Herbs for eczema

What is important to know about eczema?

Eczema or atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammation of the skin, which is usually itchy and which is manifested through red or grayish-brown patches and small bumps from which a fluid may leak and which become crusted after scratching. These patches most frequently appear on feet and hands, elbows and knees, but chest, neck and face, especially the area around the eyes, tend to be affected as well. Unfortunately, this condition typically occurs in infants and small children, though there have been cases in which it appeared later in life.

Even though the real cause hasn’t been discovered yet and it is suspected that immune system has something to do with it, the majority of people who suffer from eczema have bacteria called staphylococcus aureus on their skin, and their multiplication makes the disease more serious. On the other side, the seriousness of the disease can be increased by factors such as stress, emotional disorders, sweating, dry skin, dust, clothing made of wool, particular foods and many others.

Since scratching is the main cause of serious complications, among the most common are neurodermatitis, infections of the skin and complications related to eyes, it should be avoided at any cost. As for the treatment, it consists of the medicines that should relieve the symptoms such as itching, inflammation and pain, so corticosteroids either in form of the cream, or ointment, antibiotics, and antihistamines are usually suggested. Phototherapy has proven to have many positive effects as well.

Herbs that can help in the treatment of eczema

When speaking about the treatment of eczema, it is important to say that herbs that can be used are also helpful only in treating the symptoms, which are known to be very irritating and in some cases even painful.

Aloe vera is a very common ingredient of many creams, and besides the fact that it helps the skin to heal and revitalize, it also decreases pain, itching and burning sensations.

Gotu kola is another helpful herb, particularly successful in the treatment of rashes and thickened skin, which is often a result of scratching. Besides that, it also reduces redness of the skin. An herb containing very strong antioxidant that destroys toxins is red clover, while olive leaf is particularly helpful in fighting off bacteria and infections. Flaxseed oil and evening primrose herb alleviate the inflammation and itching, while many creams contain the extracts of chamomile and licorice, which are also very helpful in the treatment of eczema.