Eczema also known as dermatitis is a type of skin disorder, in which the skin becomes very dry, hard and itchy. Excessive irritation persuades the patient to scratch the skin which in turn may lead to bleeding and secondary infections.
Although eczema cannot be cured, its symptoms like irritation, dryness and inflammation can be managed with simple herbs found in nature. Some of these herbs are considered to be as effective as topical hydrocortisone creams, only with fewer side effects.
Best Herbs For Eczema
Soapwort
Soapwort is a plant in the carnation family that is used as an herb to treat various skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, acne and boils. This plant is so named because the root can be used as soap. It produces lather on coming in contact with water. Anti-inflammatory properties possessed by this medicinal plant help to soothe the skin and provide relief from resulting itchiness, redness and inflammation.
It leaves the skin feeling soft, supple and smooth when used in bath water. For that, boil the root in water and then extract the juice to use it as soap. Other than that, you can simply crush the root and then enclose a few tablespoons of it in a muslin cloth to use it over your skin.
Chamomile
Well known for its medicinal properties, chamomile is one of the oldest English herbs that is native to Europe. This beautiful flower-bearing plant offers eczema treatment in a number of ways. Its anti-inflammatory properties help relieve the skin from itchiness and burning sensation while vulnerary properties promotes faster healing of rashes and sores. Apart from that, chamomile also helps to improve the immune system by boosting the number of immune cells.
These immune cells in turn help eliminate infectious microorganisms from the body to banish the problem of eczema. It has been clinically proven that chamomile cream or essential oil when applied topically has the same effectiveness as hydrocortisone cream. To prepare an infusion of chamomile, steep 1 heaping teaspoon of chamomile flower in one cup of boiling water. Steep until the infusion turns cold and then apply over the affected areas as a cool compress to get relief from inflammation and itching.
`Tamanu Oil
Native to South Eastern Asia, this medicinal plant offers very good remedy for the treatment of eczema. It is believed that tamanu oil reaches its full potential of healing when applied over eczema affected areas. Being a natural emollient, tamanu oil promotes healing of eczema by turning the skin soft and supple.
It also possesses anti-inflammatory properties, due to which it prevents and stops irritation and itching of skin. Other than that, tamanu oil is also a vulnerary agent which heals wounds, rashes and sores. Tamanu oil when applied regularly over the affected areas can help to treat the problem.
Also Read
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Natural Cure For Eczema In Children
Evening Primrose Oil
Evening primrose oil is another herbal remedy for eczema and is considered as one of the best options. The compound which gives primrose oil its characteristic aroma is the main ingredient which serves as a cure for many ailments, including eczema. The seed oil of evening primrose contains gamma-linoleic acid, which is a type of omega-6 fatty acid. The omega-6 fatty acids are utilized by the body to convert them into prostaglandin, a type of anti-inflammatory compound.
This compound banishes the inflammation and provides relief from excessive itching, inflammation and redness. Since people suffering from eczema are often found having gamma-linoleic acid deficiency, evening primrose oil can help restore the required amount. This oil can be taken in the supplement form or can also be used as a salad dressing.
Birch
Birch or Betula alba is a herbaceous plant, which has been found to be effective for a number of health disorders like eczema. Salicylate found in birch extracts has anti-inflammatory properties which aid in relieving pain, irritation and inflammation related to eczema.
Apart from that, its antibacterial properties help provide additional protection from secondary infections. Although very effective, you should avoid this herb for pregnant and nursing women and for people who are on blood-thinning medications. Birch can be used by preparing an infusion with its leaves or bark.
Caution: Please use Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.
