Laura Dolgy (see bio below)
If you’re prone to eczema then you’ve probably spent countless hours researching the best remedies for quick and effective relief. Unfortunately, not every trick and tip on the Internet works, but we’re here to break down the top 10 natural remedies for eczema that can be tried today with items you can probably find in your home.
Please keep in mind that although these tips can help remedy eczema, we are in no way medical professionals. If you’re experiencing severe eczema symptoms like fever or an infection, it is best to seek medical advice immediately.
Ready to get started on these remedies for eczema? Here they are:
1. Coconut Oil
In order to keep skin moisturized and less prone to dryness and cracking, applying coconut oil to your eczema can work wonders. It’s naturally antibacterial too, so it can help prevent infections. Keep in mind that the most natural and organic coconut oils for eczema will yield the best results. You can also use a natural soap bar that uses coconut oil such as our Emily Skin Soothers soap for eczema.
2. Acupressure
If you’ve never heard of acupressure, then you should know that it’s considered one of the best remedies for eczema. This alternative technique is similar to acupuncture in the sense that pressure is applied to different body pressure points to clear blockages. To get started on acupressure, check out our post: How to Use Acupressure for Eczema: A Home Remedy for Itchy Skin. It’s really quite simple to do yourself and you can start right now!
3. Elimination Diet
Many of us don’t realize that what we put into our bodies sometimes cause the most issues externally. If you haven’t already tried an elimination diet as a natural remedy for eczema, you might want to give it a try. The Eczema Cure is a great ebook based on eliminating common trigger foods and adding gut healing foods. I personally had great success with reducing my son’s eczema through this elimination diet and years later we were able to cut out the remaining minor eczema with the Auto Immune Paleo diet. Another approach can be found in The Eczema Diet by Karen Fischer which discusses how to heal your skin through simple dietary changes and daily skincare and is based on improving liver function and maintaining the right balance of acid to alkaline food intake.
4. Apple Cider Vinegar
For years, doctors have recommended that eczema sufferers take bleach baths to fight topical bacteria and heal their eczema. Not only are bleach baths toxic, yet they can cause some serious abrasions to skin that is already sensitive. A healthy bleach bath alternative is apple cider vinegar. Start with one cup of apple cider vinegar and pour it in your bath, so that it becomes diluted (you can increase the amount by 4-5 cups, yet you want to make sure it’s not irritating your skin). Soak for 10 minutes, then rinse. If you’re experiencing flare-ups, this is something you can do nightly, but make sure to decrease baths to 1-2 times per week to properly heal skin and prevent further outbreaks.
5. Aloe Vera
Have you ever noticed that it feels immediately better after applying aloe vera to sunburnt skin? This amazing plant is also one of our remedies for eczema! Whether your skin is red, burning or itchy, aloe vera can provide a cooling and soothing effect on your skin. You can choose to cut open an aloe vera plant and squeeze out the juice from inside or you can go with a natural skin care product such as this Coconut Aloe Moisturizing Serum or Organic Aloe Vera Skin Soothing Spray. Just beware of most aloe gel found in the drugstore as they contain alcohol and will really burn your skin, especially if you apply it to an open eczema wound.
6. Organic Honey
Honey – specifically Manuka Honey, is a great way to reduce eczema flare-ups and prevent scarring. It has exceptional anti-inflammatory properties and can be doubled up as a moisturizer and exfoliant. Simply apply the honey directly to your skin and gently rub it in. For a less sticky option, try my favorite Organic Manuka Skin Soothing Cream which contains both Manuka honey and Manuka oil (similar, but more effective than tea tree oil), which help to fight bacteria and heal eczema flares.
7. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has been used for centuries to provide natural relief to skin issues. This oil has antibacterial, anti-fungal and antiseptic properties, which can help with skin inflammation and general irritation. You can also add this oil to a variety of different skin care products including body washes, shampoos and creams. I also love to add a few drops to the washing machine when I wash my husband’s stinky gym clothes!
8. Turmeric
This herb is known for its antioxidant component, curcumin. It also helps with improving liver function. You can choose to either take turmeric supplements orally or can use tumeric from your spice rack to create a topical skin paste, or maybe do both! To make a skin paste, mix equal parts tumeric and raw honey and add tiny amounts of water to get to the consistency of your choosing. For an extra antibacterial boost, add a few drops of Manuka oil or Tea Tree oil.
9. Stay Hydrated
Although it may be obvious, drinking lots of water can also help relieve eczema. Not only does water help flush toxins out, but it can help keep skin hydrated and cool. If you have trouble keeping track of water throughout the day, you can use a smart cup with a drinking reminder alarm to make sure you’re drinking enough water.
10. Manage Stress
Other than staying hydrated, it’s crucial to manage stress, as to prevent eczema flare-ups and maintain overall good health. Find out how you can relieve stress in children, as well as yourself here.
Adding a selection of these tips to your daily routine can definitely help heal eczema. Many of these natural remedies can be used with everyday items lying around the house, but if you’re looking for skin care, clothing or resources to heal and prevent eczema, check out The Eczema Company for natural remedies for eczema.
Have any fun tips of your own? Share them with me in the comments below!
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Bio: Laura is a contributor and content developer for It’s An Itchy Little World. She is in no way a medical professional. Her comments, suggestions, and reflections are not intended to replace any medical advice. Always seek the help of a medical professional before undertaking any diet or lifestyle changes. Please see It’s An Itchy Little World’s disclaimer for information about affiliate links and more.
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