Cradle cap is appearance of greyish or yellowish scaly skin that appears on the scalp of the infants. One of the most common problems that one encounters in kids, it is the scaly skin layer that dries up and flakes off in usually, one to three month old infants.
It also sometimes appears as brownish cracking skin which comes off with brushing appearing underneath and around the ears, eyebrows along with the scalp. It is not a major medical condition, but sometimes can be severe.
Basic reason behind the occurrence of cradle cap is not due to hygiene or allergies but due to the effect of the hormones produced in the mother. There are many remedies that clear off the problem in two days to a week. However severe condition require consultation. The remedies also might work for some while for others it don’t. Hence, care should be taken to decide if a physician is to be consulted.
Herbal Remedies For Cradle Cap
Calendula
Calendula commonly known as marigold is used for cradle cap. It is very effective and also it is soft on the skin of an infant. Calendula leaves can be crushed smoothly and applied on the scalp. Wash off with a mild baby shampoo later. It is shown to reduce cradle cap.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is known to be a good antiseptic. It also has great healing properties. It reduces soreness, redness and inflammation sometimes associated with severe cradle cap.
The tea tree oil comes with great benefits and is known to moisturise the skin. Apply tea tree oil and massage on the scalp. The next day, brush the hair very gently to remove the scales.
Olive Oil
Olive oil has many benefits and is a popular remedy. Olive oil is good for an infants sensitive skin. It can be applied on the scalp affected by cradle cap.
Daily massage the scalp regularly twice or once in a day and shampoo it the next day. Repeat it regularly to avoid and prevent cradle cap.
Plantain
Plantain is considered safe and is known to soothe the dry skin of the infants. It reduces the heat. The soreness on the scalp of the infant is reduced as plantain has a soothing effect. Plantain can be used as an ingredient in creams and lotions or used as a wash directly.
Slippery Elm
Slippery elm is a mucilagenous substance that soothes and moisturises the dry skin of the infants effectively. The elm is soft on infants skin but has to be tested before use.
Slippery el ointment can be prepared and can be used in combination with comfrey. To prepare the ointment fry the slippery elm in olive oil. Then add cocoa butter and let it melt. Cool this ointment and let it refrigerate until it turns solid.
Comfrey
Comfrey is a beneficial herb that assists in soothing the dry skin. An ointment made out of comfrey root gives great result. The ointment made should be used within three days and applied once a day gently on the infants head. For the preparation of the ointment, take a fresh comfrey root and boil it in water.
Simmer for 20 minutes. Drain the root and let the solution warm and cool down. Refrigerate for sometime and let it come to room temperature before use. It is known to moisturise and soothe the dry skin.
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.
