Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Characterized by red, itchy, and inflamed skin, eczema can significantly impact one’s quality of life. Some people prefer natural remedies over conventional treatments because they are milder and can help with managing symptoms. Let’s explore how herbal oils can help relieve and heal eczema.
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I want to share information about the top seven herbal oils that can naturally treat eczema. I believe in using high-quality DIY skincare products that include cannabis. If you love skincare or are new to natural remedies, my guide has reliable information and practical tips for using botanical treasures in your skincare routine.
When it comes to treating eczema naturally, it’s essential to understand why herbal oils stand out as a viable alternative. Herbal oils soothe the skin and enhance well-being without many of the drawbacks of synthetic medications. These oils not only alleviate immediate discomfort but also contribute to long-term skin health by reducing the inflammatory response.
Ready to discover which herbal oils can transform your battle against eczema? Explore the unique properties of each oil and discover how they work together to revive and enhance your skin’s health.
Benefits of Herbal Oils in Eczema Treatment
Herbal oils can effectively manage eczema symptoms by using their antimicrobial abilities, moisturising properties, and ability to reduce inflammation. These oils contain bioactive compounds that work to calm irritated skin, reduce redness and swelling, and promote skin healing.
For instance, the flavonoids in Calendula oil can significantly alleviate itching and redness associated with eczema flare-ups. Horsetail oil, rich in silica, reduces itchiness and promotes collagen production to repair skin damage.
One of the primary advantages of using herbal oils over conventional treatments is the reduced risk of side effects. Standard treatments for eczema often involve corticosteroids and immunosuppressants, but these can have long-term side effects such as thinning skin or systemic issues with extensive use.
In contrast, herbal oils offer a gentler alternative without compromising efficacy. Derived from natural sources, these products are ideal for sensitive skin, as they typically avoid harsh chemicals that may aggravate eczema symptoms.
Incorporating these natural options into your skincare regimen has long-term benefits beyond immediate symptom relief. Using herbal oils regularly can improve skin health by keeping it moisturised and helping to repair its protective barrier, which are important for preventing future skin problems.
Consistent application fosters resilient skin capable of better withstanding irritants and allergens known to aggravate eczema. This approach manages symptoms and supports long-term skin health using natural remedies.
Calendula (INCI: Calendula Officinalis Flower)
Calendula, also called Marigold, is well-known for its strong ability to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated skin. People with atopic eczema often endure relentless itching and discomfort, and Calendula’s naturally occurring compounds can provide much-needed relief.
Calendula flowers are rich in flavonoids, which are natural antioxidants that reduce inflammation and help with healing. By applying Calendula-infused oil directly to eczema-affected areas, you can effectively calm your skin while reducing redness and swelling.
Another valuable benefit of Calendula is its wound-healing capabilities. Eczema can lead to broken skin, making it vulnerable to infections. Calendula aids in the repair of damaged tissues by stimulating collagen production – a key protein involved in skin regeneration. Its wound-healing prowess allows for quicker recovery from eczema flare-ups, reducing downtime between episodes. Using Calendula oil in your skincare routine helps your body heal itself, leading to healthier skin.
Calendula is not only a powerful healer, but it also works as a great moisturiser because of its soothing flavonoids. Skin hydration is crucial for preventing dryness and further irritation. These compounds moisturise the skin and help maintain its integrity, which is often weakened in people with eczema.
Lady’s Mantle (INCI: Alchemilla Vulgaris Extract)
Lady’s Mantle is another of the exceptional home remedies for eczema. It helps to soothe irritated, itchy, and red skin caused by eczema breakouts thanks to its strong anti-inflammatory properties. Active compounds within Lady’s Mantle help reduce eczema inflammation, leading to immediate relief.
In addition to its anti-inflammatory effects, Lady’s Mantle serves as a gentle astringent. It can clean the affected areas without irritating or drying the skin, suitable for sensitive skin types. By gently tightening the skin and reducing oiliness, it helps create a good environment for healing and prevents the pores from getting clogged.
It does even more! Lady’s Mantle is rich in antioxidants, which play a crucial role in controlling eczema flare-ups. These antioxidants protect your skin cells from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals. Over time, this protective effect can lead to fewer breakouts and more resilient skin.
Lady’s Mantle has properties that can both treat and prevent eczema effectively in a natural way. You can learn more in this full blog post Lady’s Mantle Skin Benefits in DIY Cosmetic Skincare.
Ribwort (INCI: Plantago Lanceolata Extract)
Ribwort, a lesser-known herbal gem, holds an impressive range of benefits for those dealing with eczema. One of its great features is its anti-inflammatory glycosides, which effectively soothe and relieve pain in inflamed skin. This makes Ribwort an excellent choice when the discomfort seems nearly unbearable. Reducing inflammation provides immediate relief and helps minimise long-term skin damage from persistent scratching.
Another valuable feature of Ribwort is its content of emollient tannins and mucilage. These compounds work synergistically to reduce irritation by forming a soothing barrier on the skin’s surface. The mucilage keeps the skin moisturised and prevents it from becoming dry and irritated. Tannins, meanwhile, provide gentle cleansing action without stripping away natural oils essential for maintaining healthy skin.
There’s more! Ribwort contains antibacterial glycosides that help inhibit secondary infections – a common concern for those suffering from eczema. People with eczema have a weaker skin barrier, making them more likely to get bacterial infections. This can make their symptoms worse and take longer to heal. Ribwort has antibacterial properties that help prevent secondary infections and provide extra protection while the skin heals.
Horsetail (INCI: Equisetum Arvense Extract)
When it comes to supporting the structural integrity and appearance of your skin, Horsetail stands out due to its rich silica content. Silica is a vital component for collagen production, which provides strength and elasticity to the skin. Eczema can severely compromise skin integrity, resulting in chafed, scaly patches that are not only uncomfortable, but also susceptible to tearing and secondary infections. Horsetail can help fortify the skin’s natural barrier through enhanced collagen synthesis.
Horsetail has remarkable antimicrobial and antifungal properties, making it especially beneficial for people with eczema who are at risk of bacterial or fungal infections due to broken or compromised skin. Horsetail creates an inhospitable environment for harmful microorganisms, thereby accelerating wound healing and minimising the potential for secondary infections.
In addition to its collagen-boosting capabilities and potent antimicrobial effects, Horsetail is also recognized for its anti-inflammatory properties. The inflammation associated with eczema often results in persistent itching and scaling, making daily activities uncomfortable. Horsetail helps to mitigate these symptoms by reducing the inflammatory response in affected areas.
Echinacea (INCI: Echinacea Purpurea Extract)
When it comes to harnessing the natural power of herbs for treating eczema, Echinacea often tops the list due to its robust properties that significantly bolster skin health. Echinacea is primarily famed for enhancing skin barrier function. This flower’s extracts strengthen the outer layer of your skin, making it less permeable to irritants and allergens which typically lead to eczema breakouts.
Many eczema sufferers know that their inflamed and broken skin can become a breeding ground for bacterial infections, complicating healing and worsening symptoms. The antimicrobial elements in Echinacea target harmful bacteria on the skin, reducing the likelihood of secondary infections. As a result, this herb not only soothes, but also protects your sensitive skin from additional harm, contributing to quicker and more effective healing.
Echinacea also contains anti-inflammatory polysaccharides that work wonders in decreasing swelling and pain associated with eczema outbreaks. These compounds help minimise redness and itching by calming down overactive histamines in your skin’s cells, giving very fast relief.
Wild Pansy (INCI: Viola Tricolor Extract)
Wild Pansy, often overlooked in the world of herbal remedies, packs a powerful punch when it comes to treating eczema naturally. Known for its soothing and moisturising mucilage, Wild Pansy can help calm irritated skin and provide much-needed hydration.
Mucilage is a gel-like substance that forms a protective layer over the affected skin, reducing moisture loss and creating an optimal environment for healing. For those seeking relief from dry and flaky patches characteristic of eczema, Wild Pansy’s natural moisturising properties make it an ideal choice.
Another active component of Wild Pansy is Salicylic Acid, famed for its anti-inflammatory properties. This makes it especially useful for reducing pain and swelling associated with eczema breakouts. By decreasing inflammation, Salicylic Acid helps to alleviate the persistent itching and discomfort that sufferers know all too well.
The other benefit of Wild Pansy is its ability to exfoliate the skin. Not in a mechanical action like a scrub does, but the Salicylic Acid weakens the bonds of dead skin cells so that they shed more easily. Whilst you may think that this action may not look attractive, getting rid of the dead skin cells in a safe and gentle manner like this allows more beneficial ingredients to penetrate the skin.
In addition to its anti-inflammatory benefits, Wild Pansy has potent antibacterial and antifungal properties. These attributes are crucial in preventing secondary infections, which can complicate eczema treatment. The antibacterial agents in Wild Pansy help ward off harmful microorganisms that might invade broken skin areas while its antifungal properties combat yeast infections that are sometimes exacerbated by constant scratching.
Comfrey (INCI: Symphytum Officinale Leaf)
Comfrey herb has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for a variety of health issues, including eczema. You will find it is available as dried root and dried leaf. I recommend the dried leaves as the safer choice.
This herb contains Allantoin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. When applied topically, a comfrey infusion can help soothe the itching and irritation associated with eczema, while also promoting the healing of damaged skin.
The Allantoin promotes skin cell regeneration, which helps sensitive skin to become more resilient. This helps to counteract drying and cracking of the skin.
The carbohydrates in the herb provide protective, soothing and rejuvenating properties. The tannins and Rosmarinic Acid in the herb have anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate the pain and inflammation of eczema.
It is important not to use comfrey on broken skin, but it is safe to use on the skin around the wound. Your skin gets “used” to comfrey quite quickly, so it is best to use it for a couple of weeks and then change to one of the other herbs.
Cannabis (INCI: Cannabis Sativa Flower Extract)
The well respected National Eczema Association wrote a good article about the positive effects of Cannabis as an eczema treatment and points out the importance of selecting your weed to include the appropriate terpenes.
Another article from MyEczemaTeam discussed the use of medical marijuana for eczema treatment. It mentioned that CBD, a non-psychoactive compound found in Cannabis, has shown promise in reducing itch severity and sleep disturbances in patients with eczema. The article also noted that CBD products are available in various forms, including creams and ointments, which can be applied directly to the skin.
One of the standout features of Cannabis is its rich terpene content. Terpenes are aromatic compounds that interact with our endocannabinoid system – a network integral to maintaining skin homeostasis and overall well-being. Incorporating cannabis into your oil can effectively restore skin balance in a more natural way compared to other synthetic treatments. This synergy not only supports healing but also enhances your skin’s resilience against future breakouts.
Cannabis is also renowned for its potent anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic inflammatory conditions like redness, swelling, itching, and pain are common eczema symptoms. By applying a high-quality cannabis oil topically – such as one you might create using the POT by NOIDS Herbal Infuser – you can directly target these symptoms and experience noticeable relief. Studies have shown that cannabinoids inhibit inflammatory responses both effectively and safely, making them a viable long-term option for eczema sufferers.
How Do I use the Herbs?
The simplest way is as an infusion or decoction. An infusion is where you pour boiling distilled water over the loose herbs and leave it to stand for 5 minutes. Then you strain the water from the herbs to be used. It’s very easy if you use a cafetière (French Press) to do this.
A decoction is where the woodier parts of a plant are used, such as Horsetail. These need to be boiled in distilled water in a stainless steel saucepan for about 20 minutes with the lid kept tightly on the saucepan. The water is then strained off to be used.
In both cases, use 2g of the dried herb for each 1 litre of water. Remember that there is no preservative involved, and the water will be prone to fungal contamination. Keep the strained water in a sealed bottle in the fridge for no more than 2 days and after that, throw it away. Therefore, make these waters in small batches.
An easy way to use them is as wet wraps. You can use a clean handkerchief or tea towel for this. Soak the fabric in the herbal water, squeeze gently, and place over the affected area. This is a very quick and effective way to get some relief from eczema.
The more beneficial and longer lasting way is to infuse the herbs into oil for use directly on the skin as well as incorporated into gels, creams and lotions.
Which Is The Best Oil To Use?
According to the National Eczema Association, over 90% of individuals with eczema carry Staphylococcus bacteria on their skin or in their nasal passages without causing an infection. The connection between these bacteria and eczema remains uncertain. Researchers have not determined whether the Staph. bacteria trigger eczema, are a consequence of the condition, or exacerbate eczema symptoms.
As part of the research, individuals with eczema were checked for Staph bacteria on their skin. They were then told to use either virgin coconut oil or virgin olive oil twice a day on two unaffected areas for four weeks.
Among those who had Staph at the beginning of the study and used virgin coconut oil, only 5 still had Staph at the end of the trial. In contrast, among those who had Staph initially and received virgin olive oil treatments, 50 still had Staph. bacteria at the end of the trial. Not only that, but participants who used virgin coconut oil experienced decreased dryness and dryness-related symptoms such as cuts, redness, and skin thickening (from scratching) at the end of the study.
This is just one of the reasons I choose fractionated Coconut oil for my infusions. Fractionated just means it stays liquid and does not solidify when it gets cold. Just as importantly, Coconut oil is heat tolerant, so can be used in the POT by NOIDS for infusing.
Marula oil is a very lightweight oil that is heat stable and gives incredible moisturisation. You can read about Marula Oil Benefits for Skin and Hair.
Another oil to consider is Apricot Kernel oil, which is also heat-tolerant and is always recommended for people with very sensitive skin. The essential fatty acids are excellent for alleviating dry skin and many types of eczema. You can learn more about this wonderful oil in this full blog post Apricot Kernel Oil: Benefits for Skin and Hair.
This blog teaches you how to Make Cannabis Lotion at Home and you could change the Poppy Seed oil for Coconut oil or Apricot Kernel oil in exactly the same measurements if you want to.
Method Using The POT by NOIDS Herbal Infuser
Creating your own herbal oil infusion at home can be a game-changer for managing eczema naturally. If you choose to incorporate cannabis into your regimen, the decarboxylation process is essential to activate CBD or other cannabinoids that offer topical benefits. I trust the POT by NOIDS machine for this crucial step because it ensures precise decarboxylation, which maximizes the therapeutic properties of your herbs. Here is a thorough Review Of The POT by NOIDS Herbal Infuser.
- Start by placing your dried cannabis in the glass beaker attached to The POT by NOIDS and set it to the CBD decarb setting.
- Once the cycle is complete, you’re ready to blend in any of your additional herbs like Calendula, Lady’s Mantle, or Wild Pansy. None of these herbs need to be decarboxylated like cannabis does.
- Pour in the fractionated Coconut oil; it’s an ideal choice because of its excellent absorption rate and skin-nourishing properties. Give everything a good stir to make sure all the herbs are submerged.
- Next, you’ll set The POT by NOIDS to its CBD infuse setting. Leave it alone to do its job. This may take some time, but patience will ensure a potent and effective herbal oil blend.
- After completing the cycle, use the PBN strainer provided with the machine to strain out any solid herb pieces from the oil. As expected, some of your original 120g of Coconut oil will have been absorbed by the dry herbs; if you find yourself short on finished oil, top it up until you reach approximately 100g.
- Finally, transfer your infused herbal oil into a clean bottle and label it clearly with its ingredients and date of preparation. This careful documentation helps maintain consistency in usage and ensures you’re aware of each batch’s freshness.
By following this method, you can confidently integrate high-quality, natural herbal oils into your daily skincare routine – perhaps even discovering your perfect blend along the way!
Can I Add Essential Oils?
Oh yes, absolutely! However, I suggest you think about the finished blend first. Eczema can be very tricky to work with. You may have a blend of herbs and oil working well for weeks at a time, and then suddenly it stops working for you. That is the time to tweak your formulation to continue to get good results.
I recommend that you select just the 1 carrier oil that seems appropriate for you, and just one or two herbs that offer what you most need at the time. Make small batches so that none is wasted, and it is so easy to do.
When you make your next batch, you can change one of two of the herbs, and with the selection I have here, you have a lot of variations to choose from. The same goes with essential oils. Remember that you should always dilute essential oils in the carrier oil, and just a few drops of Lavender essential oil would be a good starting point.
However, consider Helichrysum oil, Tea Tree oil and Frankincense oil for later tweaks. Fragonia™ is another excellent choice and here is a full blog post all about it Discover the Power of Fragonia™.
Contraindications
While herbal oils are generally considered safe and effective for managing eczema, it’s essential to recognize that they may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals with specific allergies or sensitivities should exercise caution when using certain oils.
If you are already using prescription medications like steroids to manage your eczema, it is ESSENTIAL that you do NOT stop taking them and start using these oils instead. Stopping steroids suddenly is dangerous and can cause serious flare-ups with your eczema. Only consider reducing or stopping steroids in consultation with your dermatologist or doctor and introduce the herbal-infused oils slowly. You should discuss your treatment options with your doctor as they need to consider potential interactions with other treatments or medications.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women need to be particularly careful when using herbal products and should consult with their doctor first.
Conclusion
I believe it is really helpful to be able to make your own infused oils that can be varied to suit your changing needs. Calendula is excellent for its anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. Lady’s Mantle gently soothes sore, itchy skin with its antioxidant and astringent qualities. Ribwort works effectively to reduce irritation and inhibit secondary infections, thanks to its emollient tannins and antibacterial glycosides.
Horsetail supports collagen production while providing antimicrobial effects. Echinacea improves your skin’s barrier function and reduces bacterial infections. Wild Pansy combines soothing mucilage with anti-inflammatory salicylic acids to minimize pain and swelling, and Cannabis’ CBD content regulates sebum production, reducing dryness and inflammation.
Experiment safely with these various oils, combining them in ways that best suit your unique needs. Always remember that the efficacy of natural treatments can vary from person to person, so it’s essential to pay attention to your skin’s responses as you explore these herbs.
FAQ
What is eczema, and how can herbs help in treating it?
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a skin condition characterised by itchy and inflamed patches. Using these herbs for eczema can help alleviate symptoms and reduce eczema breakouts naturally.
What are some common symptoms of eczema that can be treated with natural remedies?
Common symptoms of eczema, such as itchiness and irritation, can be relieved with natural remedies for eczema. Even just the topical application of Coconut oil may help some people.
How do herbs and Coconut oil act as remedies for eczema?
Coconut oil, rich in antibacterial properties and fatty acids, can help calm down and ease itchy skin in people with eczema. As shown, several herbs are rich in tannins and flavonoids to help improve your skin’s condition.
Can herbs provide relief for severe cases of eczema?
For severe eczema cases, herbs with moisturizing and antibacterial properties can help manage symptoms and reduce irritations, providing some relief from severe eczema breakouts.
Can herbs be used as alternative treatments for eczema in addition to traditional medicine?
Herbs offer natural alternatives to complement traditional treatments for eczema, providing patients with eczema additional options for managing their condition. However, it is important to note that you should not stop using any prescribed medication for your eczema without your doctor’s help. It is always recommended to consult with your doctor first if you want to adapt your treatment for eczema.
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