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31.6 million people (10.1%) in the U.S. have some form of eczema. One in 10 individuals will develop eczema during their lifetime, with prevalence peaking in early childhood. Lets take a look at the causes and a handful of natural ways to treat it!
Lets review the most common causes:
Inflammation or an overactive immune system
Compromised skin barrier
Genetics
Everyday product use or environmental factors
Bad Gut Health
Stress
What Can You Do About It?
While there are many over the counter and prescription creams and steroids available not everyone is comfortable with using them nor does everyone have success with them. Here are a few topical things you can try to reduce the inflammation, dryness and itchiness!
Red light therapy can be an effective, natural treatment for eczema and psoriasis, reducing itchiness and inflammation, and helping speed the healing process of skin in general. In addition to the itchiness reduction and other health benefits demonstrated in recent studies, natural red light therapy is routinely found to be safe and natural and free of major side effects, a big improvement over prescription drugs and invasive procedures. Red light therapy devices have a wide price range but something like this one is middle of the road and a good place to start.
Bathing less! Yes I said it. Bathing to frequently can dry the skin out. Using soaps with harsh additives, (ie. dyes, scents and chemicals) can be detrimental to your dermis. Finding good natural soaps is a great place to start! These Earthley brand soaps are phenomenal and gentle on your skin.
Cold Pressed, Pure Organic Coconut Oil will help moisturize and combat inflammation. Throw in a couple of drops of antibacterial or anti inflammatory essential oils as well.
Pure Organic Aloe Gel (this is definitely best straight from a plant). Aloe Vera has anti-bacterial & anti- microbial properties, it also helps boost the immune response. If you don't have your own plant you might look into something like this. As always be aware of any additives in your ingredients.
Apple Cider Vinegar with the mother! Bragg's is my go to brand and can be found in most groceries stores. Apple cider vinegar can balance the skins acidity levels and fight bacteria.
Tea Tree Oil is anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory and a great addition for your coconut oil. I always recommend Revive brand essential oils. (That will have to be a whole separate post)
Calendula improves blood flow to help hydrate the skin and fight off infection. There are many Calendula products on the market or if you happen to be growing it you can make your own soaks and teas. I do carry my favorite mn in my product line it can be purchased here.
Avoid Heat. Heat will dry your skin out.
Avoid Tight clothing (friction will increase inflammation)
Avoid Dyes and Scented perfumes and lotions.
Avoid Allergy triggers (ie. pollen and animal dander)
The Most Important thing: Gut Health and Diet
I cannot preach the importance of Gut Health for overall health enough. It is no different when it comes to fighting off the inflammation and itchiness of eczema.
Avoid inflammatory foods, such as; dairy, wheat, eggs, soy, peanuts and SUGAR!!!!
Increase your intake of anti-inflammatory foods and herbs, such as; fish, leafy greens, beans, lentils, colorful fruits, vegetables, turmeric and cinnamon.
Add in some beneficial pro-biotics. Pro-biotics are found in fermented foods and help increase the good bacteria load in your gut, There are some really good supplements out there but research the strain of bacteria before just grabbing something that says pro-biotic on the bottle. These stand alone broad spectrum pro-biotics are my top recommendation for anyone who doesn't know what to look for in a pro-biotic supplement.
I've done the research for you:
I have spent the last several years researching the benefits of more natural relief of the most common illnesses and annoyances. I've done the hard part for you. If you haven't already tried every single one of these than you have given up and giving up is never the answer. If you have questions please feel free to leave them in comments or follow Be Well With Martha on Facebook and send your questions in a private message.
If you have tried any of these methods and they have worked for you please share your experience in the comments.
Until Next Time Be Well,
Martha
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