Eczema is a type of skin disease classified as dermatitis. It is a common problem and can happen to anyone. It is defined by inflammation of the skin. There are multiple red rashes that can crack, blister, flake, scale, or ooze. Here are some herbs that can help you treat eczema:
1. Chamomile
Chamomile has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties that make it effective for treating eczema. The effects of chamomile on skin are backed by several studies conducted in Germany. The University of Michigan conducted a trial which showed that topical applications of chamomile were 60% as effective as 0.25% hydrocortisone cream. This herb promotes healing and helps relieve burning and itching per the University of Maryland Medical Center.
2. Witch Hazel
Creams made with witch hazel are effective for treating eczema. Per the University of Maryland Medical Center, witch hazel helps soothe itching while the liquid form helps stop the oozing of eczema. The University of Michigan Health System explained that application of an ointment of witch hazel is as effective as hydrocortisone cream.
3. Chickweed
Chickweed is an uncommon herb, its a small white flower native to Europe. It has been used in herbal medications and Chinese medicines to treat skin diseases for hundreds of years. It is highly recommended by herbalists for skin problems. It has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties due to several compounds of polysaccharides, flavonoids, and cyclic peptides.
4. Calendula
Calendula is an old herb well-known for its amazing effects on skin. It has been used for many generations to treat various skin conditions. It reduces inflammation, eliminates bacteria, and helps with skin healing. A study conducted in 2004 found that formation of acute dermatitis in women who had went through radiation treatment for breast cancer was much lower for those who used calendula ointment or cream.
5. Oats
Oatmeal has been used for many years to treat itching and irritation. Due to compounds called avenanthramides, oats are potent anti-inflammatory agents and also exhibit anti-oxidant activity. Several studies show that oats help significantly reduce skin redness, dryness, scaling, itching, and erythema.
6. Licorice
The root extracts from licorice are well-known herbs for combating eczema. There are laboratory tests that prove application of a topical preparation of licorice extract helps treat skin conditions like dermatitis, eczema, pruritus, and cysts by reducing itching after 2 weeks.
7. Jewelweed
Jewel weed is also known as lady’s slipper, lady’s eardrops, and spotted-touch-me-not. Jewel weed juice is helpful for treatment of several skin problems including eczema, rashes, athlete’s foot, and ringworm. It is easy to use, just crush the leaves and apply to the affected area.
8. Aloe vera
Aloe vera has been widely used for its various skin benefits for more than 2000 years. The gel of aloe vera is effective, just extract the gel from a leaf and apply it to the affected area. It will treat your rashes and give you glowing skin. You can use it regularly for glowing skin.
9. Turmeric
Turmeric has amazing wound-healing powers. It contains antioxidant, antiviral, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties which are helpful for treating eczema. It reduces inflammation of the skin and heals it. It has several other uses and is a well-known herb for its many benefits.
10. Lavender
Lavender is the most versatile herb available for skin treatment. It has all the properties that are good for skin. It helps stimulate cellular growth and regeneration by letting your upper skin layer rejuvenate itself. It deals with infection as well as reducing inflammation quickly.
[Last Updated on June 28th 2014]
