Natural remedies for eczema

Humidifier is a device that helps maintain optimum moisture levels in its surrounding area. It can be really handy in dry winters and hot summers, two of the worst seasons for eczema. And the best part is that it is really easy to use. Just switch it on and the machine will do its work.

Humidifier also helps trap any allergens or dust in the atmosphere that may be triggering your condition. However, there is a catch here too. To keep your humidifier in working condition and to prevent the spread of respiratory infections, you need to regularly clean the machine and ensure that it does not contain mineral scales. The latter may pave a way for mould growth, which may just worsen your condition rather than improving it. This can be easily prevented by using distilled water in a humidifier instead of normal tap water.

Turmeric can be used both orally or topically for relieving eczema symptoms. Studies suggest that topical applications of turmeric in various forms exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties and may thus be effective in relieving itching and swelling associated with eczema. Here is an easy way to use turmeric:

What you'll need:

• 1/2 teaspoon of Turmeric powder
• Coconut oil
• Bowl

Procedure:

• Take turmeric powder in a clean bowl
• Add some coconut to it
• Mix them properly to make a paste
• Wash and dry the affected area properly 
• Apply this paste on the affected area
• Keep the paste for some time (about 15-20 minutes) and let it do its work
• Wash it off with plain water

Note:

• Water can be used in place of coconut oil to make the paste. But it is best to use coconut oil since it adds its own benefits to the paste.
• You can also use turmeric gel. But it is not possible to prepare turmeric gel at home so you may have to buy commercial products containing turmeric as a primary ingredient. Look for a natural or organic product that has minimum chemicals and preservatives in it and is manufactured especially for eczema.

Tulsi, also known as holy basil is another common remedy for eczema. It is an excellent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agent that helps reduce swelling and prevents bacterial infections of the skin. Furthermore, the antioxidants present in basil aid in promoting wound healing and an overall improvement in skin health. Though you can’t extract basil oil at home, it is easily available in the market in the form of essential oil. Here is a way you can use basil for eczema:

What you'll need:

• Basil essential oil
• Cotton swab

Procedure:

• Wash the affected area properly to remove all the dirt and germs
• Dab it dry with a soft cloth
• Using a cotton ball, apply basil oil on the affected area
• Leave it on and let the oil do its work
• You do not need to wash it off

Tip: When looking for essential oils, look for safety labels and grade certifications. Never put essential oil directly on the skin, some oils may lead to irritation. Instead, put a few drops of essential oil in an appropriate carrier oil (make a 2% solution) such as coconut oil or olive oil before use.

If you do not find good quality essential oil, you can also make a poultice (paste) out of basil leaves and honey and apply them directly on your rashes to get symptomatic relief.

Aloe vera can be considered as skin’s best friend. Along with therapeutic benefits in all other skin problems, aloe vera is really effective in reducing eczema symptoms too. This succulent plant has a cooling and soothing effect on skin that provides immediate relief from dry and itchy skin. Furthermore, it promotes skin regeneration and reduces redness and swelling associated with most skin conditions. Now, let us take a look at how to use aloe vera:

What you’ll need:

• Aloe vera gel

Procedure:

• Clean the affected area with plain water
• Dab it dry without rubbing with a soft towel
• Now take a pinch of aloe vera gel
• Apply this gel gently and evenly on the affected area
• Your skin will absorb the gel slowly

Tip: There are many brands selling extracted aloe vera gel in the market. But these packaged gels have chemicals that can be harmful. So, it is advised to prepare fresh aloe vera gel at home to avoid these chemicals. Here is an easy way to do so:

What you’ll need:

• Aloe vera,
• Knife
• Air-tight container
• Blender

Procedure:

• Get a fresh leaf of aloe vera
• Wash it properly with plain water
• Peel it off to extract the gel. It is the transparent substance sheathed with the outer lamina of the leaf
• Grind the extracted gel in a blender
• Collect blended gel in an air-tight container
• Refrigerate it to be used within a week

Coconut oil has a soothing and moisturising effect on the skin that makes it effective in reducing dry and scaly skin patches associated with eczema. What gives this oil an edge over other remedies is a deep penetration capacity that helps it nourish your skin from the inside out. Adding on this, coconut oil also possesses anti-inflammatory properties, which facilitate the reduction of swelling and pain associated with eczema rashes. Here are some steps you should follow while applying coconut oil:

What you’ll need:

• Coconut oil

Procedure:

• Clean the affected area properly by applying some water
• Do not use soap. Pat dry the area properly with a soft towel
• Do not rub the towel
• Now take some amount of coconut oil in your palms
• Apply this oil gently and liberally on the rashes
• You do not need to wash the oil off; your skin will absorb most of it in no time
• Reapply it if required

Tip: 

• Try using virgin coconut oil rather than your normal coconut oil. This oil contains almost no chemicals and thus is more beneficial for your health.

Manuka honey is one of the best remedies for skin problems. It is a natural moisturiser and anti-inflammatory agent that keeps your skin hydrated and at the same time prevents irritation and rashes. The anti-bacterial and wound healing properties of this golden elixir help reduce irritation and prevents infection of wounds associated with eczema.

There are many ways manuka honey can be applied on the skin. One of the best ways is to use it as a moisturising pack. Follow the steps to know how to apply it:

What you’ll need:

• One tablespoon of manuka honey
• Two teaspoons of milk

Procedure:

• Take manuka honey in a clean bowl
• Mix it with milk
• Apply an even layer of this mixture on the affected area
• Keep it on for 5 to 10 minutes
• Wash it off with water
• Try not to use soap on this area

Tips:

• Apart from milk, you can also use coconut oil or olive oil.
• In case, you do not have manuka honey, normal honey can also be used. Just ensure that you are using natural and organic honey as artificial or commercial honey contains chemicals that can lead to skin irritation.