Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): Home remedies to soothe symptoms

This post is all about eczema, a skin condition that causes red, itchy, and inflamed skin. We’ll discuss what causes eczema, its symptoms, and available treatments. We’ll also provide some tips on how to manage the condition and improve your skin health. Our goal is to provide readers with an understanding of the condition and give them the tools to manage their skin. We’ll also provide resources for those seeking additional information and support.

What is Eczema?

It is also known as atopic dermatitis (Scientific), Dad khaj khujali (Hindi/Urdu), isab / kharuj (Marathi), Eksima (Tamil), Shi zhen (Chinese), Eczema (Spanish / Portuguese), Charma rog bisesa (Bengali), ekzema (Russian). It is an inflammation of the skin that causes itching and redness. Eczema in its acute form is indicated by redness and swelling of the skin, the formation of minute vesicles and severe heat. If the vesicles rupture, a raw, moist surface is formed. From this, a colorless discharge oozes, which forms skin crusts when it accumulates. The disease is usually worst at night when the heat of the body is retained by the bed clothes. The skin itches at all stages. In the wet stage, it may become infected with bacteria. The healing of the condition is affected by scratching in response to the irritation. Scratching not only spreads infection but also lengthens the stage of dryness and scaling. Skin applications to cure eczema may give temporary relief. If the exudation is suppressed, some other more serious disease may develop. The best way to deal with eczema is to cleanse the blood stream and the body.

Root Causes

The skin is the body’s largest organ. A number of things can trigger local skin inflammation, or dermatitis, in sensitive people. Allergies play an important part in causing eczema. In contact dermatitis, the offending agents come into direct contact with the skin. Examples include poison ivy, nickel jewelry, sheep’s lanolin, topical antibiotics, and ingredients in detergents and body care products. Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, a condition that tends to run in families, along with hay fever and asthma. It is a feature of many different skin disorders arising from many different causes. Affected patches of skin are red, itchy, scaly, and thickened, and in some cases oozing and crusty. Allergens that provoke the inflammation may be difficult or impossible to identify. It can also be hereditary. If you have eczema, your doctor will probably advise switching to hypoallergenic personal care products and laundry detergent, keeping your skin hydrated, and prescription anti-inflammatory creams for flare-ups. Some waste matter from the body is excreted from the pores of the skin through sweat. Sometime the pores of the skin are overworked as waste matter is not properly eliminated from the other orifices. If the pores are not given the chance to perform their normal function, the sweat will be full of morbid matter and this gives rise to skin diseases like eczema, acne, boils and other eruptions.

Symptoms and Types

History In ancient China, healers considered eczema “asthma of the skin,” as many who suffered skin outbreaks also suffered asthma. Types of eczema include

• Contact Eczema: It is caused by allergens such as plants, metals, detergents, and chemical irritants.
• Atopic Eczema: It is associated with allergies such as hay fever.
• Pomphylox Eczema: It can be triggered by emotional stress.
• Varicose Eczema: This kind of eczema occurs in the region of varicose veins.

It can occur any where on body but bands, ears, feet, and legs are common body parts. In case of children common symptoms are burning and itching with a strong urge to scratch, possibly leading to infection. A small fluid-filled blisters which may burst to form sores. Eczema covers a wide variety of forms, the majority of them being of a chronic variety.

15 Best Natural Remedies

1. Promote Healing with Aloe Vera: In a clean bowl, whisk together 55 ml Aloe Vera gel and 60 ml high-quality oil. You can choose oil from olive, almond, coconut, apricot, or grapeseed oil. Blend in 12 drops of German chamomile essential oil. Immediately after bathing or showering, while your skin is still damp, apply a generous amount to your skin with clean fingers. Allow a couple of minutes for the moisturizer to absorb before getting dressed. Store leftover moisturizer in a clean, dry jar and can be use for 2 weeks. Aloe vera gel is anti-inflammatory, soothing, hydrating and can promote healing and may reduce inflammation. German chamomile (Matricaria recutita) has chemicals that reduce inflammation and allergies. The flavonoids quercetin and apigenin inhibit the release of histamine from immune cells called mast cells, which improves eczema like skin conditions. Essential oil of chamomile looks blue, due to a potent anti-inflammatory chemical called chamazulene.
2. Anti-inflammatory Herbs: Try drinking an infusion of burdock, chamomile, heartsease, marigold, and red clover, all of which are anti-inflammatory herbs.
3. Reduce Itching: Rub olive oil into patches of eczema, dandruff, and psoriasis to reduce itching and encourage healing. Olive oil soothes the itching, and moisturizes dry skin, hair, and scalp.
4. Treat Dermatitis Indian Way: For hives, rash, urticaria, dermatitis or eczema, apply neem oil OR tikta ghrita (bitter ghee) on the skin.
5. Oatmeal Compress to Soothe Itch: A compress of oatmeal or an oatmeal bath soothes eczema and other problem skin conditions. Put the seeds in a muslin bag under a running hot bathwater tap so that the decoction is strained into the bath — the soothing emollient activity of the seeds eases itching and nourishes the skin. The oat straw decoction also makes an effective skin wash to heal skin conditions. A poultice made from the grain has long been used to treat eczema, and other skin problems.
6. Effective Treatment for Itchy Skin: Horsetail is also an effective treatment of itchy skin and eczema. Soak 3 tablespoons of chopped horsetail in 1 liter/2 pints of water over night. Next day bring it to the boil for 3 minutes then leave covered for 10 minutes. Strain, then use to bathe affected areas. Do not drink.
7. Bathe sore patches with an infusion of witch hazel diluted in some warm water.
8. Peppermint oil is soothing for itchy skin. Apply at 2 percent dilution (2 drops per teaspoonful of carrier oil) to affected areas. The infusion can be applied as a lotion to relieve nettle rash and eczema. be careful to avoid the eyes.
9. Homemade DIY Cream: Powdered Marshmallow root mixed into a cream or added to water to make a paste for insect bites and weeping eczema.
10. Chickweed ointment can be applied directly to the affected area, and calendula oil may also be useful.
11. Linden Flower Bath for Infants: Especially good for dry skin and eczema with irritability. Take 12 g dried linden flowers and 500 ml water. Put into pan and bring to the boil, cover, and allow to stand for 15 minutes. Add to the baby’s bath. In infants, it is often caused by allergy to certain proteins in wheat, eggs, peanuts, chocolate, cow’s milk, chicken and potato.
12. Chinese Herbalism: Chinese herbs will be prescribed according to the specific cause and symptoms of your eczema, but some possible herbs are: wormwood, peony root, and Chinese gentian. Dittany bark and puncture vine fruit may help itching.
13. Treat the Root Cause: Try a blood-cleansing herbal combination. Mix the Indian herbs manjistha and neem in equal amounts. Take 1/2 teaspoon of this mixture 3 times a day with warm water after meals. It will cleanse the blood and help to heal allergies.
14. Encourage Healing with Natural Cure: Evening primrose oil has been used successfully in the treatment of eczema, reducing itching and encouraging healing. Researched in England since the 1980s, evening primrose seed oil (EPO) is high in omega-6 essential fatty acids and can prove helpful in a range of inflammatory conditions, such as menstrual problems, rheumatoid arthritis, and eczema. Less concentrated than borage oil but with similar therapeutic effects, EPO makes a useful supplement for eczema and dermatitis. It is considered safe for infants as well. For best results, take internally for several months and apply topically to affected areas of skin.
15. Kill Bacteria: Sun bathing is also beneficial as it kills the harmful bacteria and should be resorted to early in the morning, in the first light of dawn.

Prevention Tips to Avoid Eczema

• Stress can aggravate the condition. Emotional problems and severe mental stress are suspected of causing eczema. Do the stress less exercise, meditation recommended.
• Head skin scalp can be eczema, consult doctor for proper diagnosis.
• Cucumber juice, drunk daily, may help to control eczema.
• Avoid tea, coffee, alcoholic beverages and all condiments and highly flavored dishes.
• Take a B-complex supplement each day, and make sure your tablet contains good levels of niacin (B3), which is also found naturally in peanuts, meat, fish, and pulses.
• Vitamin C and bioflavonoids (which are often contained in a good vitamin C supplement) act as a natural antihistamine.

FAQs.

Q. What is eczema?
It is a type of skin condition that causes red, itchy, and inflamed patches of skin. It is often seen in children, but can occur in adults as well. Common symptoms include dry skin, itching, redness, burning, and flaking. Eczema can be caused by a variety of factors, such as genetics, allergies, or environmental triggers. Treatment typically involves using topical medications, moisturizers, and avoiding irritants.

Q. What is the main cause of eczema?
The exact cause is not known. It is likely caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Possible triggers for eczema include: dry skin, irritants such as soaps, detergents, and fragrances, allergies, stress, and weather changes.

Q. What are the 12 causes of eczema? Root causes

1. Genetic or hereditary factors
2. Environmental triggers such as dust mites, pollen, mold, pet dander, and certain fabrics
3. Stress
4. Allergens such as dairy, eggs, peanuts, soy, and wheat
5. Hormonal changes
6. Irritants such as soaps, detergents, and solvents
7. Microbes such as bacteria, viruses, and yeast
8. Temperature changes
9. Dry skin
10. Sweating or overheating
11. Foods high in histamine
12. Certain medications including antibiotics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Q. What are the symptoms of eczema?
The symptoms may vary from person to person, but can include:

• Dry, red, itchy skin
• Rashes or patches of skin that are thickened, cracked, or scaly
• Dark, discolored patches of skin
• Small bumps on the skin that may ooze fluid when scratched
• Thickened, ridged, or cracked skin on the palms of the hands or the soles of the feet

Q. What are the 4 stages of eczema?

1. Acute: This stage is characterized by red, inflamed skin that is covered in itchy bumps. It may also be accompanied by burning, stinging, and oozing.
2. Sub-acute: At this stage, the skin may become dry, scaly, and thickened. The area may also be covered in flaky, silver-colored scales.
3. Chronic: The skin in this stage may become thickened and leathery, with deep cracks and splits. It may also become very itchy, and the area may be filled with a clear fluid.
4. Remission: During this stage, the symptoms of eczema may improve or disappear altogether. However, this stage is usually temporary and the symptoms may return.

Q. What are different types of eczema? What is the most serious type?
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is the most serious type. It is a chronic, inflammatory skin disease characterized by red, itchy and scaly rashes. AD can lead to increased skin infections and can cause long-term skin damage if left untreated. Other types includes:

1. Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)
2. Contact Dermatitis
3. Seborrheic Dermatitis
4. Dyshidrotic Dermatitis
5. Nummular Dermatitis
6. Stasis Dermatitis
7. Neurodermatitis

Q. Can patchy eczema be cured?
Yes, patchy eczema can be cured. Treatment for patchy eczema usually involves avoiding triggers, using topical medications, and sometimes taking oral medications. In some cases, phototherapy can also be used to help clear up the condition. It is important to consult with a doctor to determine the best course of treatment.

Q. Do you know how to prevent eczema naturally?

1. Keep your skin hydrated. Use moisturizers regularly to keep your skin from getting dry.
2. Avoid harsh soaps and detergents. Choose mild, fragrance-free cleansers.
3. Wear cotton clothing. Wear loose-fitting clothes, as tight-fitting clothes can cause irritation and make the condition worse.
4. Avoid triggers. Identify and avoid any triggers that may cause an outbreak of eczema.
5. Use humidifiers. Humidifiers can help keep your skin hydrated and reduce irritation.
6. Take oatmeal baths. Oatmeal baths can help reduce itching and inflammation.
7. Use natural remedies. Natural remedies such as coconut oil, aloe vera, and tea tree oil may provide relief from eczema.

Q. Is eczema related to psychology?
Yes, eczema is related to psychology. People with eczema can experience emotional distress and anxiety, which can worsen the condition. Additionally, stress can trigger eczema flare-ups. Therefore, psychological interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy and relaxation techniques can be beneficial for those with eczema.

Q. Which cream is best for eczema?
The best cream is one that has been prescribed by a doctor or dermatologist. Common medications for eczema include topical corticosteroids, topical calcineurin inhibitors, topical antihistamines, and topical immunomodulators. These medications help reduce inflammation, reduce itchiness, and can help restore the skin’s barrier.

Q. Which is the best laundry detergent for someone with eczema?
The best laundry detergent is one that is specifically designed for sensitive skin. Look for laundry detergents that are hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and dye-free. Avoid detergents that contain harsh chemicals, such as bleach and ammonia, as these can be very irritating to the skin. Additionally, consider using an extra rinse cycle when washing clothes to ensure that all detergent is removed from the fabric.

Q. What are the best moisturizing lotions for eczema?
The best moisturizing lotion will depend on the individual’s skin type and the severity. When selecting a moisturizing lotion for eczema, look for one that is fragrance-free and specifically designed for sensitive skin. Additionally, look for ingredients like colloidal oatmeal, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid that are known to help soothe and hydrate skin. Avoid lotions that contain fragrances, alcohol, and dyes as these can aggravate symptoms. Few popular brands are:

1. Cetaphil Body and Face Moisturizing Lotion 
2. Eucerin Eczema Relief Body Creme 
3. Aveeno Eczema Therapy Moisturizing Cream 
4. Vanicream Moisturizing Skin Cream 
5. CeraVe Eczema Soothing Creamy Oil 
6. Neosporin Eczema Essentials Daily Moisturizing Cream 
7. Aveeno Baby Eczema Therapy Moisturizing Cream 
8. Mustela Stelatopia Emollient Cream 
9. Skinfix Eczema+ Hand Repair Cream 
10. Aveeno Dermexa Daily Emollient Cream

Q. What is the best essential oil for eczema?
The best essential oil is typically a combination of lavender, chamomile, and/or tea tree oil. These oils can help reduce inflammation, itchiness, and redness. It is important to dilute these oils in a carrier oil before applying to the skin in order to reduce the risk of irritation.

Q. What soap is best for eczema?
The best soaps are those that are mild and moisturizing, and free of fragrances, dyes, and other irritants. Look for soaps that are labeled as “sensitive skin,” “allergy-free,” or “unscented.” Examples of soaps that are often recommended for eczema include Dove Sensitive Skin Unscented Beauty Bar, Cetaphil Gentle Cleansing Bar, and CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser.

Q. Which oil is best for scalp eczema?
The best oil for scalp eczema is one that contains natural anti-inflammatory ingredients, such as tea tree oil, coconut oil, and olive oil. These oils can help soothe the skin and reduce irritation. Additionally, they can help reduce dryness and flaking, which are common symptoms.

Q. What is the best way to treat eczema in a toddler without using a cream?

• The best way to treat the condition in a toddler without using a cream is to manage the environment to reduce exposure to triggers, practice good skin care, and use non-steroid topical medications. 
• Environmental modifications include avoiding harsh soaps, using a gentle cleanser, reducing heat and humidity, avoiding irritating fabrics, and using a humidifier.
• Good skin care includes keeping the skin moisturized, avoiding scratching, and gently washing the affected area with lukewarm water.
• Non-steroid topical medications include topical corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, and other anti-inflammatory medications.

Q. How do we rid a baby of eczema?
The most effective way to treat it in babies is to keep their skin moisturized and hydrated. Applying a moisturizer immediately after bathing and multiple times throughout the day can help soothe the skin and reduce itching. Gentle and natural products such as oatmeal, coconut oil, and calendula can also be used to help relieve itching and irritation. If the eczema is severe and doesn’t respond to home remedies, it is important to consult a doctor who can prescribe topical medications or other treatments.

Q. How do I stop my toddler from scratching her eczema?
There are a few ways to help prevent your toddler from scratching their eczema.

1. Keep their nails trimmed short.
2. Use a topical cream such as hydrocortisone to help soothe the itching.
3. Put on mittens or gloves when they are sleeping or when they are likely to scratch.
4. Distract your toddler with activities such as coloring or playing with toys when they feel the urge to scratch.
5. Take a cool bath or shower to relieve the itching.
6. Use a humidifier in their bedroom to help keep their skin moisturized.
7. Give your toddler a stuffed animal to hold or squeeze when they feel the urge to scratch.

Q. How often should you bathe a toddler with eczema?
It is recommended to bathe your toddler with eczema at least two to three times per week to help keep their skin clean and moisturized. It is important to avoid overly hot water and use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser. After each bath, it is important to immediately apply a moisturizer that is free of fragrances and preservatives.

Q. Does peeling skin mean eczema is healing?
Yes, it is possible that peeling skin can indicate that eczema is healing. The peeling skin is caused by dryness, which can be a sign of healing. However, it is important to speak to a doctor to make sure that the eczema is healing properly.

Q. Is chocolate good for eczema?
No, chocolate is not recommended. Chocolate contains milk, which can be a trigger for eczema flare-ups. Chocolate also contains caffeine, which can cause dehydration and exacerbate symptoms.

Q. Is a massage good for eczema?
Massage can be beneficial for those with eczema, as it can help to reduce stress levels and improve circulation. However, if your condition is severe, it is best to seek advice from a dermatologist before having a massage.

Q. What are the foods to avoid if I have eczema?

• Processed and fried foods
• Refined carbohydrates, such as white bread, pasta, and pastry
• Dairy products
• Foods high in sugar and saturated fat
• Nuts and seeds
• Citrus fruits
• Artificial additives and preservatives
• Alcohol
• Foods high in salicylates, such as tomatoes, eggplant, and spinach

Q. Is the carnivore diet (non vegetarian food) good for eczema?
The carnivore diet may improve symptoms of eczema for some people, as it eliminates foods that can trigger inflammation. However, it is important to note that this diet is not recommended for everyone, and people should consult a doctor before making any drastic changes to their diet. Additionally, it is important to make sure that the diet is balanced and includes all necessary nutrients.

Q. Has anyone been able to cure eczema using homeopathy? Can homeopathy cure it?
Homeopathy is a holistic form of medicine that can aid in the relief of symptoms associated with eczema, such as redness, itching, and inflammation. Homeopathic medicines help to regulate the body’s response to an allergic or inflammatory trigger, and can be used to reduce the intensity of the symptoms. Homeopathic medicines may also help to reduce the itching and inflammation associated with eczema. Homeopathic remedies are often prescribed to help reduce the severity of these symptoms and to encourage healing. By stimulating the body’s natural healing ability, homeopathic treatments are thought to help reduce the recurrence of eczema. Homeopathic practitioners may also recommend lifestyle changes that can help reduce stress levels, which can worsen eczema symptoms. Each individual may respond differently to homeopathic remedies, and a qualified homeopath can help to determine the best remedy for each person.

Q. What is the difference between psoriasis and eczema?
Psoriasis and eczema are both skin conditions that cause inflammation, redness, and itchiness. However, they have different causes and treatments. Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition caused by an overactive immune system that causes the skin to produce too many skin cells, leading to areas of thick, red, and scaly patches. Eczema is a skin condition caused by a variety of environmental, genetic, and immune system factors that results in red, itchy, dry patches of skin. Treatment for psoriasis usually involves topical medications and light therapy, while eczema is typically treated with a combination of moisturizers, anti-inflammatory medications, and topical steroids.

Q. Can mega dosing vitamin D help eczema?
At this time, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that mega dosing vitamin D can help treat eczema. However, research suggests that vitamin D may play a role in skin health, and some studies have suggested that vitamin D supplementation can help reduce the severity of symptoms. Because more research is needed, it is advised that individuals speak with their healthcare provider before attempting to use vitamin D supplements to treat eczema.

Q. Can eczema be caused by eating fish?
No, it is not caused by eating fish. It is a skin condition that is caused by a variety of different things, including genetics, environmental factors, and allergies.

Q. Can exercise cause eczema?
Exercise itself is not known to cause it, however, sweating can cause irritation to the skin which can worsen symptoms. Exercise can also cause an increase in stress levels which can lead to flare-ups. It is important to take proper precautions when exercising in order to reduce the risk of worsening symptoms. These precautions include wearing loose fitting clothing, taking cool showers after exercising and using moisturizers to keep the skin hydrated.