Holistic Treatments for Chronic Eczema

Because eczema can have so many complex causes and interrelated symptoms, doctors often prescribe very powerful drugs including immunosuppressants and oral corisosteroids to treat the disease. For some patients, holistic treatments might be both safer and more effective.

Eliminating Irritants

Contact dermatitis, a local allergic reaction, is a common cause of eczema. It can be addressed holistically by eliminating irritating soaps, laundry detergents, and house-cleaning agents from the patient's environment.

Addressing Food Allergies

Some people with eczema can have undiagnosed food allergies. Eliminating common, mild allergens like cow's milk, soy, or egg may solve the problem without any need for medication.

Oatmeal

Oatmeal can be an effective, holistic anti-inflammatory medicine when applied to an eczema rash. Natural lotions sometimes contain oat extracts, or colloidal oatmeal can be suspended in a warm bath.

Sea Water

Sea water --- whether in the form of sea salt mixed into a bath or a dip in the ocean --- can do wonders for treating eczema because salt is mildly antiseptic. Some companies make products for eczema using salt from the Dead Sea.

Stress Reduction

Like many chronic illnesses, outbreaks of eczema can be triggered by stress. The best way to holistically treat eczema is to eliminate the underlying emotional and psychological triggers with meditation, counseling and peer support.