Skin problems can occur at any time of the year. It can affect you or your loved ones adversely. In fact, there are many different types of skin problems that there are.
Eczema or atopic dermatitis is the most common inflammatory skin disorder that affects infants and children [1].
In the United States, up to 20 percent of eczema cases involve babies while 3 percents are adults and children [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].
Even if this condition is manageable at most times, still, the symptoms can make you feel uncomfortable and affect your everyday life.
So, to make yourself feel better, we have come up with these fantastic home remedies for eczema.
You can try using these techniques as these will surely help you get rid of eczema as well as alleviate the unpleasant symptoms of it.
So, in this post, you’re going to read about:
- 21 Easy and hassle-free eczema natural remedies
- How to prepare and use them
- Diet plan to relieve eczema rash and other symptoms
- Some frequently questions and answers
RELATED: 14 Best Essential Oils For Eczema Cure
21 Natural Remedies for Eczema
1. Virgin Coconut Oil
Virgin coconut oil differs from usual coconut oil in an interesting way. What makes virgin coconut oil different from the usual coconut oil is that the former is derived from fresh mature kernels using natural methods and without the use of heat or chemicals [4].
Since its introduction, its wide array of beneficial properties has 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 who were suffering from moderate eczema. These patients were asked to apply virgin coconut or mineral oil to their skin [5].
The study went on for a few weeks. After two to eight weeks, about half of the patients who used virgin coconut oil showed excellent improvement from eczema. Those who did not use virgin coconut oil reported of moderate alleviation of the condition [5].
In fact, the numbers are quite contrasting. 50 percent of virgin coconut oil users compared to only 19 percent of mineral oil users showed excellent response to the treatment of eczema [5].
Therefore, these findings indicate that virgin coconut oil is more effective than mineral oil in treating moderate cases of atopic dermatitis [5].
Also, this is most probably due to the anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of virgin coconut oil as mentioned above [6, 7].
It is, also, an excellent emollient, keeping the skin from drying out to make it easier to destroy Staphylococcus aureus that causes eczema [8].
coconut oil is one of the safest home remedies for eczema on face.
You’ll need:
- 3 tablespoons of virgin coconut oil
- 1/4 cup of virgin coconut oil
Recommended Directions:
- Consume three tablespoons of coconut oil every day.
- Alternatively, apply one-fourth cup of coconut oil to your skin after bathing each day.
RELATED: Treat Eczema Naturally with Coconut Oil: 6 Simple Ways to Try Now
2. Yogurt
Many people know that yogurt is a healthy snack filled with beneficial probiotics.
Apart from this, 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 were divided into two groups: the first received a probiotic mixture while the other group received a placebo. A placebo is used as a control, it is like a medicine but has no therapeutic effects [10].
Findings revealed that probiotics significantly reduced the symptoms of eczema within three months of treatment [10].
Surprisingly, their conditions continued to improve a month after the treatment was over [10].
A group of Swedish scientists performed a clinical trial composed of 232 families with allergic diseases [11].
The pregnant mothers were asked to take probiotics until delivery, and their babies went on with the treatment until they reached 12 months [11].
After the study was finished, great results came out. Firstly, infants that received probiotic treatment were at less risk of eczema and other allergic conditions. The same thing also happened with the mothers. They, also, were at less risk of eczema and other allergic conditions [11].
Similar positive results were obtained by other researchers who investigated the efficacy of probiotics as treatment and prevention for eczema [12, 13, 14, 15].
What You’ll Need:
- 3 cups of yogurt
Recommended Directions:
- 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 are said to be useful in keeping the skin moisturized [16].
As an emollient, oatmeal helps ensure symptom relief from this skin disease [17].
Oatmeal has active compounds that possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, soothing and protective properties [18].
When dispersed in water, oatmeal forms a protective barrier for the skin to prevent external substances from worsening eczema [18].
Topical application of oatmeal doesn’t only help relieve eczema and its repulsive symptoms but 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.
.What You’ll Need:
- 5 cups of oatmeal
- 10 drops of lavender oil
- Bathwater
Recommended Directions:
- Add oatmeal to your bath water.
- Add 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 have been found to be highly efficient.
A study published in The Lancet Journal reported that oral intake of evening primrose oil reduced eczema in 99 patients without any side effects [19].
Researchers from Bern, Switzerland explain that the evening primrose oil contains high amounts of gamma-linolenic acid. A deficiency of this acid is linked with atopic dermatitis [20].
On the other hand, in another clinical trial, patients diagnosed with atopic dermatitis were allocated to two groups [21].
The first group was asked to take evening primrose oil in the form of clear capsules while the second group was instructed to consume similar looking capsule that was, in fact, a placebo [21].
After three months of treatment, a tremendous improvement was seen in 96 percent of the patients, while only 32 percent of the patients in the placebo group reported of having minor symptoms [21].
Those who used evening primrose oil found relief from skin dryness, itching, and pain [21].
Several other studies confirm the efficacy of this oil as a treatment and preventive measure for eczema [22, 23].
It is deemed a safe and cost-effective way of managing this inflammatory skin condition.
What You’ll Need:
- 5 drops of evening primrose oil
- 1 tablespoon of almond oil
Recommended Directions:
- Pour evening primrose oil into the 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.
RELATED: Evening Primrose Oil For Acne: Can Solve Your Problems?
5. Turmeric
Turmeric is an ingredient used in India for more than 2,500 years. Initially, used as a dye and then as a medicine. It is one of the most integral items of Ayurveda [24].
With its wide range of therapeutic purposes, it’s no surprise it’s considered as one of many of “nature’s most powerful healers” [24].
Its active ingredient curcumin is known as a potent anti-inflammatory agent.
Turmeric has long been established as a potent anti-inflammatory agent, which is why, it’s a reliable remedy for eczema [24, 25, 26].
Findings from a study conducted in Nepalgunj Medical College in Nepal indicate that daily use of turmeric pastes significantly reduced eczema symptoms such as itchiness, irritation, and inflammation of the skin [27].
This conclusion was reached after patients with eczema were given 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].
What You’ll Need:
- 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric
- 1 teaspoon of milk
Recommended Directions:
- Combine turmeric and milk.
- Apply the mixture to itchy and inflamed parts of the skin.
- Use this remedy twice a day until condition improves.
6. Thyme
Scientists from South Bank University in London, United Kingdom, assessed the effectiveness and safety of aromatherapy massage in the management of atopic dermatitis in children [28].
The clinical trial involved eight children with eczema who received aromatherapy massage as additional therapy to standard medical treatment [28].
Results show that the eight-week treatment using thyme oil along with other essential oils significantly reduced the symptoms and improved the condition [28].
It was noted that massage alone did not alleviate the condition of the children so this suggests that the essential oils are responsible for the therapeutic effects [28].
One of the many possible explanations is that thyme oil has superoxide scavenging activities that can help in the alleviation of inflammatory skin diseases like eczema [29].
What You’ll Need:
- 1 teaspoon of almond oil
- 8 drops of thyme oil
Recommended Directions:
- Blend thyme and almond oils.
- Spread a thin layer of mixture on the skin.
- Do this three times a week until symptoms subside.
7. Aloe Vera
There’s sufficient evidence that aloe vera works as an anti-inflammatory and wound-healing agent [30].
When applied topically, aloe vera exerts wound-healing properties that reduce the size of the lesion and help treat it more quickly.
For those suffering from eczema, the gel extracted from the aloe vera leaf can help in the improvement of this condition.
Applied externally on the inflamed eczematous skin, aloe vera gel softens and moisturizes the skin, enabling it to heal more rapidly [31].
There have been reports that aloe vera gel can alleviate eczema symptoms such as scaling and skin dryness, prevent secondary bacterial infections, and improve the overall quality of the skin [31].
Its phytochemicals are well-known for their antimicrobial activities [32].
Because there are no reports of adverse reactions after using aloe vera gel and other aloe-vera based products, it can be assumed that this is a safe and effective remedy for various skin conditions.
What You’ll Need:
- 5 drops of vitamin E oil
- 1 aloe vera leaf
Recommended Directions:
- Cut aloe vera leaf into two.
- Extract gel.
- Add vitamin E.
- Gently dab mixture on the affected skin.
- Wait for 30 minutes before rinsing with warm water.
- Do this twice a day for three weeks.
Read: 5 Effective Ways to Use Aloe Vera for Acne Treatment
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—leaves, flowers, fruits, bark, roots and seeds [33].
According to several studies, neem leaves are an effective anti-inflammatory, which makes them ideal for treating atopic dermatitis [34, 35].
By toning down the body’s inflammatory response, it does minimize not only swelling but also the pain and discomfort that are typically experienced in inflammatory diseases such as this one.
Neem oil, meanwhile, works by keeping the skin moisturized, protecting the skin from toxins that can aggravate the condition, and cleanse the skin to get rid of infective agents [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.
What You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon of turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon of neem leaves, crushed
- 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
- 2 drops of neem oil
Recommended Directions:
- Put all ingredients in a bowl.
- 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 and natural healers have used sandalwood to relieve common cold, bronchitis, heart problems, urinary tract infections, fever, and gallbladder disease, among others [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 that can relieve eczema and other inflammatory skin conditions [37].
The cooling effects of sandalwood can help relieve pain and itchiness, and make you feel better.
Not only that, but it also has potent anti-inflammatory properties that further help in resolving this skin issue [38, 39].
What You’ll Need:
- 1 teaspoon of sandalwood powder
- 1 tablespoon of rose water
Recommended Directions:
- Mix the two ingredients.
- 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 been used to manage many types of ailments.
It is typically used as a mild laxative as well as bactericidal and anti-inflammatory agent [40].
In 1985, researchers conducted a comparative analysis of chamomile and steroidal and nonsteroidal creams as the treatment for eczema [40].
Clinical data show that it was just as effective as the steroidal cream and more potent than the nonsteroidal formulation [40].
This is because chamomile boosts skin regeneration and combats free radicals that damage the skin, in addition to keeping it moisturized [40].
What You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon of dried chamomile flowers
- 1 cup of hot water
Recommended Directions:
- Put chamomile flowers in a cup of water.
- Let it steep for 20 minutes.
- Strain the flowers.
- Let it cool.
- Dip a cloth into the mixture.
- Gently press cloth on the skin.
- Repeat procedure three times a day until the inflammation subsides.
Read: 11+ Health Benefits of Chamomile Tea (Backed by Science)
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?
Usually used for treating skin disorders, witch hazel, possesses significant astringent and antiseptic properties [41].
It has also been found to have the ability to tone down inflammation with its anti-elastase and anti-collagenase activities [41].
A 2003 study conducted by researchers from the UK stated that its anti-inflammatory effects might be due to the presence of gallic acid and catechins [42].
What You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon of witch hazel herb
- 1 cup of water
Recommended Directions:
- Boil water in a pot.
- Add 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.
Read: 11 Health Benefits of Witch Hazel That You Should Know About
12. Honey
There are many ways honey can help cure your eczema.
First, it is an antimicrobial that can prevent bacteria from causing infection on your skin [43].
A 2007 study shows that honey can successfully 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 as 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.
What You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon of honey
- 2 drops of rose oil
- 1 cup of cool water
Recommended Directions:
- Combine honey, rose oil and water.
- Use this to wash inflamed skin.
- Pat, it dries thoroughly.
- Use this procedure two to three times a day for one week.
Read: Honey for Sore Throat: Good or Bad?
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.
The antihistaminic and sulfurous nature of Himalayan salt make it a potent treatment for skin rashes, allergic reactions, eczema, psoriasis, etc.
You can indulge in 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 and give you relief from eczema flare-ups.
A regular Himalayan salt bath can rejuvenate your body and mind, providing you a healthy and supple skin.
What You’ll Need:
- ½ cup of Himalayan salt
- ½ cup of Epsom salt
- ¼ cup of baking soda
- ½ cup of ACV
- 10-15 drops of lavender or chamomile essential oil
Recommended Directions:
- In a separate jar of boiling water dissolve the salts and baking soda.
- Now fill the tub with mildly warm water.
- Add ACV and the salt solution to the water.
- Finally, add the essential oil to the bath.
- Now dip in for 15-20 minutes.
- Repeat the process every night before you go to bed.
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14. Goldenseal
Goldenseal or oregano root is a great home remedy for all sorts of digestive disorders, eczema, menstrual cramps, acid reflux, and allergic rashes.
Its chemical component berberine is anti-inflammatory and can effectively bring down the symptoms of eczema flare-ups, rashes, and itch. (47)
What You’ll need:
- Goldenseal dried root powder 1 tbsp.
- Boiling hot water 500 ml.
- Cotton swab
Recommended Directions:
- Boil goldenseal powder 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 Mediterranean region and in Northern Africa.
This gentle and calming aromatic oil has a host of therapeutic properties.
Traditionally people use lavender oil for relieving skin disorders, aches, pains, fatigue, anxiety, stress, and hyperactivity. (48)
It’s needless to say that eczema flare-ups come with intense itching, anxiety, depressions, and sleepless nights.
Thus, lavender essential oil with its floral notes can be a very efficient in relieving eczema symptoms.
The potent anti-inflammatory properties of the oil can speed up the healing of eczema. (48)
What You’ll need:
- 10 drops of lavender oil
- 1 tablespoon of coconut or almond oil
Recommended Directions:
- Mix both the oils 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.
RELATED: 12+ Essential Oils For Better Sleep Everyday (I Like No#2 Most)
16. Licorice Root
Licorice or Glycyrrhiza glabra is a leafy green herbal plant. The licorice root is potent with therapeutic qualities.
The anti-inflammatory compound glycyrrhizin in licorice root can effectively fight eczema and other skin disorders. (49)
A 2003 research on the effects on licorice extracts on dermatitis showed positive results.
More than 100 topical dermatitis victims experienced relief from their itchiness, swellings, and redness in just two weeks of the licorice treatment. (49)
What You’ll need:
- 4 drops of Liquorice extracts
- 1 tablespoon of Coconut oil
Recommended Directions:
- Add the herbal extracts to the oil
- Now apply and massage the solution to your affected skin thoroughly.
- Repeat the process multiple 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 easily plant them in your garden.
Horsetail is an amazing solution to all kinds of skin disorders because of its therapeutic values. The medicinal herb is rich in anti-inflammatory properties to ease the pain, itch, and discomforts of eczema. [50]
A high level of silicon in horsetail is perhaps its most important chemical compound. Silicon is a valuable agent that takes part in collagen formation. Collagen is very important for the connective tissues, tone, texture, and elasticity of your skin. [50]
Hence, horsetail can help regenerate eczema affected skin and cure eczema 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.
What You’ll Need:
- ½ a cup of dried horsetail
- 2 cups of water
- Towel
Recommended Directions:
- Boil the dried horsetail herbs in 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. When it comes to treating skin disorder, 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. Dyshidrotic Eczema is associated with painful blisters developing on your palms, and soles of the feet. [52]
You can topically apply ACV or bathe in a vinegar solution to treat eczema on hands caused by dyshidrosis.
What You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoon of water
- Cotton ball
Recommended Directions:
- 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.
- Alternatively, 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.
RELATED: How Effective is Apple Cider Vinegar for Ringworm Treatment?
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 at Norwegian University of Science and Technology confirms that eating fish regularly can prevent the risk of eczema significantly.
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.
Some of these anti-eczema foods include; fish egg, cod liver oil, salmon, mackerel, soybean, green leafy vegetables, walnuts, flaxseed oil, hemp seeds, etc.
These foods are natural antihistamines. They can enhance your immune defense, fight inflammations, and 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. Several pieces of research have proved that probiotics reduce the symptoms of eczema among infants.
Moreover, breastfeeding mothers can prevent the risk of eczema among their children by in taking probiotics themselves. (51)(52)
Probiotics also help your gut and immune health which are related to 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 totally. In case you are not allergic to any food items, remember this, food allergies can develop over time as you grow older. [53]
Hence, you should reduce consuming certain foods that naturally trigger histamine attacks. Some of the allergic foods are dairy products, nuts, soy, eggs, foods with artificial colors and 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.
Some Q&A About Eczema
Q. Is there any possible complication associated with eczema?
A. Yes, there might be and it will depend on you. If you scratch and rub the rash or itchy areas then it can harm the skin. The skin may break and the area may become infected. In fact, for many people, permanent scars can form due to prolonged scratching. So, you must be aware of this
Q: What is the attitude of people suffering from eczema?
A. Usually, children suffering from eczema will outgrow it by the time they are teenagers. Some people may have it still. Thus, for the adults who are suffering from eczema, they can greatly improve their condition by taking good care of their skin and receiving proper treatment.
Q: Can eczema be prevented?
A. Yes, you can take some measures to make sure that eczema does not bother you. They are:
- Take good skin care.
- Follow doctor’s recommendation to keep skin healthy.
- Wear gloves when working outdoors as other artifacts may affect your skin.
- Always use mild soap for a bath or shower and pat your skin dry. Do not rub your skin with a towel.
- Drink plenty of water every day.
- Avoid stuffy and humid conditions.
Conclusion
Eczema can affect your daily life in ways you cannot imagine.
So, to make sure nothing bad happens, we suggest you use these simple but highly effective home remedies for eczema.
We really hope this article came to your help; if you have any questions or confusions regarding it feel free to ask us.
Also, don’t forget to share your experience with us by leaving your comments below.
READ MORE: 10 Proven Home Remedies for Psoriasis
Appreciate the recommendation. Will try it out.