Eczema – The Natural Path Out
Eczema is not a single condition but a group of skin conditions with various types such as atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, hand eczema, neurodermatitis, nummular eczema, and stasis dermatitis. Eczema is common in young children and is becoming more prevalent, a bit like everything else! Although some may outgrow it, it can come and go throughout life. Identifying triggers and learning how to treat eczema is vital. Many causes and risk factors contribute to eczema such as genetics, allergies, dry or sensitive skin, immune system dysfunction, environmental conditions, chronic stress, and temperature changes. You know this if your or your child have one form of eczema. So, let's get on and find the natural path out from this uncomfortable issue. First off, don't identify too much with what is going on, if it's yourself and help the persona experiencing it to focus on the good parts of skin, focus on the solutions, focus on where you'd like to be, how you want to feel and appear, then the things we suggest are part of the journey.
There’re various non-invasive eczema ways of treatment which can offer relief when flare-ups take place and several which may prevent its onset such as corticosteroids. Before we go into the stuff to use let's address step 1... Diet, more than 80% of individuals with eczema exhibit high levels of antibodies, indicating an allergic reaction. Many of these individuals also experience hay fever, allergic rhinitis, or asthma. The most common food allergens include milk, eggs, peanuts, fish, soy, wheat, gluten, citrus, and chocolate. By eliminating these foods one-by-one, an elimination diet can help identify which ones contribute to eczema symptoms. High sugar and refined carbohydrate diets increase insulin levels, leading to inflammation. Consuming whole grains, protein, and vegetables can help maintain lower insulin levels. Seafood, pumpkin seeds, dark chocolate, and vitamin C-rich fruits and vegetables, as well as vitamin E-rich foods like sunflower seeds, almonds, pine nuts, avocado, and dried apricots might be viable dietary options. We will list foods at the bottom, but remember in all of this, first eat a whole-food, organic diet and avoid dietary toxins. Now, the following home treatment options for eczema may be the most effective. If you're in a real rush, I've made a summary at the base of the article you can skip to, on what to start using.
Herbal Helpers: There are a variety of plants, such as small Knapweed, Walnut, Plantain, and Wild Pansy that can effectively reduce eczema symptoms in both kids and adults. Eczema is the primary reason for dermatologist consultations and is characterised by redness, scales, and itching. Allergic substances, including household products, dust, cat hair, and harmful substances used in clothing or leather treatments, are often the cause of skin inflammation. Stress levels, certain foods, and the environment are also frequently mentioned. Dr. Jean-Christophe Charrié, a general practitioner and clinical phytotherapy professor, advises using various plants to alleviate eczema symptoms. Dr. Charrié explains that skin issues, such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne, indicate that our emunctories, such as the pancreas, liver, spleen, and kidneys, are overloaded. When these organs are overwhelmed in certain people who are predisposed to eczema, their skin takes over. Draining the liver, kidneys, and intestines with plants like Fumitory or Artichoke during an eczema outbreak is the initial approach to relieve the skin. When using them for prevention, some plants support the ground, thereby gradually reducing eczema and flare-ups. For children, Dr. Charrié recommends a Walnut and Plantain-based treatment to combat allergies while improving healing and draining the intestine and supporting the pancreas. For adults, Birch and Wild Pansy serve as a good combination for the basic treatment to which Small Knapweed can be added for severe eczema. Birch is anti-inflammatory, anti-infective for the skin, and provides gentle, long-lasting drainage. Additionally, Wild Pansy has an antihistamine action and drains the skin powerfully.
If during a flare the rash starts to ooze, applying Witch-Hazel can help promote healing due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Scientific research has revealed that a cream containing Witch-Hazel and phosphatidylcholine ( A chemical contained in eggs, soybeans, mustard, sunflower and other foods) can be as effective as hydrocortisone (corticosteroid medicine) in a double-blind trial. During a flare-up, gently dab this cream directly onto the affected areas with a cotton pad. Make sure to apply an alcohol-free Witch-Hazel, as you do not want to experience more dryness. Liquorice Root Extract has shown potential in reducing itchiness during limited eczema trials. Adding a few drops to a homemade itch cream or Cold-Pressed Extra Virgin Coconut Oil can provide relief. The unbearable itching that often accompanies eczema can be remedied with a natural homemade cream incorporating Shea Butter, Raw Honey, Coconut oil, and certain Essential Oils. When using Aloe Vera, a person should apply the gel directly to the affected areas of skin and gently rub it in. First, you should clean your skin with Natural Soap (Available @AncientPurity) and clean water. Next, apply Aloe Vera to the affected area preventing your skin from drying out.
Let the Sun Shine! The sun is the greatest way to limit eczema, and Dr. Charrié advises exposing eczema patches to open air and sunshine. Seawater soothes eczema flare-ups and itching. You could also add Ancient Purity Celtic Sea Salt or Ancient Purity Bicarbonate of Soda to a lukewarm water bath. In addition to decent sun exposure, taking high quality Vitamin D (The Sunshine Vitamin) supplements (Available @AncientPurity) may aid prevent eczema in kids and adults especially if their sun exposure is poor. Adding 10 to 15 minutes a day of sun exposure, especially during a flare-up, can provide relief as well as potentially speed healing. Calming the Mind & Body. Psychodermatology, the psychological component of some skin conditions such as eczema, has been studied by Harvard Medical School. Various techniques, such as hypnosis, mindfulness meditation, and cognitive behaviour therapy, may not only offer relief during a flare-up but also expedite the healing process and prevent future occurrences. Manage Stress. A 2020 survey of over 1,000 individuals with eczema revealed that stress is the primary cause of flare-ups. Ancient Purity proposes the following measures to alleviate stress: saying no when overwhelmed, abstaining from alcohol, spending time in nature, maintaining a regular exercise routine, and communicating one's emotions with others. We also have some really helpful, natural options to aid you as you find more peace in the Stress Relief section.
Embrace those Omega-3 Fatty Acids. The Norwegian University of Science and Technology discovered that introducing fish to a child's diet by 9 months old and consuming it weekly can dramatically reduce the risk of developing eczema. Foods rich in Omega-3s are also recommended for prevention and can aid in boosting the immune system and speeding up the healing process during a flare-up. In addition, supplementing with Ancient Purity Krill Oil may be an easier option. Vitamin E - The real Sunshine Vitamin as it's not a hormone like Vitamin D3. Taking a Vitamin E-Full Spectrum supplement (available @AncientPurity) can reduce inflammation and promote healing. Topical application of Vitamin E can relieve itching and prevent scarring. Preliminary scientific research indicates that low levels of Vitamin D during pregnancy and childhood may increase the risk for eczema development. Keep Moisturising your Skin. Since dry skin can cause and worsen eczema symptoms, it is very important to moisturise the affected areas at least 2 times a day. As a natural moisturiser, Cold-Pressed Extra Virgin Coconut Oil (Available @AncientPurity) has antifungal and antibacterial qualities that soothe and potentially speed up the process of healing in eczema patients. Stay Cool!. Applying a wet and cool compress may decrease itchiness for some people with eczema. For young kids, dampening night clothes may provide relief from itching during the night. However, if the eczema has developed to oozing blisters, wet compresses may result in a higher risk of infection and should not be applied.
Dead Sea Salt Baths. The Dead Sea's therapeutic properties have been well-documented. Researchers have discovered that bathing in the salty waters can hydrate and strengthen the skin's barrier function, as well as alleviate inflammation, redness, and roughness. When experiencing eczema flares, warm bathwater is ideal, as extreme temperatures can aggravate the condition. It's important to be gentle when drying the skin. Make sure to use a soft towel and avoid rubbing the affected areas. Essential Lavender Oil. In addition to itching, eczema can lead to anxiety, depression, frustration, and poor sleep. Essential Lavender Oil is a proven eczema treatment that can alleviate these symptoms and improve dry skin. You can mix 10 drops of Lavender Essential Oil with a tablespoon of Coconut or Sweet Almond Oil and gently apply it to your skin. Probiotics. Probiotics have been found to prevent eczema in infants and reduce the severity of flares. Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers who consume probiotics on a regular basis can help prevent their children from developing eczema. To manage eczema outbreaks and prevent future ones, consider taking a high-quality Probiotic (Available@AncientPurity) supplement daily, if it's for your child we have the flavoured Vegan Probiotic Powder, it could be an easy way to utilise this.
Embracing Ancient Methods... TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine). The ancient wellness practice known as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) aims to bring balance to all aspects of human health. Practitioners believe in the existence of a vital life force called Qi, which when imbalanced can lead to illness or disease. A range of treatment modalities are included in TCM, customised to a person’s needs, such as acupuncture, acupressure, cupping, Gua Sha, mind-body practices, and traditional Chinese herbs. The herbal collection in TCM consists of over 10,000 herbs found in specific plants' leaves, stems, and roots, available in powders, liquids, or topicals. Ayurveda. Similarly, Ayurveda, a system of medicine originating in India over 5,000 years ago, uses a selected set of tools, including herbs, oils, dietary changes, massages, and mind-body practices like yoga and meditation to bring balance to the body. Ayurvedic medicine also uses the concept of "doshas," a person's life forces, to identify potential mind-body imbalances and how the body may react to different factors such as diet and skincare.
Yoga, Tai Chi & Qigong Ancient mind-body practices such as Yoga, Qigong, and Tai Chi combine breathing, body movement, and meditation to achieve focus, clarity, and relaxation. Persons with eczema have found that these exercises can help reduce stress, inflammation, and distract from itch. Tai Chi and Qigong are martial arts that utilise graceful movements and diaphragmatic breathing to circulate Qi energy for balance between the body and mind. Yoga can be traced back to Ayurveda and is based on Hindu philosophy that uses pranayama and asanas to achieve inner peace and focus. Acupressure, akin to acupuncture, involves physical pressure on certain points to unblock "life energy," which has shown in limited studies to relieve itch and lichenification. While accredited massage therapy can reduce flare-ups, patients should check with their therapist beforehand to ensure that oils and lotions used will not trigger or worsen the eczema. Bringing chemical-free personal products is advised if unsure. Vitamins & Supplements. We mentioned a few supplements above, but let's complete the options. People who are living with eczema or caring for loved ones with this skin issue sometimes turn to vitamins and nutritional supplements to try to aid reduce inflammation, enhance the immune system or get a night’s quality sleep. Mentioned below are several natural health supplements people use managing eczema, we are always aiming to get balance first and understand the why's on the way, so do research but these are going to help. Most of these supplements can be purchased at Ancient Purity. Vitamin D, Fish Oil, Zinc, Selenium, Prebiotics & Probiotics, Vitamin C, Melatonin, Turmeric and Evening Primrose Oil.
Natural Remedies for Baby Eczema. Sadly we get asked about this one a lot, so here is Ancient Purity’s run-down of evidence promoting the most favoured natural remedies for baby eczema: Cold-Pressed Coconut Oil. Many of our customers have praised Ancient Purity Extra Virgin Raw Coconut Oil for its effectiveness on dry skin and its anti-bacterial properties that reduce the risk of infected eczema. For an eczema remedy, coconut oil is definitely worth trying, especially if your baby's eczema is prone to infections. Sunflower Oil. Sunflower oil is another natural moisturiser that is rich in essential fatty acids that can benefit your baby's eczema by improving its barrier function and reducing inflammation. Massaging your baby's tummy with Coconut Oil or Sunflower Oil can even alleviate colic symptoms in addition to eczema. Keep in mind that using oil on your baby can make them slippery, so handle them with care. Creams containing Vitamin B12 have also shown promising results in controlling eczema symptoms. Calendula. Calendula cream, made from Marigold Flowers, can soothe eczema by reducing inflammation, eliminating bacteria, and promoting healing. Colloidal Oatmeal. For an easy and affordable solution, try adding Colloidal Oatmeal to your baby's bath or use Itchy Baby's bath powder made with colloidal oats and lavender oil. Make sure that you keep the bathing water out of your baby’s eyes. Aloe Vera. Using Aloe Vera for your baby’s skin is quite safe. Aloe Vera is particularly effective in reducing rashes. This is important as rashes can inflame your baby’s skin with red, itchy patches. Note: Remember, what works for one eczema baby may not work for another, and conventional medicine should not be disregarded entirely. Keep in touch with your healthcare practitioner and don't give up on finding a solution that works for your baby.
In summary:
- To Eat - Whole-food/Organic Diet and include: Watercress, Apples, Sweet Potato, Carrots, Turmeric, Fish Roe, Wild Caught Salmon, Dark Chocolate, Sunflower & Hemp Seeds, Almonds, Pine Nuts, Avocado.
- To Take - Krill Oil, Vitamin E, Vitamin D, Zinc, Selenium, Pre-biotics & Probiotics, Melatonin, Turmeric, Evening Primrose Oil, Liquorice Root Extract, Vitamin C.
- Topical - Witch Hazel, Coconut Oil, Shea Butter, Raw Honey, Lavender Essential Oil, Aloe Vera, Calendula Cream, Colloidal Oatmeal.
- Practices - Dead Sea / Celtic Sea Salts Bath, Bicarbonate of Soda, TCM, Yoga, Tai Chi & Qigong, Ayurvedic Medicine.
Notes - Focus on Well-being, Moisturising your Skin, Get Sunshine, Keep Hydrated.
