commonly, treatments for eczema are topical in nature, intended to be used right on the patches of dry skin themselves. Most have a hydrocortisone base and are filled with chemicals. Luckily, there are some made from the extracts of plants that contain no unnatural ingredients. As with all treatments, some are more successful for some than others.

One such treatment is made from chamomile. Although the response was not rapid, with most users having to apply it for two weeks before seeing significant results, over time it did appear to reduce the severity and number of rashes. When compared with a hydrocortisone cream the chamomile extract proved to be more effective over time for some users.

A cream made of witch hazel did not seem to be as effective, but still did offer its users some relief. As is often the case with eczema, some users reported drastic improvements while other saw almost none. More testing is needed to determine why these differences exist.

Licorice root is a third option for those who are looking to treat their rashes without using chemicals. It had very promising results in studies with users reporting significant reduction of the redness, swelling and itch of their eczema patches.

It is always important to talk to a doctor before trying any natural eczema treatments. Keep in mind that there are many unscrupulous people out there who would like to make money selling products that will not help the rash at all. Read the labels and know exactly what it is that you are putting on or in your body before you begin this or any treatment program.




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