Natural Methods to Soothe Eczema Symptoms at Home

Across the country, over 30 million individuals suffer from eczema. It is not a single condition but a group including atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, and dyshidrotic eczema, also known as hand eczema. Risk factors include genetic predisposition, adolescent obesity, and low vitamin D levels during pregnancy or poor nutrition. Causes can involve immune dysfunction, environmental triggers, allergens, temperature changes, and stress.

Genetics significantly influence eczema development, especially if family members are affected.

Obesity during adolescence may increase the likelihood of eczema later in life.

Low vitamin D levels, due to insufficient nutrition or during pregnancy, can heighten early-life eczema risk.

While causes vary, common factors include immune system issues, environmental influences, genetic skin alterations, allergic reactions to foods or products, temperature fluctuations, and stress.

Effective home remedies include:

Bath Treatments: Add vegetable or mineral oil to warm bathwater to hydrate skin. Mixing olive oil into milk and adding it to your bath can soothe dryness. Incorporate oatmeal or Epsom salt to reduce itching. Essential oils like lavender also offer calming effects.

Vegetable Shortening: Apply thick vegetable shortening on cracked skin, cover with plastic wrap, and secure with tape for a few hours. Repeat as needed to promote healing.

Turmeric: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric curcumin can help reduce eczema-related inflammation.

Apple Cider Vinegar: Diluted vinegar applied with a cotton ball can soothe inflamed skin. Avoid if skin is cracked or bleeding to prevent irritation.

Tea Tree Oil: A diluted mixture of tea tree oil and olive oil can decrease itching in mild cases.

Flaxseeds: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, flaxseeds can help reduce inflammation when included regularly in your diet.

Aloe Vera: Directly extract aloe vera gel from leaves to relieve itching and promote healing; available in stores.

Fish Oil: Consuming omega-3-rich fish like sardines or mackerel thrice weekly aids in symptom relief. Avoid omega-6 fats that may worsen inflammation.

Baking Soda: Dissolve baking soda in water and apply with a cloth for quick relief from itching.

These home remedies are generally suitable for mild to moderate eczema. Consulting a healthcare professional before use is recommended, especially in severe cases requiring medical treatment.