Eczema

Eczema is a broad term that refers to dermatitis, or skin swelling, in response to several different causes.

Allergic, infectious, or immunologic etiologies have been implicated as the cause of eczematous lesions.

Eczema can be present in many different ways but the most common presentation is a dry, itchy (pruritic) rash found on the skin in different areas of the body.

The prevalence of eczema has been increasing in the past 60 years and is still on the rise.

The lifetime prevalence has been found to be highest in infancy and with female predominance during the reproductive years.

Most eczemas are allergic in origin and its continued increase in prevalence may have something to do with the increasing incidence of allergy-related diseases like hay fever and asthma.

This may also be affected by the increasing number of allergy-causing compounds in the environment.

Knowing this, avoiding the irritants or allergens is a natural cure for eczema.

Natural Cures for Eczema:

Lotions:

To get rid of eczema during the cold months, use a moisturizing lotion.

Lather a generous amount of lotion to your whole body especially the back and limbs which are easily dried by exposure to cold weather.

A moisturizing lotion is also the most common home remedy for dry skin.

Anti-Dandruff Shampoo:

This home remedy is indicated for seborrheic dermatitis, as well as dandruff.

Since the causative agent is a fungus, exposure to selenium containing compounds helps get rid of the eczema.

This is one of the most effective means on how to remove eczematous lesions.

Topical Creams and Anti-Histamine:

These home remedies are what we use for those who have atopic eczema.

Antihistamines will take care of the itching and prevent further progression while the topical steroid creams will help get rid of the swelling.

Make sure to use low potency steroids for just a limited amount of time (like a week) to avoid unwanted side-effects.

Mangosteen:

Mangosteen is a fruit found in East Asia and has many medicinal properties.

The mangosteen rind is a natural cure for eczema.

Dry and pulverize the rind to form a powder which you can make into a cream to apply on areas with eczema.

The active component here is called xanthone, which has both antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties.

Besides being one of the natural cures for eczema and other conditions, the fruit itself is a prized delicacy in the region.

Aloe Vera:

This is one of the many natural cures for eczema and one that needs less preparation.

Get a leaf of aloe vera and peel the skin off it.

Rub the juice on the affected area/s and leave for approximately 30 minutes.

Aloe vera extract is a very good moisturizer and also contains a lot of vitamins.