Eczema Natural Treatments – Treating Dermatitis

Any skin inflammation may be considered dermatitis. Substances that irritate the skin, allergic reactions to drugs, detergents, and other chemicals are all problems. Dermatitis can affect almost any area of the body. Redness, scaling, and thickening of the skin may occur. Pinpointing the cause of the problem is the first step toward alleviating the symptoms.

Dermatitis is a broad term covering many different disorders that all result in a red, itchy rash. The term eczema is sometimes used for dermatitis. Some types of dermatitis affect only specific parts of the body, whereas others can occur anywhere. Some types of dermatitis have a known cause; others do not. However, dermatitis is always the skin’s way of reacting to severe dryness, scratching, a substance that is causing irritation, or an allergen.

Typically, that substance comes in direct contact with the skin, but sometimes the substance is swallowed. In all cases, continuous scratching and rubbing may eventually lead to thickening and hardening of the skin.Eczema is a type of dermatitis that is allergy related. It appears as dry, cracking, crusting and red patches on the skin. Often there are swelling, weeping blisters.

The skin can become inflamed and itchy. Many factors can contribute to eczema. Stress is a major factor. Exposure to cleaning compounds, perfumes, detergents, household chemicals, soaps, food allergies, as well as, nutrient deficiencies.

Atopic dermatitis is one of the most common skin diseases, affecting 15 million people in the United States. Almost 66% of people with the disorder develop it before age 1, and 90% by age 5. In half of these people, the disorder will be gone by the teenage years; in others, it is lifelong.

Doctors do not know what causes atopic dermatitis, but people with it usually have many allergic disorders, particularly asthma, hay fever, and food allergies. The relationship between the dermatitis and these disorders is not clear; atopic dermatitis is not an allergy to a particular substance. Atopic dermatitis is not contagious.

Many conditions can make atopic dermatitis worse, including emotional stress, changes in temperature or humidity, bacterial skin infections, and contact with irritating clothing. In some infants, food allergies may provoke atopic dermatitis.

Asthma at an early age is often seen. With the development of eczema and asthma, western medicine sees this as an allergic IgE response. This is a genetically determined disorder that occurs in association with asthma and hay fever. Symptoms usually include erythematous, scaling and lichenified areas, which when active show crusting but no vesicles. If a blood sample is taken, it will most likely show an increase in IgE levels and a high number of eosinophils.

Supplements, Topicals and Tips for Treating Eczema

• A study published in the British Medical Journal Lancet showed a significant improvement in eczema when patients took high doses of Evening Primrose Oil (EPO) in capsule form. There have been some reports that EPO can help in cases of atopic dermatitis. It takes a rather large number of these expensive capsules to produce results and it can take at least six months to see any results.
• Flaxseed oil taken internally or applied externally often eases symptoms of eczema.
• Aloe vera gel and Calendula lotion or cream can sooth irritated skin.
• Take 500 milligrams of Black Currant Oil twice a day. Give children under 12 half that dose. This takes six to eight weeks to produce the desired effect.
• Emu oil is reported to be helpful for dermatitis suffers of all kinds, as this oil has a protective and softening effect on the skin. The exact mechanism by which emu oil works is not known.
• Apple cider vinegar and many different types of vinegar (derived from dates, figs, etc.) have been used by many ancient cultures for medicinal purposes. Apple cider vinegar has been used throughout the years as a disinfectant or soothing agent. The Psoriasis Foundation hears from people who apply apple cider vinegar to their skin as a treatment for psoriasis. People add it to the bath, mix it with a moisturizer, soak fingernails and toenails in it, and apply it directly to the skin with cotton balls or pads.
• Capsaicin, a natural ingredient found in cayenne peppers, has been shown in some studies to work on redness, scaling and itching of the skin and is considered one of many effective herbal remedies for dermatitis. Researchers have shown that capsaicin interrupts the action of substance P, (a molecule which affects how the brain recognizes pain and itch sensations) at the nerve ending. In two separate studies with psoriasis patients, 0.025% capsaicin cream used topically was effective in decreasing scaling and redness. The main side effect was a short-lived burning sensation. Several studies indicate that topical capsaicin products can also help reduce joint pain associated with psoriatic arthritis. Capsaicin can cause a severe burning sensation if it comes in contact with the eyes, nasal passages or mucous membranes.

Herbs for Dermatitis

Burdock Root – Helps to purify blood and restore the liver to aid in a restful sleep. Helps to reduce build up of toxins in the skin resulting in boils and other skin disorders. Helps gallbladder functions and stimulates the immune system and is one of the more popular herbal remedies for dermatitis.

Chamomile – Chamomile’s medicinal properties range from skin inflammations to lightening hair to treating digestive problems and is one of the more effective herbal remedies for dermatitis. As a mild sedative, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial, it improves digestion by relaxing the muscles throughout the gastrointestinal system and it can induce an overall sense of calm and well-being.

Dandelion – is a leading remedy for detoxing the liver and is one of several very effective herbal remedies for dermatitis. It stimulates the flow of bile, a fluid that aids fat digestion, which is why it’s used for liver and gallbladder disorders. Dandelion has scientifically documented potent diuretic properties. It relieves constipation and eases bloating and swelling. Dandelion should be used for 4 to 6 weeks at a time. For it’s liver benefits dandelion is helpful for skin disorders.

Red Clover – is another one of the more popular herbal remedies for dermatitis and is an herb suggested for chronic conditions affecting the skin. It is a diuretic, but it’s unknown exactly how it works for skin conditions. Use nonfermented red clover which is safe. Red clover contains a substance called genistein, which has anticancer properties.

Thyme Leaf – The pungent oils found in Thyme are an effective anti microbial in the treatment of respiratory infections. When taking Thyme, people often note tasting it on their breath as the oils permeate through the respiratory system to reduce the proliferation of viruses during infections. It also warms the digestion and reduces metabolic congestion, aiding to clear the body of conditions for infection.

Aloe vera looks like a cactus with soft leaves and probably one of the most well-known, beloved and most often used herbal remedies for dermatitis and other skin conditions. The fluid contained in the leaves has been used for centuries to treat burns and minor wounds.

Today, aloe gel is used frequently as an ingredient in cosmetics, creams, ointments and suntan lotions. A study published in 1996 in Tropical Medicine and International Health found that aloe vera was very effective in the treatment of psoriasis. By the end of the 16-week study, a cream with aloe vera extract caused a significant clearing of psoriasis in 25 of 30 patients, compared to two out of 30 with the placebo.

However, a study published in May 2005 in the Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology found that the effect of commercial aloe vera gel on stable plaque psoriasis was modest and not much better than placebo.

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy can help by easing irritation, inflammation, and dryness. Helpful, are Essential oils such as Chamomile, Geranium, Tea Tree, Lemon, Myrrh and Ylang Ylang. Apply 8-10 drops of one oil or combine two to three oils in a base of 4 ounces of sunflower oil.

Hydrotherapy

The mysterious and amazing healing power of water has been utilized for centuries. Water cleanses, refreshes and restores all life. We are always drawn to water. Hydrotherapy is the use of water in any form, in the treatment of dis-ease. Hydrotherapy was used by the ancient Greek physicians. The use of baths for such purposes as well as for religious purification, personal cleanliness, and private or social relaxation dates from at least the time of ancient Greece.

Oatmeal Bath

Oats are warming thermal in nature, sweet and slightly bitter flavor, soothing, restores nervous and reproductive systems, strengthens spleen-pancreas, builds and regulates qi energy, removes cholesterol from the digestive tract and arteries, strengthens cardiac muscles. Can be used in cases of dysentery, diabetes, hepatitis, nervous and sexual debility, indigestion and swelling including abdominal bloating.

One of the richest silicon foods, oats help renew the bones and all connective tissues. oats also contain phosphorus, required for brain and nerve formulation during youth. For an additional soothing treat, add milled oatmeal to the bath, and even using oatmeal as a soap substitute.

For the bath, pour 2 cups of milled oatmeal into a tub of lukewarm water. Milled oatmeal is simply oatmeal that has been ground to fine powder that will remain suspended in water. Bath in the oatmeal for up to 20 minutes.

Homeopathy

This medical system uses infinitesimal doses of natural substances to stimulate a person’s immune system and body’s natural defenses. Homeopathic remedies are named for the plant or animal ingredients they are made from. Homeopathy not only offers relief from temporary disorders but, can provide long term healing of a person due to its individual and “wholistic” approach.

This often leads to a complete recovery from the dis-ease, as well as, providing an improved understanding of the patient’s situation. This type of healing makes it easier and possible to avoid recurrence or relapses in the future and, homeopathy stimulates the body’s natural defense system by reestablishing normal immune system and cell functioning. For dermatitis, consider these remedies:

• Rhus Toxicodendron 6c for symptoms of intense itching, pain is worse after scratching, restlessness.
• Sulfur 6c if symptoms occur after bathing or exposure to water, burning itch, moist or weepy rash.
• Apis Mellifica 30c if symptoms occur due to an allergic reaction to food or chemicals. Red swollen skin that burns, hives.

Nutrition

• Water is essential in any healing process. Distilled water is the best. 6-8 eight ounces glasses per day.
• Food allergies can play a major role in dermatitis during childhood. They are related before age 6. You can manipulate an infant’s diet and do well in helping their skin. Eggs, orange juice, and milk have been implicated as eczema aggravators in children. Parents should consult with their physicians about trying elimination diets. In general, these are foods that should not be eliminated. It is only after testing them out by, by first eliminating them and then re-introducing them back into the diet. Such diets seem to work best in infants less than 2 years old. After age 6, it is believed by experts that food plays a minimal role in most people.
• For adults, diet manipulation should be undergone by each individual. If you think there’s any food you eat that has an adverse effect on your skin, avoid it and see what happens, If your problem clears up, you may have a food allergy.
• Eliminate milk and all milk products from the diet.
• Take 500 milligrams of Black Currant Oil twice a day. Give children under 12 half that dose. This takes six to eight weeks to produce the desired effect.

Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective (TCM)

Atopic dermatitis is known as Si Wan Feng, which means ‘four bends wind,’ and shows in the skin regions that are commonly affected; the elbows and the knees. The pathological causes include the six external evils. Other patterns include fetal toxins and blood dryness

From a TCM view, atopic eczema and asthma involve the connection between the Lungs and the skin. These two symptoms are very clearly related and often one will appear as the other improves. There is a relationship between the Lungs and skin.

The irritability and anger caused by the itching and lack of sleep leads to stagnation of the Liver Qi as indicated by the poor Blood circulation. This further weakens the Spleen as the stagnated Liver Qi invades the Spleen.

• TCM Diagnosis: Damp-Heat obstructing with underlying constitutional Lung Qi deficiency.
• Principles of Treatment: Clear heat, drain damp, stop the itching.
• Root: Tonify the Lung Qi

Herbal Formula

Chu Shi Wei Ling Tang with Er Miao Tang plus Ku Shen and Bai Xian Pi.Cang Zhu 3g, Hou Po 3g, Chen Pi 3g, Zhu Ling 3g, Ze Xie 3g, Chi Fu Ling 3g, Chao Bai Zhu 3g, Hua Shi 3g, Fang Feng 3g, Zhi Zi 3g, Rou Gui 1g, Gan Cao 1g, Deng Xin Cao 3g, Huang Bai 9g, Ku shen 9g, Bai xian pi 6g

To be decocted and taken once in the morning and once in the evening after meals. This formula is used to clear heat and dry dampness in the lower burner, regulate Qi, and harmonize the middle burner.

This formula is modified to include other herbs to relieve the itching. Cang Zhu dries the dampness in the lower Jiao. Hou Po and Chen Pi both regulate Qi and transform dampness. Zhu Ling and Ze Xie leech out dampness and promote urination. Chi Fu Ling clears damp-heat. Chao Bai Zhu dries dampness. Hua Shi expels dampheat through urination and Fang Feng expels wind-damp. Zhi Zi clears heat, drains damp-heat and eliminates irritability.

Rou Gui leads fire back to the source and encourages the generation of Blood. Gan Cao acts to protect the middle Jiao and harmonize the formula. Deng Xin Cao clears heat from the Heart channel and promotes urination. Huang Bai treats the damp-heat in the lower Jiao, Ku Shen clears heat, dries dampness and relieves itching. Bai Xian Pi also clears heat, eliminates dampness and relieves itching.

External application: Shi Zhen San

Huang Qin 150g, Duan Shi Gao 150g, Han Shui Shi 250g, Wu Bei Zi 125gGrind all the herbs together into a fine powder. Mix with vegetable oil to form a paste, or sprinkle some of the powder directly on the affected area. Apply once or twice daily.

Shi Zhen San is used topically to clear the damp-heat. Huang Qin clears damp-heat, and Duan Shi Gao clears heat. Han Shui Shi drains fire and Wu Bei Zi relieves fire toxicity and absorbs moisture.The root of this disorder is deficient Qi which predisposes the patient to damp-heat. Once the damp-heat has been cleared, Bu Fei Tang be used to tonify the root. Tonifying the Lung Qi, will strengthen the Lung and Wei Qi, which augments the Qi and stabilizes the exterior. Once the Lung Qi is strong and able to nourish the Wei Qi and stop the reoccurring colds, then Spleen should be tonified in order to maintain a constant supply of Qi and Blood for all the organs.

Acupuncture Points

The points used for eczema (atopic dermatitis) include: Du14, LI11, Sp10. St36, Sp6, Ht7, UB17 plus Ht8, Lv5 (for severe itching) and Sp9 (for dampness).

Managing Dermatitis

Dermatitis is aggravated by dehumidified air, especially during winter months when forced-air heat circulates in the home. Forced-air heat is more drying than other types of heat.

Since dry air tends to aggravate the itching of eczema or dermatitis, keeping indoor air moist should be a primary concern of sufferers and their families.

If you can counter dry air with a good humidifier, then forced-air heat is not as much of a problem. Humidifiers are like air conditioners— you really need a big unit to do anything. If you sleep next to it, however, that’s okay. Put it next to your bed.

Phototherapy (exposure to ultraviolet light) often helps adults. This treatment is rarely recommended for children because of its potential long-term side effects, including skin cancer and cataracts.

Treat Mild to Severe Eczema Symptoms – Naturally

Prescription creams, gels and many home remedies are common forms of eczema treatments. Many of these eczema remedies may contain chemicals and other potentially harmful ingredients.

Even though there is no cure for eczema, home treatment is possible. Natural products work with your body to heal your symptoms, as opposed to harsh eczema creams & prescriptions which could have adverse effects.

Heal Eczema is all natural and safe to use anywhere on the body – for adults and young children. Tried and tested since 2001, our gentle formulation provides quick relief for all types of eczema.

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