Alternative Eczema Treatments

Eczema is a term used to describe a number of conditions which cause inflammation of the skin. While it can appear in various forms, eczema is typically characterized by red, dry patches of skin that itch, flake and often hurt. If you're looking for alternatives to traditional eczema treatments, you may want to consider a few of the options that can offer natural relief.

Treat Eczema Through Diet

• Complications of eczema can be indicative of poor nutrition, a build-up of toxicity in the body, or sensitivities due to genetic makeup. The good news is that while you cannot control your genes you can control what you eat. Changing your diet can have a significant impact in treating eczema. Recommended foods include brown rice, millet, fresh fruits, vegetables and salmon. It is also recommended to take fiber supplements daily, such as ground flax seed or psyllium husks, to keep the colon clean. These can easily be added to a natural fruit smoothie to make them more palatable.

  A person with eczema should avoid all foods containing gluten for at least one month to determine if a gluten allergy is contributing to your rashes. Gluten is often a major factor in eczema and other skin disorders. All dairy products should also be eliminated. Finally consider whether other food allergies may be involved. Common allergens (in addition to gluten and dairy) are eggs, fish, soy, seafood and nuts. While eliminating such common foods as gluten and dairy can be a daunting task, they are often a first step in the line of defense in treating eczema. Phyllis Balch, C.N.C. and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," says, "Sensitivity to gluten is widespread, although it is often unrecognized. Research has shown that people suffering from virtually all skin disorders do better if they eliminate foods containing gluten and all dairy products from the diet."

Natural Supplements

• Supplements are an important addition to dietary changes in treating eczema, and can improve overall skin health. Consider the following supplements as part of your treatment plan: Vitamin B complex, biotin, natural iodine or iodine-rich supplements, essential fatty acids in the form of fish oil, flaxseed oil or evening primrose oil and zinc gluconate lozenges. Alternate the use of dandelion root, goldenseal, red clover and pau d'arco supplements. Remember not to take goldenseal internally for more than one week at a time.

Other Considerations

• There are other factors to consider when treating eczema which offer you both immediate relief of painful symptoms, as well as fewer incidents of flare-ups. You should avoid wearing denim or other harsh fabrics against your skin during a flare-up. Avoid becoming hot and sweaty whenever possible, as it can aggravate eczema and cause inflammation. Use a medicated skin powder, such as Gold Bond Medicated Powder, when necessary to soothe, cool and dry the skin before and after physical activity. Use Vitamin E oil or evening primrose oil topically on patches of eczema to promote healing and soothe the skin. Use unscented laundry detergent, fabric softener, shampoo/conditioner and soap. Also, avoid taking bubble baths. Finally, if your condition worsens or does not improve, consult your physician.