How to Get Rid of Eczema Fast: 22 Natural Home Remedies

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(Last Updated On: November 10, 2018)

Eczema or atopic dermatitis is an inflammatory skin disorder.

The word “atopic” means an allergy that is hereditary. Dermatitis means an inflammation of the skin. Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a condition that causes the skin to become itchy, red, and even dry [1].

Eczema can appear on any part of the body. It is a chronic problem that’s common in infants, which may or may not outgrow before adulthood [1].

People with eczema have a higher risk of having allergic conditions like asthma or hay fever [1].

So, to make yourself feel better, we have come up with these fantastic home remedies for eczema.

Symptoms of eczema include:

Itchy, dry skin.
Reddish to brownish patches on the hands, wrists, neck, upper chest, eyelids, feet, ankles. Infants may have these patches on the face, and scalp.
Thickened, cracked, scaly and swollen skin from scratching.

Causes of eczema

Eczema depends on a gene variation and runs in the families. But, certain genes can cause extra sensitive skin [2].

An overactive immune system and skin defects also play a role in causing eczema [1, 2].

The primary aspect of this skin disease is that it causes the skin to become dry, itchy and swollen. It usually occurs on the face, elbows, knees, hands, and feet [3].

Skin defect leads to eczema as it allows the moisture to go out through the skin that may allow germs to get in [1, 2, 3].

Other factors also contribute to eczema that includes:

Heat and sweat
Cold, dry climates
Stress
Contact with irritating substances like synthetic fabrics, soap, and wool

Types of eczema

There are seven different types of eczema:

Atopic dermatitis (most common)
Contact dermatitis
Dyshidrotic eczema
Hand eczema
Neurodermatitis
Nummular eczema
Stasis dermatitis

22 Natural Remedies for Eczema

1. Virgin Coconut Oil

Virgin coconut oil differs from usual coconut oil in an interesting way.

It originates from fresh mature kernels using natural methods. And, there is no use of heat or chemicals [4].

Its beneficial properties have captured the attention and interest of the general public.

Such beneficial properties include anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of virgin coconut oil [4].

A study conducted in 2014 contained 117 patients with moderate eczema. These patients had to apply virgin coconut or mineral oil to their skin [5].

The study went on for two to eight few weeks. About half of the virgin coconut oil users showed excellent improvement from eczema. Those who did not use virgin coconut oil reported of moderate alleviation of the condition [5].

Thus, these findings state that virgin coconut oil is more effective than mineral oil [5].

The reason can be the oil’s anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties [6, 7].

It is, also, an excellent emollient, keeping the skin from drying out. Thus, it becomes easier to destroy Staphylococcus aureus that causes eczema [8].

coconut oil is one of the safest home remedies for eczema on the face.

How to use coconut oil for eczema cure:

Consume three tablespoons of coconut oil every day. Also, you can apply one-fourth cup of coconut oil to your skin after bathing each day.

2. Yogurt

Many people know that yogurt is a healthy snack filled with beneficial probiotics.

Topical application of probiotics can also help relieve skin diseases like eczema [9].

A study by a group of researchers in Taiwan involved 220 children. These children were suffering from moderate to severe cases of eczema [10].

The participants came into two groups. The first received a probiotic mixture while the other group received a placebo. A placebo is a control, it is like a medicine but has no therapeutic effects [10].

The probiotics reduced the symptoms of eczema within three months of treatment [10].

Also, their conditions continued to improve a month after the treatment was over [10].

Scientists performed a clinical trial composed of 232 families with allergic diseases [11].

The pregnant mothers had to take probiotics until delivery. Their babies went on with the treatment until they reached 12 months [11].

The study came out with great results. Infants that received probiotic treatment were at less risk of eczema. The same thing also happened with the mothers. They, also, were at less risk of eczema and other allergic conditions [11].

Researchers tested the efficacy of probiotics as a cure and prevention of eczema. They got similar positive results [12, 13, 14, 15].

A simple way to use yogurt for eczema:

Eat three cups of yogurt a day. Add fresh fruits such as strawberry slices to improve taste.

3. Oatmeal

One of the many ways to cope with eczema is to keep the skin from drying out.

Bath products that contain oatmeal and oils may be useful in keeping the skin moisturized [16].

As an emollient, oatmeal helps ensure symptom relief from this skin disease [17].

Oatmeal has active antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, soothing and protective properties [18].

When dispersed in water, oatmeal forms a protective barrier for the skin. Thus, it prevents external substances from worsening eczema [18].

Topical application of oatmeal helps relieve eczema and its repulsive symptoms. It can also keep skin soft, supple and young looking. As you know, moisturized skin is less prone to premature aging signs such as wrinkles and fine lines.

Your child may suffer from baby eczema due to diaper rash and other reasons. A gentle oatmeal bath is most suitable to get rid of baby eczema.

Try this method of using oatmeal for eczema:

Add 5 cups of oatmeal to your bath water. Add 10 drops of lavender oil. Stir bath water with your hands. Soak in the bath for 30 minutes. Proceed to your usual bath. Pat your skin dry after. Do this remedy up to four times a week.

4. Evening Primrose Oil

Aren’t you surprised? You better be!

It is because you won’t usually find evening primrose oil in lists of home remedies.

But then again, for eczema, it is one of those that are quite efficient.

Oral intake of evening primrose oil can reduce eczema in 99 patients without any side effects [19].

Researchers explain that the evening primrose oil contains high amounts of gamma-linolenic acid. A deficiency of this acid has a link to atopic dermatitis [20].

In another clinical trial, patients with atopic dermatitis came in two groups [21].

The first group had to take evening primrose oil in the form of clear capsules. The second group consumed a similar looking capsule that was, in fact, a placebo [21].

After three months, there was a tremendous improvement in 96% of the patients. Only 32 percent of the patients in the placebo group reported having minor symptoms [21].

Those who used evening primrose oil found relief from skin dryness, itching, and pain [21].

Studies confirm the efficacy of this oil as a treatment and preventive measure for eczema [22, 23].

It can be a safe and cost-effective way of managing this inflammatory skin condition.

Learn how to use evening primrose oil for eczema:

Pour 5 drops of evening primrose oil into 1 tablespoon of almond oil. Put mixture in a glass jar. Shake to blend. Apply a thin layer of your skin. Do this treatment three times a week. Consume one teaspoon of the mixture once a day for five days.

5. Turmeric

Turmeric is an ingredient used in India for more than 2,500 years. It is one of the most integral items of Ayurveda [24].

It comes with wide range of therapeutic purposes. Thus, it’s no surprise it’s considered as one of many of “nature’s most powerful healers” [24].

Its active ingredient curcumin is a potent anti-inflammatory agent.

Turmeric is a potent anti-inflammatory agent, which is why, it’s a reliable remedy for eczema [24, 25, 26].

Daily use of turmeric pastes could reduce eczema symptoms [27].

Researchers came to this conclusion after patients with eczema took turmeric paste [27].

It only took 15 days for turmeric to work its magic. By that time, skin irritation in the face and chest of the patients disappeared [27].

Even with the daily use of turmeric, there were no reports of adverse effects [27].

Here’s how you may use turmeric for eczema:

Combine ½ tsp of turmeric and 1 tsp of milk. Apply the mixture to itchy and inflamed parts of the skin. Use this remedy twice a day until condition improves.

6. Thyme

Scientists tested the effectiveness and safety of aromatherapy for eczema in children [28].

The clinical trial involved eight children with eczema. They received aromatherapy massage as a therapy to standard medical treatment [28].

The treatment using thyme oil along with other essential oils eased the symptoms [28].

The massage alone did not soothe the condition of the children. It means, the essential oils are responsible for the therapeutic effects [28].

Thyme oil has superoxide scavenging activities. It can help in the alleviation of inflammatory skin diseases like eczema [29].

An easy way to use thyme oil for eczema relief:

Blend 8 drops of thyme and 1 tsp of almond oils. Spread a thin layer of mixture on the skin. Do this three times a week until symptoms subside.

7. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera works as an anti-inflammatory and wound-healing agent [30].

During topical application, aloe vera exerts wound-healing properties. These properties reduce the size of the lesion and help treat it.

The gel extracted from the aloe vera leaf can help in the improvement of eczema.

Applied on the eczematous skin, aloe vera gel softens and moisturizes the skin. Thus, the gel enables it to heal faster [31].

There have been reports that aloe vera gel can ease eczema symptoms. It can reduce scaling and skin dryness, prevent infections, and improve the quality of the skin [31].

Its phytochemicals are well-known for their antimicrobial activities [32].

There are no reports of side effects after using aloe vera gel and other aloe-vera based products. So, it can be a safe and effective remedy for various skin conditions.

How to use aloe vera for eczema:

Cut aloe vera leaf into two. Extract gel. Add 5 drops of vitamin E oil. Dab mixture on the affected skin. Wait for 30 minutes before rinsing with warm water. Do this twice a day for three weeks.

8. Neem

Neem is famous around the world for its vast range of pharmacological activities. Its fame has only grown as a medicinal herb in many parts of the world [33].

Scientists found over 140 useful active compounds for the treatment of eczema. These compounds are available in different parts of this plant [33].

According to several studies, neem leaves are an effective anti-inflammatory. It makes them ideal for treating atopic dermatitis [34, 35].

By toning down the body’s inflammatory response, it does reduce swelling. It also eases the pain and discomfort due to eczema.

Neem oil can keep the skin moisturized, protect the skin from toxins, and cleanse the skin [36].

It’s a good idea to use both neem leaf water extract and neem oil for the inflamed skin.

Both remedies are not only useful but also easy and straightforward to put together.

Learn how you can use neem for eczema:

Put 1 tablespoon of each of turmetic powder and crushed neem leaves in a bowl. Add 1 tsp of sesame oil and 2 drops of neem oil in it. Mix well. Apply the mixture to the skin. Wait for it to dry before washing it off with warm water. Do this remedy once a day until eczema is gone.

9. Sandalwood

For many years, herbalists have used sandalwood to treat many diseases. These include common cold, bronchitis, urinary tract infections, fever, and gallbladder disease, [37].

In traditional Chinese medicine and even up to now, sandalwood is a go-to solution for eczema [37].

It possesses emollient, soothing, and cooling properties. The components can relieve eczema and other inflammatory skin conditions [37].

The cooling effects of sandalwood can help relieve pain and itchiness. Thus, it makes you feel better.

It also has potent anti-inflammatory properties. These properties further help in resolving this skin issue [38, 39].

Here’s how you may use sandalwood for eczema:

Mix 1 tsp of sandalwood powder with 1 tablespoon of rose water. Apply the mixture to inflamed skin. Leave it on for 10 minutes. Wash it off with warm water. Follow remedy twice a day for one month.

10. Chamomile

This list won’t be complete without chamomile, which has long managed many types of ailments.

It is a mild laxative as well as bactericidal and anti-inflammatory agent [40].

Researchers conducted an analysis of chamomile as the treatment for eczema. It was a comparative analysis with steroidal and nonsteroidal creams [40].

Chamomile was as effective as the steroidal cream. Besides, it was more potent than the nonsteroidal formulation [40].

This is because chamomile boosts skin regeneration and combats free radicals. Besides, it keeps skin moisturized [40].

A simple way to use chamomile flowers for eczema relief:

Put 1 tablespoon of dried chamomile flowers in a cup of hot water. Let it steep for 20 minutes. Strain the flowers. Let it cool. Dip a cloth into the mixture. Press cloth on the skin. Repeat procedure three times a day until the inflammation subsides.

11. Witch Hazel

It may be difficult for some people to trust a remedy that sounds like a villain in a fairytale story.

Now, did you know that it can work wonders for various inflammatory diseases like eczema?

Witch hazel possesses significant astringent and antiseptic properties [41].

It can also ease inflammation with its anti-elastase and anti-collagenase activities [41].

Witch hazel has anti-inflammatory effects. It might be due to the presence of gallic acid and catechins [42].

How to use witch hazel for eczema:

Boil a cup of water in a pot. Add 1 tablespoon of witch hazel herb. Simmer for 20 minutes. Remove from heat. Strain the mixture. Apply the tea to affected areas of the skin. Rinse after 15 minutes. Repeat remedy twice a day for one week.

12. Honey

There are many ways honey can help cure your eczema.

It is an antimicrobial that can prevent bacteria from causing infection on your skin [43].

A 2007 study shows that honey can prevent bacteria from infecting wounds [43].

Second, it works as an anti-inflammatory to tone down swelling and bring you comfort [44].

Finally, it is also a humectant, which means that it draws moisture into the air. This feature is important for eczema patients. Because dry skin is more prone to irritation and infection [45].

The only problem with this remedy is that it’s quite sticky and difficult to apply. So it’s better to dilute it first with water or combine with other ingredients.

Here’s how you may use honey for eczema:

Combine 1 tablespoon of honey, 2 drops of rose oil in a cup of water. Use this to wash inflamed skin. Let it dry. Use this procedure two to three times a day for one week.

13. Himalayan Salt

The aesthetic Himalayan sea salt is more than what meets the eye. This pink colored salt has an extensive list of therapeutic benefits.

There are over 84 minerals along with calcium, potassium, iron, and magnesium. (46)

For centuries people have been using it for different home remedies.

Himalayan salt has antihistaminic and sulfurous properties. These make it a potent treatment for skin rashes, allergy, eczema, psoriasis, etc.

You can take a detoxifying bath with Himalayan salt to treat eczema itch and irritations.(46)

The magnesium and other essential minerals will soak and absorb through your skin. So, the salt will give you relief from eczema flare-ups.

A regular Himalayan salt bath can rejuvenate your body and mind. Thus it provides you a healthy and supple skin.

Try this himalayan salt bath for eczema:

In a separate jar of boiling water dissolve ½ cup of each of epsom salt, himalayan salt and ¼ cup of baking soda. Now fill the tub with mild warm water. Add ½ cup of ACV and the salt solution to the water. Finally, add 10 drops of chamomile or lavender essential oil to the bath. Now dip in for 15-20 minutes. Repeat the process every night before you go to bed.

14. Goldenseal

Goldenseal or oregano root is a great home remedy for many ailments. It can treat digestive disorders, eczema, menstrual cramps, acid reflux, and allergic rashes.

Its chemical component berberine is anti-inflammatory. It can bring down the symptoms of eczema flare-ups, rashes, and itch. (47)

How to use goldenseal for eczema:

Boil 1 tablespoon of goldenseal powder in 500 ml of water for 10 minutes. Remove the goldenseal tincture from the heat and let it cool down. Soak a cotton swab with the tincture and apply it onto the rashes. Keep it on the affected skin for 20 minutes. Repeat the process twice daily.

15. Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender oil originates from the flowers tops of evergreen plant lavender. The homeland of this high-quality essential oil is the Mediterranean region and Northern Africa.

This gentle and calming aromatic oil has a host of therapeutic properties.

People use lavender oil for relieving skin disorders, fatigue, anxiety, stress, and hyperactivity. (48)

Eczema flare-ups come with intense itching, anxiety, depressions, and sleepless nights.

Thus, lavender oil with its floral notes can relieve eczema symptoms.

The potent anti-inflammatory properties of the oil can speed up the healing of eczema. (48)

Learn how you can use lavender oil for eczema:

Mix 10 drops of lavender oil with 1 tablespoon of coconut or almond oil and make a solution. Apply the oil solution to the affected skin. Repeat the process twice daily for a week until the skin turns healthy.

16. Licorice Root

Licorice or Glycyrrhiza glabra is a leafy green herbal plant. The licorice root is potent with therapeutic qualities.

Licorice root has anti-inflammatory compound glycyrrhizin. It can fight eczema and other skin disorders. (49)

A research on the effects on licorice extracts on dermatitis showed positive results.

More than 100 patients experienced relief from eczema symptoms using the licorice treatment. (49)

Try this licorice recipe for eczema:

Add 4 drops of licorice extracts and 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. Now apply and massage the solution to your affected skin. Repeat the process several times for a week to see good results.

17. Horsetail

Horsetail or Equisetum hyemale is an evergreen fern or herb. This ancient medicinal herb existed 400 million years ago during the Paleozoic era. This non-flowering plant grows from the rhizomes and you can plant them in your garden.

The medicinal herb is rich in anti-inflammatory properties. These components can ease the pain, itch, and discomforts of eczema. [50]

A high level of silicon in horsetail is its most important chemical compound. Silicon is a valuable agent that takes part in collagen formation. Collagen is vital for the connective tissues, tone, and elasticity of your skin. [50]

Hence, horsetail can help regenerate eczema affected skin and cure scars as well. The most effective way to use horsetail as a home remedy for eczema is to apply a compress. Here’ how you should do this.

Here’s how you may use horsetail for eczema:

Boil ½ cup of dried horsetail herbs in 2 cups of water for 15 minutes. Strain the horsetail extracts and let it cool down for some time. Now soak a fresh towel in the solution. Wring the towel and apply it to your eczema-affected skin. Leave the towel on the skin for 10 minutes. Repeat the treatment thrice daily.

18. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar or ACV is a popular choice for all sorts of home remedies. It consists of alcohol and acetic acid. Apple cider vinegar is especially beneficial to get rid of dyshidrotic eczema. [51]

Dyshidrosis or dyshidrotic Eczema is one of the lesser known types of this skin problem. 1 out of 20 people is prone to suffer this extreme form of eczema. It may cause painful blisters on your palms, and soles of the feet. [52]

You can apply ACV on your skin or bathe in a vinegar solution to treat eczema on hands caused by dyshidrosis.

Learn how to use apple cider vinegar for eczema relief:

Dilute ACV with water. Soak a cotton ball in the solution. Apply the ACV soaked cotton ball on the eczema blisters. Let the compress be on the sores for 15 minutes. Or, soak your feet or hands on ACV solution (2 cups of ACV in 2 Cups of water) for the same duration. Repeat the treatment twice daily.

Diet Plan to Get Rid of Eczema Symptoms

19. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Fishes such as salmon are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. A research confirms that eating fish can prevent the risk of eczema.

It is advisable that you introduce fish to your children’s diet by the time they turn 9. (53)

There are many other foods rich in Omega-3s fatty acids. You should add these to your daily diet.

Fish egg, cod liver oil, salmon, leafy vegetables, flaxseed oil are anti-eczema foods.

These foods are natural antihistamines. They can enhance your immune defense, and fight inflammations. They can also speed up the healing of eczema flare-ups. (16)

20. Probiotics

Probiotics such as yogurt, kefir, and amasai are excellent to reduce eczema symptoms.

These foods can help you prevent the risk of future flare-ups. Researches have proved that probiotics reduce the symptoms of eczema among infants.

Moreover, breastfeeding mothers should take probiotics themselves. It can prevent the risk of eczema among their children. (51)(52)

Probiotics also help your gut and immune health. These are responsible for eczema flare-ups.

21. Avoid Food Allergies

Food allergies are one of the primary causes of developing eczema. You should be aware of the foods that don’t suit your system and try to avoid them. Food allergies can develop over time as you grow older. [53]

Hence, you should reduce consuming certain foods that trigger histamine attacks. Some of the allergic foods are dairy products, nuts, soy, eggs, foods with additives MSG, etc.

Avoid these food items when you are experiencing an eczema flare-up. You’ll definitely experience a reduction of itchiness and irritations.

22. Light Therapy/Phototherapy

Doctors suggest phototherapy when pharmacological and topical measures have failed [54].

A study established the efficacy of phototherapy in patients with eczema [54].

It proved that phototherapy is generally considered to be safe and well tolerated. It’s an optimal second-line treatment for eczema [54].

Phototherapy helps to reduce itching and inflammation. It also helps fight bacteria on the skin. 10-15 minutes of sun exposure helps to provide relief and speed the healing of the skin [55].

When to See a Doctor

These home remedies will help you get rid of eczema. But, if you find the situation becomes worse and the remedies aren’t working, you should consult a doctor.

You must visit a doctor if you see the following symptoms: