What are natural remedies for eczema?
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Natural Remedies for Eczema
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by itching, redness, and scaling. While conventional treatments like corticosteroids and immunomodulating agents are commonly used, many patients seek natural remedies to manage their symptoms. This article explores various natural remedies for eczema, including traditional Chinese medicine, herbal oils, and other plant-based treatments.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for Eczema
Efficacy of Chinese Herbal Mixtures
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been used for centuries to treat eczema. Several studies have shown that Chinese herbal mixtures can be effective in managing eczema symptoms. For instance, the herbal formula Zemaphyte has been found to reduce erythema, surface damage, and itching, while also improving sleep quality in patients . Another study highlighted the effectiveness of a comprehensive TCM therapy that includes ingestion, baths, and creams, which significantly improved skin lesions, itching, and sleep loss in patients with severe eczema.
Mechanisms of Action
The active compounds in TCM have shown potent inhibition of IgE, mast cell activation, and pro-inflammatory cytokines, suggesting their value in treating both IgE and non-IgE mediated eczema. Herbs like cortex moutan radix, radix paeoniae alba, and radix glycyrrhizae have demonstrated anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory, and sedative effects, making them effective in eczema therapy.
Safety and Side Effects
While TCM is generally considered safe, some studies have reported minor adverse effects. However, these effects were usually reversible upon discontinuation of the treatment. Further well-designed, larger-scale trials are needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of TCM for eczema .
Herbal Oils for Eczema
Evening Primrose Oil and Borage Oil
Evening primrose oil (EPO) and borage oil (BO) have been popular natural remedies for eczema due to their gamma-linolenic acid content. However, a comprehensive review of 27 studies concluded that neither EPO nor BO significantly improved eczema symptoms compared to placebos. The review also noted that these oils have mild, transient adverse effects, primarily gastrointestinal, and highlighted potential risks with long-term use.
Topical Herbal Medicines
Indian Pennywort, Walnut, and Turmeric
Topical formulations of Indian pennywort, walnut, and turmeric have shown promise in treating eczema. A study involving 360 patients found that microemulsion formulations of these herbs were effective in reducing erythema and edema, while gel formulations were more effective in relieving itching. Ointments showed higher efficacy in reducing scaling and lichenification. These findings suggest that these herbal formulations could be a promising source for eczema treatment.
Other Topical Herbal Extracts
Other topical herbal extracts, such as liquorice gel and Hypericum perforatum, have also shown positive effects in treating eczema. These extracts were found to be superior to placebos in reducing eczema symptoms, although the studies had some methodological flaws. Continued research in better-designed studies is warranted to confirm these findings.
Conclusion
Natural remedies for eczema, including traditional Chinese medicine, herbal oils, and topical herbal formulations, offer promising alternatives to conventional treatments. While TCM and certain topical herbal extracts have shown efficacy in clinical trials, the effectiveness of oral evening primrose oil and borage oil remains unproven. Further research is needed to validate these natural remedies and ensure their safety for long-term use.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
Traditional Chinese Medicine for Food Allergy and Eczema.
Oral evening primrose oil and borage oil for eczema.
Chinese herbal medicine for atopic eczema.
Chinese herbal medicine research in eczema treatment
The treatment of eczema with Chinese herbs: a systematic review of randomized clinical trials.
Chinese herbal medicine for atopic eczema: an overview of clinical evidence
Topical herbal medicines for atopic eczema: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials
A MECHANISTIC INSIGHT OF NATURAL PRODUCTS FOR ECZEMA TREATMENT (PART I)
Chinese herbal medicine for atopic eczema.
Formulation and clinical evaluation of topical dosage forms of Indian Penny Wort, walnut and turmeric in eczema.
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