Sweet Oil as an Itch Remedy

Sweet oil is common name for edible liquid fats that have been derived from plants. Sold in pharmacies across the United States and used as a standard home remedy for ear infections, sweet oil is generally made from olive oil. Light, odorless and affordable, sweet oil has many applications outside of the kitchen. Its moisturizing properties make it an excellent base oil for massages, while direct application to the skin softens dry, damaged areas -- providing temporary relief from itching, redness, and rash.

Benefits

• Sweet oil contains a variety of compounds that are beneficial to the skin and can help reduce the urge to itch. When applied topically, the oil helps soften the skin, while the compounds it contains, such as vitamin E and lineoleic acid, help encourage the development of new skin cells and alleviate skin inflammation and itchiness. Additionally, sweet oil is high in antioxidants, which help neutralize free radicals throughout the body, reducing the risk of internal cell damage. For the greatest benefit, choose oil that is cold-pressed and extra virgin, if possible.

Treatment

• Rub sweet oil or extra virgin olive oil directly on an affected area. Massage gently with your fingertips, using a small, circular motion until the excess oil has been absorbed. Cover the area with a cloth that has been dipped in hot water. The application of heat to the area opens the blood vessels, increasing the flow of blood to the affected region. The combination of steamy warmth and moisturizing oil soothes any immediate itch and relieves any subsequent inflammation and irritation. Reheat the cloth as many times as you'd like by simply running it under hot water and wringing out the excess before application.

Prevention

• Skin that has been recently washed is particularly vulnerable to dryness and itching. Bathing removes surface debris and is an important part of maintaining good standards of personal hygiene. But the soap residue, hot water and harsh scrubbing also work together to strip your skin of its natural protective oils. Apply sweet oil immediately after taking a bath or shower to help heal damaged skin while preventing further itchy outbreaks.