How to Use Lavender to Treat Eczema
Eczema is group of skin conditions that can affect different people in various ways. Some people show symptoms with dry itchy patches of skin, while others feel burning and suffer from bleeding. Lavender has soothing properties. People who have "dry" eczema (no open sores or lesions) may be able to treat their symptoms with it.
Things You'll Need
- Fresh lavender buds
- Oatmeal
- Blender
- Cheesecloth
- String or ribbon
- Lavender essential oil
- Unscented body lotion
Instructions
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1
Measure 2 tbsp. each of fresh lavender buds and oatmeal. Use plain oatmeal only for this recipe, not the flavored kind.
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2
Put the lavender and oatmeal in a blender and pulse until it is thoroughly mixed. The lavender's scent should be quite strong.
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3
Spread out some cheesecloth. You may need to use more than one layer so the mixture does not fall through. A muslin bag or other porous material can be used as well.
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4
Take the lavender mixture out of the blender and place it in the center of the cheesecloth. Pull up the sides to make a bag. Use a piece of string or ribbon to tightly close the bag, leaving a length of string hanging down.
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5
Run a warm bath, adding 2 to 4 drops of lavender essential oil to the tub. The oil will help create a calming vapor with the steam from the bath.
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6
Use the long end of the string from the lavender-oatmeal bag to tie it on the bathtub faucet. The bag should be completely immersed in the water.
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7
Rub the bag on your dry skin as you bathe. The mixture may help treat the itchiness as you relax in your scented bath.
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8
Add a drop of lavender essential oil to some plain, unscented body lotion. Apply to your skin after bathing.
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Tips & Warnings
If time does not allow for a full lavender bath treatment, try using cool lavender water instead. Pour boiling water over dried lavender and let it soak. Chill the water in the refrigerator after straining out the leaves. Dab onto your dry skin as needed.
Speak with your doctor to make sure it is okay for you to treat your eczema with lavender remedies. Some eczema is brought on by foreign irritants coming in contact with the skin. If you suffer from this type of eczema, lavender may not be the wisest choice of treatments.
