Eczema, also referred to as atopic dermatitis, is a disease that produces inflammation of the skin and affects about 35 million people in America alone. It consists of a group of several diseases including atopic dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, irritant contact dermatitis, and stasis dermatitis. They all can cause blisters and rashes. They also cause red and itchy, thickened skin. The location of the disease and the duration of the outbreak varies.
Treatment usually consists of moisturizers, steroid creams and antibiotics. Some believe that eczema is hereditary because you may be affected if your parents had the disease but the causes of eczema are often unknown. It’s believed to be caused by the immune system’s reaction to an irritant in the body. Some believe that some of the causes of eczema are:
- Skin irritation
- Skin allergy
- Genetics
Coping with eczema can be infuriating. Whether dealing with Atopic dermatitis or stasis dermatitis, finding the right formula for treatment will vary from person to person. Age, symptoms, medical history, etc. There are several variables to consider when striving to conquer the itching, skin irritation, flares and infections caused by eczema. Traditional remedies include medications like corticosteroid creams, pills and shots containing hydrocortisone steroids which relieve itching; antibiotics to fight against bacteria that produce skin infections; antihistamines for allergy itch and relief; barrier repair moisturizers; NSAID ointments for anti-inflammation, and more. Today there are also plenty of natural treatments for your consideration, such as:
1. Acupuncture
An ancient Chinese technique that helps relieve itchiness, inflammation and pain. This holistic practice is a major aspect of Eastern medicine and bears fruit with eczema. Of course, results will vary from person to person.
2. Aloe vera gel
The aloe plant has been proven to be beneficial for treating a wide array of ailments and diseases including eczema. Some of the most impressive variables of aloe include that it has antimicrobial, antibacterial, immune-boosting and healing properties. You can buy aloe gel products or just use the healing ingredients straight from the plant.
3. Apple cider vinegar
Promoted by the National Eczema Association, this remedy is helpful but please use with caution (the acids found in Vinegar can be harmful). Apple cider vinegar helps fight bacteria and modify the acid contained in your skin. Always use this formula:
- 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar for every cup of water
- Use Q-Tip or cotton balls to apply
4. Honey
This heavenly elixir has natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Honey has been used for everything from immune-boosting to relieving pain associated with burns to healing wounds. Just apply it directly to your affected areas and see the results.
5. Tea tree oil
This powerful remedy derives from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia tree. It has been proven to treat various skin problems, including eczema. It provides antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It soothes dry skin and itching. It also helps heal wounds and prevent infections.
As 1 to 3% of adults, and 10 to 20% of children in America deal with eczema, medical professionals look for better ways to aid them. With the advancement of technology and medicine hopefully, we can end this disease soon, until then use the natural treatments for eczema mentioned above to ease your condition.
