What is Eczema?
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by symptoms such as itching, redness, dryness, and skin flaking. The symptoms have a tendency to wax and wane, however it can flare up due to triggers such as dryness, irritants, allergens, infections, and hormonal changes. While it can technically affect individuals of all ages, it is much more common in infants and young children. Given its chronic and recurrent nature, Eczema can impair one’s quality of life. Therefore, optimal care must be taken in order to improve symptoms and to help keep the condition in remission. In this article, I share several natural remedies for Eczema to help manage it.
Symptoms of Eczema
- Itching which can be persistent
- Dry, scaly skin
- Red or inflamed patches
- Cracked skin
- Thickened skin
- Clear fluid-filled blisters (in acute cases)
- Darkened skin in chronic cases
- Raw, sensitive skin due to scratching
Causes of Eczema
Eczema develops due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors that affect the skin’s barrier, such as:
- Immune system dysfunction
- Genetic mutations in the filaggrin gene (affects skin barrier)
- Environmental allergens
- Irritants such as soaps, detergents, and fragrances
- Stress and emotional triggers
- Microbial imbalances on the skin
- Vitamin D deficiency and lack of omega 3s – although these are not considered as direct causes, clinical data suggests that the deficiency of these nutrients may play a role in the development of the condition.
Risk Factors
- Family history of eczema or allergic conditions
- Living in cold and dry climates
- Early childhood exposure to allergens
- Weakened immune function
- Vitamin D deficiency
- Lack of Omega 3’s in diet
Mechanisms Behind the Condition
Eczema typically results from a compromised skin barrier that allows allergens and irritants to penetrate the skin easily. This triggers an immune response, leading to an inflammation response which results in itching. Dryness of the skin, as a result of a dysfunction in the skin’s ability to retain moisture further worsens symptoms. Additionally, altered microbiota on the skin (especially Staphylococcus aureus) can increase inflammation and potentially delay healing of the skin.
Diagnosis
Eczema is typically diagnosed through:
- Clinical examination of the skin
- Medical history including familial predisposition
- Patch testing for allergens
- Skin biopsy (rarely done, but is sometimes done to rule out other conditions)
Natural Remedies for Eczema
Vitamin D
Low levels of Vitamin D are associated with various skin disorders, including autoimmune disorders, and other conditions associated with altered immune function. Additionally, low levels of Vitamin D are associated with increased eczema symptom severity. Vitamin D is known for its anti-inflammatory effects and supplementation may reduce inflammation while also potentially enhancing the skin barrier repair. In one clinical trial, it was found that Vitamin D supplementation improved eczema symptoms in children during winter (see study).
Talekt (Himalaya)
Talekt is a polyherbal Ayurvedic formulation that contains neem, turmeric, andrographis, and several other ingredients that have demonstrated immunomodulatory and antibacterial properties. In a clinical trial on patients with atopic dermatitis, Talekt supplementation resulted in improvements of dermal edema, pruritis, papules, urticaria and several other symptoms (see study)
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega 3’s are found in flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, and Fish oil. These fatty acids reduce skin inflammation and are also found to improve moisture retention. Firstly, it is important to note that Omega 3 supplementation combined with GLA and Vitamin D has been found to help improve the symptoms of Eczema (see study). Additionally, Omega 3s have also been found to reduce the risk of developing eczema in the first place (see study).
Probiotics
Probiotics are needed for maintaining various aspects of health and supplementation with certain strains of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains have shown benefits for reducing eczema flare-ups (see study 1, 2, 3)
Tips to Manage Eczema Naturally
- Moisturize frequently
- Avoid irritants. Use natural, non-scented soaps, detergents, and skin products.
- Control stress: Practice yoga, meditation, or deep breathing to reduce flare-up-inducing stress.
- Wear breathable fabrics such as cotton
- Avoid dietary triggers such as, gluten, processed foods, and sugar. It is preferably to use anti-inflammatory foods like turmeric, green leafy vegetables, berries, salmon, walnuts, etc.
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(Always use medicinal herbs under the supervision of a doctor)
by Dr. Nishal R.
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