Get rid of that itch! - Herbal remedies for Eczema

Do you have an irritable itch that you are just dying to scratch? Are you suffering from flaky and dry skin that is making your life hell? If so, then you’re not alone. Whether it is because of Acne, rashes, Rosacea, to most common flare ups such as Psoriasis or Eczema, having a skin disorder is not a pretty sight.

According to leading charities such as the British Skin foundation in the UK and The National Eczema Association in California; it is estimated that there are at least over 1 million people who are affected by skin disorders such as Psoriasis and eczema every year.

Eczema is the second most widespread skin disorder in both the UK and the US and can affect people in all age groups. The National Eczema Society has estimated that up to one fifth of school children have eczema, and at least one in twelve affect adults. Children, who suffer from Eczema, generally have rashes on their faces and necks, whereas older people tend to have this on their elbows, arms and even backs. The severity of this disease varies from person to person; with the mildest outbreak consisting of dry, hot and itchy skin, which can usually be treated by medicated creams. For more severe outbreaks, this usually refers to chapped and broken skin that can cause bleeding. Although it is not contagious, Eczema can look very unpleasant. There are many different forms that can cause an outbreak of eczema. Apart from Hay fever being the most common factor, some people are allergic to certain creams and washing detergents used in their clothes which can cause an itch. Some even find vinegar and eating too many diary products a frequent cause.

Although there are no known cures for such skin disorders, they can easily be controlled.

So if you are suffering from blotchy irritable skin and are desperate for a cure to resist the sudden urge to scratch, then fear not as nature is at hand. Take heed of these helpful tips:

1. Lemon Balm and Chamomile – two of the most useful oils to use on the skin due to its soothing elements, they should be used in at most 1 per cent dilution initially. Or to treat a larger area of Eczema, apply 5 drops to 500ml of water and apply as a cool compress on the affected area.
2. Calendula (Marigold) – this popular flower herb is antibacterial and anti-flammatory and great for reducing the redness of inflamed skin. Available as a cream, it stimulates the production of collagen relieving painful irritated skin and speeds up the healing process.
3. Chickweed (Stellaria media) – one of the prolific garden herbs in the world with its bright green teardrop leaves, this fresh herb is a great source of Vitamin C and also contains Vitamins A, B and Fatty Acids. Noted for its cooling qualities, this works wonders when applied on hot and itchy skin.
4. Aloe Vera – Another great anti-inflammatory herb which is known for its soothing qualities, it is also an immune stimulant. This can be used either straight from the plant and applied directly on to the skin or available in the form of gels and creams. Aloe contains amino acids, calcium, iron, zinc as well as vitamins A C and E. Also available is Aloe Vera juice which can be taken internally.
5. Evening Primrose and Starflower Oil – traditional favourites, these are available as either multivitamin tablets, syrups or as body moisturising creams. These are extracted from the actual seeds and contain healthy elements, which aids the skin, restoring its natural balance.
6. Red Clover - a wild plant contains many medical properties and the pink flowering heads contain ant-bacterial elements and reduce the chances of inflammation.
7. Turmeric Plant – a traditional antiseptic and anti-oxidant this ayurvedic spice has been used for centuries. The anti-oxidant element helps to stabilize cell damage improving pigmentation and making skin feel soft and supple.

8. Drink plenty of water: Your skin is the largest organ in your body and is prone to every day bacteria and changing weather conditions. Drink at least 8 glasses of bottled water a day. Water contains plenty of minerals, which will stop your skin from dehydrating and drying out.

We all know that real beauty is beyond skin deep and the secret to healthy glowing skin is having a healthy and balanced diet. The use of constant manufactured and medicated creams can confuse and dry out your skin, ruining its PH, balance. The herbal therapies are renowned for having an extremely good effect in treating people with Eczema with lasting results, so why not let nature boost the way?