Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic allergic condition where the skin develops areas of itchy, scaly skin. It can occur on most parts of the body and it gets worse when you scratch it. Symptoms of eczema include areas of dryness, leathery skin, blisters that ooze and crust over, and redness and inflammation in the affected area. Instead of using treatments like steroids that may have unwanted side effects, why not consider these natural remedies for eczema?
1. Consider coconut oil. Eczema is a complex condition stemming from a variety of sources, but spreading a thin layer of coconut oil on the inflamed area is a simple solution that may do quite a bit to soothe the itching and pain associated with this skin disorder. Sunflower oil and tea tree oil are found to be helpful too.
2. Try cod liver oil. Fermented cod liver oil may sound gross, but it’s a great source of skin loving nutrients like vitamins A, D, E, and K. Take 1 tablespoon of fermented cod liver daily to treat eczema naturally. Not your thing, you can also eat sardines and salmon to help soothe your skin especially during flare ups.
3. Try a magnesium bath. Combine 2 cups of epsom salts (which contain magnesium) with 2 tablespoons of Himalayan sea salt, and fill the bath tub up half way for a healing bath soak. While for some people with eczema, soaking in water actually makes the condition worse, it can be really effective for those that can tolerate it. Magnesium also works on other skin conditions like psoriasis, dry skin, and acne.
4. Ease your stress. Skin conditions are often closely linked to stress. Address underlying lifestyle factors that may be causing you stress and consider adopting some stress relieving techniques such as mediation, breath-work or finding someone to talk to can be beneficial.
5. Apply Honey. It has been said that applying honey to the affected areas of the skin during an eczema or psoriasis flare up can help soothe the skin because of it's anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. If trying honey, make sure to use a medical grade honey like Manuka honey which is free of potential contaminants.
6. Moisturize, Moisturize. Dry, itchy skin is often a cause and symptom of eczema. Moisturizing often is so important to keep the skin hydrated and provide relief from eczema symptoms. Moisturize at least twice a day with something like Zax's Original Eczema Repair Cream made with effective natural ingredients like colloidal oatmeal, vitamin E, aloe and tea tree oil.
Written by Alyssa Rolnick, Co-Founder of Zax’s Original Products, Registered Dietitian and Mother of 3 active kids.