Eczema, a type of atopic dermatitis, is a disease that inflames the skin and causes itchiness, blisters and rash. The condition is chronic (long-lasting), and it can occur at any time. Eczema is a common disease in children, but it can happen at any age. Also, childhood eczema may clear up with age in some cases; while others continue throughout adulthood. While the exact source of eczema is unknown, the condition is believed to be triggered by an overactive immune system response.
The resulting symptoms include itchiness, brown or red scaly patches of skin, cracked skin, and bumps that may leak or ooze. Treatment for eczema often includes a combination of over-the-counter topical remedies, doctor-prescribed medications, and eczema self-care, which may include the following home remedies to soothe both symptoms and frequency of flare ups:
1. Eczema diet
Certain foods can reduce and cause inflammation in the skin. A few dietary changes can reduce flare-ups. Some foods that can reduce inflammation include:
- Fatty fish
- Fresh vegetables, including leafy greens
- Fruits
- beans and legumes
- Turmeric
- Cinnamon
- Try to eliminate known triggers such as soy, wheat, eggs and dairy from your diet
2. Aloe vera gel
For centuries, aloe vera gel has been a great resource for healing and treatments for many skin ailments, such as eczema, for it’s natural antimicrobial and anti-bacterial properties. Aloe vera gel is taken from the aloe leaf to soothe symptoms of cracked, dry, inflamed, and burning skin. Topical aloe is also useful in preventing the skin from becoming infected as well as to promote wound-healing. Aloe vera gel can be purchased online, or at your local health stores or you can buy the plant and take the gel directly from the leaves. Before applying the gel, test a small are for skin sensitivity sometimes aloe vera gel can cause stinging or burning. However, the gel is generally effective and safe for children and adults.
3. Colloidal oatmeal
Finely ground oats, or colloidal oatmeal, is also known for it’s natural skin-healing properties. A 2015 report shows that lotion made from colloidal oatmeal has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Lotions and creams made with colloidal oats are often used to soothe sensitive skin, improve scaling, roughness, skin dryness, and intense itching. Colloidal oatmeal can be purchased at your local health store and online. Choose a product with oats and all natural ingredients and with no other additives.
4. Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is manufactured from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia tree. This oil is states often touted as anti-inflammatory, wound healing, and antibacterial, which can help prevent infection and relieve itching and skin dryness associated with eczema. Tea tree oil can be purchased online and in your local health store. Before you use the tea tree oil always dilute it with a carrier oil such as olive oil or almond oil.
