Table of Contents
Eczema Remedies
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DISCLAIMER
Our readers offer information and opinions on Earth Clinic, not as a substitute for professional medical prevention, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with your physician, pharmacist, or health care provider before taking any home remedies or supplements or following any treatment suggested by anyone on this site. Only your health care provider, personal physician, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for your unique needs or diagnose your particular medical history.
1 YEA
[YEA] 10/08/2008: Millicent from Missouri City, TX, USA writes: "I am a 25 year old female who just acquired eczema for the first time at 20 years old when I had my second daughter (who also has eczema). Any medication the doctor gave her would make her worse, and me. That's when I found out that eczema, allergies, and sensitive skin are all completely seperate from each other.
For example: The first cream that was given to us, we found out contained petroleum, which I found out we are allergic to and it made the eczema worse. The creams that did not contain petroleum still had a lot of chemicals, which our skin is sensitive to, so they too made the eczema worse. The only thing that I have found that will COMPLETELY heal my eczema and leave me and my daughter with the most smooth, beautiful, flawless skin you have ever seen is Oatmeal. I guess because my skin is sensitive, the Apple Cider Vinegar dries my skin and causes peeling, even with very small doses. Oatmeal contains fiber which I have found is the only thing that will clear my skin. Any thing I eat I make sure contains lots of fiber and whole grains.
I understand that skin problems start in the digestive tract but I think my skin problems came from taking too much iron. The doctor would always complain about my iron being so low. When I was pregnant, I was taking pre-natal vitamins with iron, and a separate iron pill. I just recently read that a person's Iron cannot be low. Iron is stored in the body in the right amounts, then is has to get released into the blood. I think my body was not releasing the iron in the right amounts. My mother also had the same problem. When she was pregnant with my sister, her iron was really low, and she had to get iron shots everyday. My sister now has eczema, allergies, and very sensitive skin too. Oatmeal and other high fiber foods (not only grains but spinach, apples, bananas, beans, etc are also high in fiber) cleans all the gunk out of the blood whch helps your body to regulate the minerals in the blood. I am not a doctor so I do not know how this works. I would love for some one the explain it more thoroughly."
10/16/2008: Juli from Socorro, NM replies: "Your story is very familiar to me. I, too, was iron deficient throughout my last pregnancy. My eczema began during pregnancy and continued after it, and my son was born with the same skin problems. My doctor diagnosed it as "eczema", which is a spurious diagnosis that means your doctor is too lazy to discover what is really wrong with you. When I started to come down with the flu, I went to the store and bought zinc lozenges. After three days of the lozenges, most of the eczema went away. After a few weeks of 50 mg zinc tablets, my rashes were gone. So were my son's (probably from nursing). During pregnancy, the woman's body ups its copper storage for the protection of the baby. Some women are prone to storing too much and can become zinc deficient. BTW, it is the excess copper that causes the rashes and not the lack of zinc. Many months later, I still take the zinc on and off. It has completely gotten rid of my acne, the white spots on my nails, as well as the eczema. This is kind of a complex subject, but I will try to make it simple: when the body is overloaded on copper, it is stored in the liver, thereby causing a deficiency in the blood which shows up as a kind of anemia in blood tests that has nothing to do with iron deficiency. It also isn't copper deficiency, but copper overload that causes a false reading. Anyway, your story is so familiar, and zinc supplements are so cheap, that it is worth a try.
p.s. another BTW, I still can't wear jewelry, even after months of zinc lozenges, due to the copper alloy in gold and silver jewelry."
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2 YEA
[YEA] 10/08/2009: Doug from Cucamonga, Ca, Usa writes: "I have had a large patch of eczema on the back of my leg for about 10 years. Sometimes it doesn't itch much, other times it itches so bad that I scratch it until it's raw. I have tried a number of topical treatments, all of which helped...but none of which were able to cure it completely. So finally, after 10 years, it's gone! And what, you ask, is the reason? Ocean water. Several months ago I went to a 2 week training in San Diego and noticed that after snorkeling a handful of times in my spare time, the itch was lessened and the skin on the back of my knee felt softer. I loved snorkeling (not for eczema reduction, but simply because I enjoyed it) and I recently decided to get Scuba certified. After a dive I would notice, like with snorkeling, that the itch was lessened and the skin on the back of my knee felt softer. Well, over the past 2 months I have done about 15 dives and the eczema is gone! Ten years of various natural and unnatural salves/creams/pastes couldn't fix what the ocean could after only several "treatments".
It's worth noting that (I believe) one would have to actually go to the ocean and be in the water to get the benifits. That is, I do not believe mixing salt and water would work. Nor do I believe you could bring home some ocean water and apply it and get the same results. It is my belief that the ocean water needs to be "alive". Meaning, it needs to be full of all the bacteria/microorganisms/fresh plant particles etc. that are present in the water's natural state. I realise that not all eczema sufferers live on the coast, so for many sufferers this may not be helpful info--but for eczema sufferers living near the beach, they would be well advised to take make as many beach trips as possible...it could very well be the miracle cure they're looking for.
Also, I had the thought that maybe fresh "ocean" water from a salt-water aquarium could be effective. Since, in the aquarium, the water contains many of the same bacteria etc. that would be found in the natural ocean it seems at least possible that this water could be used to treat eczema (i.e. dipping a cloth in the tank and applying it to the affected area. In theory, at least, this seems more likely to be successful than, say, transporting ocean water from the beach since many of the living organisms in the water will be unable to survive for more than a couple of hours.
Sincerely,
Doug"
10/09/2009: Rob from Manhattan, New York replies: "Hi Doug, good to hear you found a cure... I have a friend with severe Psoriatic Arthritis and for him the only really effective treatment is a trip to the Dead Sea. He said buying the bath salts just didn't do it. I wonder if it could be a combination of the sun and sea water and stress relief. Tout ensemble!"
[YEA] 01/06/2010: Jim from Ipswich, Sd Usa replies: "Hey Doug, I suffer from eczema on my ankles, when I went in the Navy I snorkeled often. I noticed the seawater and sun would clear my eczema right away. I try using a tanning bed now and it helps, but the combination sun and seawater worked well. The ACV stops the itch for now till I can get back to the sea."
01/13/2010: Bunny from Santa Ana, Ca replies: "Any time you have a skin issue that improves in the sun it could indicate an inability to produce enough fumaric acid. A doctor can test for it. I'ts a genetic glitch, so you will need to supplement forever if this is the problem."
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1 BETTER BUT NOT CURED
[BETTER BUT NOT CURED] 09/29/2009: Suzanne from Kansas City, Mo, Usa writes: "On the subject of Eczema - I have been giving my teen Oil of Oregano in capsules (one in the morning and one at night) to help with her Eczema; this has helped trememdously with the itching and some of the redness. We have tried the cortizone cremes from the doctors and that did not help her at all. I've been reading here today on the suggstions of using Apple Cider Vinegar and plan to try that. I can remember as a small child my grandma taking vinegar to help with her ailments so maybe there is something to this.
As a side note I personally am taking the oregano capsules as well for sinus relief (have been for three years). I used to have a large problem with my sinus passages closing up when I laid down for the evening. I was taking a ton of OTC medications to just be able to go to sleep. I started taking this after reading up about the many health issues that are related to what is in our blood stream and that this herb can help with this. I do belive that this herb has helped us a lot."
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1 YEA
[YEA] 09/29/2006: Tricia from Astoria, NY writes: "I have been pulling since july 06 with sesame and safflower oils. I just love the sesame because it tastes like halvah to me. My skin on the top of my right foot was covered with eczema and it was itchy and inflamed constantly. It is still discolored from all the abuse it received from me. The wonderful result though is the inflammation has subsided. I am noticing new skin growing back slowly. It is thrilling to know that this harmless protocol is helping this painful debilitating disease that orthodox meds cannot heal. Peace and Health to all."
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1 BETTER BUT NOT CURED
[BETTER BUT NOT CURED] 01/12/2010: Felirose from Destin, Florida writes: "Olive Oil Helped my Eczema
I've had eczema for several years now. Originally, I was told that it was ringworm, so I tried putting Apple Cider Vinegar on it (that was not organic - it was the brown/amber color it was supposed to be, but was diluted, a generic store brand). That only made it much, much worse.
After getting a second opinion, I was told it was eczema and put on 0.05% steroid cream. It helps a ton, but is expensive...
So I started using Olive Oil. I filled the bathtub up with hot water, and put about a 1/8 cup (perhaps a little less - you do not need much at all) of Extra Virgin Olive Oil in it. Then I just relaxed in the bathtub for an hour or so. I also put a 1/4 cup of epsom salt in there, to help me relax.
After I got out, I patted myself dry with a terrycloth towel (be careful getting out of the tub - and don't towel dry like normal, because you'll rub the oil off your body) and got dressed. My Eczema looked much better, not to mention, my entire body felt like silk!"
01/15/2010: Francisca from Michelbach-le-bas, France replies: "Nice to read that someone else also uses olive oil in the bath water.... Due to the age my skin is a lot drier and nothing seemed to help. I am now using olive oil but I wonder whether it really works. When I get out my skin is very moist but then during the night if I wake up I start noticing that my hands are very dry. Does the olive oil only work on the surface?"
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1 BETTER BUT NOT CURED
[BETTER BUT NOT CURED] 09/25/2009: Genevieve from Bronx, Ny writes: "I have serious eczema and i found that since i have been taking probiotics the inflammation has reduced dramatically. I know how badly eczema can make you feel. I have suffered with it for over 15 years."
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1 YEA
12/28/2008: Linda from West Newfield, Maine writes: "RE: metal contamination...I haven't attempted a detox...I have eczema, so the docs have told me. Sometimes the itch is to the point where I could scratch the skin off my hands and fingers...often, I try to just rub my hands together to alleviate the itch and quite often this results in a strong odor on my hands - as if I've been handling coins. Would this appear to be indication of metal overload? I take levothyroxine for a radio-iodine-fried thyroid...drink lots of coffee and have recently given up the flouride toothpaste; gave up the aluminum deoderant a month or two ago...thanks for all feedback.
Earth Clinic is a wealth of information and great reading!!
Happy New Year!"
EC: That's a great question for Ted! We'll send it to him and post his response as soon as we hear back.
[YEA] 12/29/2008: Ted from Bangkok, Thailand replies: "Handling coins can result in a couple of contamination that has been known to cause irritation of the skin and metals does get absorbed through the skin, but much more so in handling of coins compared to taking showers, as the metal concentration on handling coins are much higher, and the oils on the skin makes it an ideal carrier for metal absorption. Interestingly, for some reason or another, virus also exists in handling paper money which develops skin eruption immediately. The other issue is the unknown pathogens that exist on metal coin, in particular, certain funguses, that seem to thrive in certain metals. I haven't found which kinds of metallic coins are responsible, but there is a presence of certain fungus that may also lead to eczema. The only known remedy I used to chelate out heavy metals, externally, is either the tetrasodium EDTA or the disodium EDTA, to be used as a soap after counting coins. So the use of EDTA solution helps prevent accumulation of them by their chelation.However, the most frequently encountered eczema from handling coins are fungus and mycoplasma, that causes skin eczema and irriation. There is a couple of remedies that can be tried, one is plain distilled vinegar, soaking the hands for a couple of minutes. This is a mild remedy. If that doesn't work, another possible remedy is a saturated borax solution and if possible the addtion of either ammonium chloride, or ammonium bicarbonate is mixed into the solution helps, of equal amount in a water solution. The strongest of the remedy is either a sodium chlorite 25% concentration, adding several drops of that in a cup of water with a tablespoon of vinegar is one possibility. However, an alternative is also possible, which means a Clorox one cap, per cup for the skin also helps. Some person actually were so desperate the use full undiluted Clorox solution to stop the itchiness. Although I believe this to be too strong and reduces the body's iodine by displacement and make the body more vulnerable to diseases as it tends to suppress the immune functions of both the thymus and the thyroid by chlorine displacing iodine. In any event this issue is also the same if a person happens to be using the MMS (sodium chlorite 28%) with a citric acid. They work similarly, but it's long term use I have found was a goiter or a hypothyroid problem. This can be lessened with a supplements of an iodine solution. One other possibility is the use of Lugol's iodine applied to the area of eczema.
Of course I am always assuming this organism to be of fungal orgins, as a result, I sometimes used a 1.5% hydrogen peroxide mixed with equal amounts of vinegar. This becomes peracetic acid. This is also fairly effective in neutralizing the fungus/mycoplasma caused eczema too. It is soaked in the hands for a couple of minutes, or less, if it becomes somewhat of an irritant, then the hand is removed, and rinsed thoroughly. In the long run, it's best to handle coins with a latex glove, although unconfortable sometimes it won't cause new infections. But that's assuming of course the skin's no longer infected. If it was to be infected, and the use of latex this would inevitably make it worse because the moisture on the hand would feed the fungus. Hence, rinsing the skin with fungus with vinegar for example, before latex glove use may lessen the problem.
It should be noted that eczema skin problem is the most frequently encountered problems for me and as a result, I have devised many formulation. One recent one, which is my favorite, but there is a big downside to cause the skin to be temporarily blue, but can be easily removed with a dishwasher liquid. For some reason or another, the soap seems to encourage fungus growth, but not dishwasher liquid, perhaps the sodium lauryl sulfate, but I can't be certain as I haven't tested this. Anyway the solution I am using is the methylene blue 0.1% concentration, applied to the skin. It stops eczema invariably within 5 minutes because of it's antifungal properties.
Taking sodium ascorbate vitamin C, and a carbicarb remedy is the other ones that reduce overall eczema issue, but is non localized, so its effectiveness here is limited.
A very agressive form of eczema, I may resort to a stronger means, such as a 2.5% - 5% copper chloride solution applied to the skin for 1 minute before rinse. Some of my friends liked it so much they refused to rinse it, but I prefer to rinse it. In event someone don't like to rinse, a lower concentration such as 2.0% - 2.5% is a preferred one since it causes less skin irritation.
If there is anything I haven't quite covered, but is also unlikely is the MRSA, which can easily be neutralized with a milk of magnesia 8% solution. The reason why I know it to work, besides my own experience is in microbiology it is well known that staphyloccous can't survive in pH of above 9 and the milk of magnesia solution is between 9-10, as well as these MRSA have a weakness in presence of magnesium. However MRSA don't cause itchiness. Other forms of bacteria is a possibility and causes itch too, so milk of magnesia is an old standby if none of the above works. However, they all work, but how thoroughly they kill them, varies.
Ted"
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11/25/2009: Margaret from Riverside, Ca writes: "Please help. I have ear eczema in the canal - my ears have a clear fluid discharge, they are crusty,cracked and very painful.I have fought this for about 10 yrs but just had a ENT tell me what it was. It is in both ears and now it has spread to the outside of the ear. I am so desperate.
Margaret"
11/26/2009: Merryanne from Orange City, Florida, USA replies: "To Margaret in CA,,this Merryanne in FL,,I understand everthing you are saying,,,I am dealing with the same problem,,and one or two others,,Surprisingly I have found two treatmens that help many skin and internal problems. 1. I take 3 drops of Logol's Solution 2% in 2 cups of distilled water(use water with no floride or clorine) at least 2 times a day, do 3 if you have time, this is a balanced Iodine solution, I order from an online company, Swanson Vitamins,,. I take 2 teaspoon of a light oil, like olive or any light oil and add 10 drops of oil of Oregano, then use cotton tips and put in the ear canal, reaply as need to keep moist, clean out the canal maybe once a week with hydrogen peroixied, put a few drops in the earl canal and let it bubble for a few miniutes then turn your head over and drain out, then put your oil solution back in your ear with cotton tips, just enough to moist the area. Continue to take the Iodine until you feal that you have accomplished what you need. If you skip a day or two, that is ok if you have been taking it already for 3 or more days,,,mising one or two days sometime makes the treatments more effective. I hope this helps you, It has helped me, Merryanne in FL"
11/26/2009: P from Sao Paulo, Brazil replies: "Margaret,
I recently cured a 10 month-long case of vesicular eczema (dydidrosis) by massaging undiluted apple cider vinegar on my feet a couple of times a day. I had tried ACV before and it didn't work, but the trick was to massage the whole foot and not use a cotton swab to apply on certain areas only. I'm amazed with ACV, once again!
However, I'm not sure ACV in the ear canal is a good thing... you might want to try diluting it and let it soak in each ear for a while, they work your way down on dilution so no side effects are noted.
One thing: as one recent funny post here on EC indicated, DO NOT USE GARLIC oil! haha"
EC: P is referring to Ouchy McNumbface's hilarious 06/02/2008 post in this section: http://www.earthclinic.com/CURES/earache.html#GARLIC
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09/09/2009: Alyson from Plano, Tx writes: "HELP!! I seem to have horrible excema in my ear canals. Its very difficult (and, I know, unwise!!) to scratch, but the irritation is so bad sometimes I actually twitch! It then eventually leads to an outer ear infection and so on. Does anyone have any suggestions on how to relieve this? Im nervous trying other excema remedies for my ear canal for fear it will hurt my ear drum or sting (I read the post about putting oregano essential oil in the ear canal - I laughed and cried so hard!!). Any suggestions would be so appreciated!! Thank you!
Alyson"
09/09/2009: Chanel from Philadelphia, Pa replies: "Are you sure this is eczema? It sounds like you may have a candida problem. One of the symptoms is itchy ears. I had that problem a couple of years ago and it was pretty bad. My ears itched all the time and they were scaly and the back of my scalp was scaly too. I was very lucky - I went to a local pharmacy that promotes holistic healing and asked for a dandruff shampoo that wasn't too harsh...the wonderful pharmacist said the problem is on a cellular level and gave me a questionaire to help determine if I had a candida problem. He also recommended probiotics twice per day. I realized I did have a candida problem and had great success with the probiotics, and I also followed up with some dietary changes and using a product from ___ called ___ which is an herbal cleanse. It worked for me because my ears and scalp are no longer scaly and itchy and I had that problem for years!"
09/10/2009: Linda from York County, Maine replies: "Hi Gals...I've had itchy ears, too, but not deep in the ear canal...more at the opening of my ear...got very crusty and yucky, I couldn't leave it alone. The back of my head has itched for a year...not scaly, really, but itchy like crazy...both have been better of late. (My daughter once massaged my head briefly and said my scalp felt 'tight' - she's an LMT.) I tried __ Food which helps the oxygen in your body be dispersed for the ulitmate benefit....also, my thyroid replacement was reduced a month or so ago...not sure what has helped my condition, but thought I'd check in to commiserate a bit. And to offer my experience with something that sounds so similar to what you're suffering with. I thought I was the only one!!"
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06/10/2009: Nangy from North Myrtle Beach, S.C. writes: "my granddaughter suffers greatly from eczema, she has battled an undiagnosed skin infection for six months, the dr. said it was only an eczema flair up, after going to 5 different drs. they finally tested her and she had an infection on her skin, her mom has spent thousands of dollars on drs.and steroids which she hates using!!! now the dr. is telling her to give her bleach baths, and im not sure about this. he said it would change the ph in the water but their water has chlorine in it already. she is seven years old and has many food allergies, cant go outside much because her grass and pollen allergies flair up her eczema, home schooled because of severe peanut allergy and the dr.said public school was to risky. please help me help my precious baby."
06/10/2009: April from Gary, In replies: "Please don't give her a bleach bath. I have been suffering from eczema since my preteen years, so I can deeply sympathize. It sounds like she is very sensitive as am I. I am no dr. but I would think that chlorine would dry her skin even more. I personally can't use bleach at all. You want something that is going to moisturize and repair her skin. I have been using coconut oil and it seems to be working very well."
06/10/2009: Anonymous from Anonyville, USA replies: "Google goji health food stories and read how goji has helped people there with various skin conditions and ailments. it may help with ph levels too. Burt's B__'s milk and honey body lotion, seems to be very soothing and healing for the skin. bleach sounds pretty harsh and may make it worse. wishing you and your family well!"
06/10/2009: Robin from Corvallis, Oregon replies: "I have used 1/2 Apple Cider Vinegar and 1/2 Water to get rid of eczema. You can use stronger solutions depending on the area of the body. Give it a few days and watch the difference. :)"
06/10/2009: Mo from New York, NY replies: "Hello Nangy,
I understand your concern - but as April mentioned - a bleach bath does not sound like such a good idea although some might swear by it. My 2 year old had terrible eczema on her cheeks and my son (almost 4) on his legs. I did not want to use steroids although my daughter looked dreadful at least for my son his legs were hidden.
I read almost all the remedies here on Earth Clinic and finally did the following:
For my daughter:
1) As it was her face with weeping, blood encrusted skin (partly from scratching)- I was afraid to use ACV. Therefore I cleaned it with a drop or two of iodine and then applied Coconut Oil. After it closed and there was no fear of infection and the itching decrease I only applied Coconut Oil. I did this diligently every night and just about any time that I saw that her cheeks looked dry. The skin seemed to drink it all up and looked dry very quickly - but I persevered.
2) I also blending flax seed every morning and added it to breakfast (no particular measurement. Again I persevere and still continue.
My daughter looked wonderful and for the first time in a while the pinkness in her cheeks is due to a healthy glow - not eczema.
For my son:
I diluted ACV with water 50/50 - spray it on his legs - when it seeped into the skin - I would apply Coconut Oil.
Occasionally, I would give my children a bit (less than a teaspoon) of Coconut Oil when they would wat it. However, I begun cooking everything in Coconut Oil.
I have continued using Coconut Oil as the only type of lotion for my children. Therefore, I have lost track regarding how long the eczema took to clear up. However, for me the key was perseverance - when it seems like nothing was happening I continued and the results are perfect.
Thanks again Earth Clinic and to everyone who shared.
I really hope this can help Nangy's granddaughter - it is worth a trip anyhow.
Mo"
06/10/2009: sanchez0004 from Sacramento, CA replies: "Regarding 7 yr. old with eczema: I have battled with severe eczema for over 30 years. (I'm 32 now) Bleach is NOT the way to go for her skin. You want to try and get rid of perfumes and anything that has chemicals in it. Use laundry det with no coloring, perfumes, etc... Go through the entire household and get rid of all of your cleaners, scented items, dust, etc... Try buying some organic, natural detergent from your health food store. Do not use anything that has perfumes or chemicals in it.I have always been able to keep my eczema under control with plain lotion (no coconut oil because it can irritate skin) and no hot baths. Hot water makes eczema worse believe it or not; just make sure her shower is lukewarm.
Good luck for your baby and I highly suggest doing some internet research on natural eczema remedies."
06/10/2009: Luis from Cali, Colombia replies: "Dear Nangy:Make a paste of turmeric plus aloe vera and smear it in your grandaughter skin. It also prevents skin cancer. No more suffering. It is an ayurvedic medicine.
For your best days."
06/11/2009: Kyraf from Cortlandt Manor, New York replies: "Hi Nangy,
I have three girls who have suffered with Eczema since birth. Upon learning about Earthclinic I have made some changes to our daily grooming as a family. I prepare all baths with warm water. epsom salt, borax, baking soda, peroxide and tea tree oil. We use NO SOAP on our skin. After bathing we moisturize with extra virgin coconut oil. Honestly, my girls now have the most beautiful skin. No spots and no more itching. Coconut oil has amazing healing properties. There is another post on the Eczema page about not using soap. I believe that along with the coconut oil has made the difference."
06/12/2009: Mo from NY, New York replies: "Hello Nangy,
I also agree with Kyraf and other posts - I also eliminated all soaps. Additionally, I use a natural soap and no detergents in our home. I guess all these change plus what I mentioned previously contributed to my children now healthy skin!!!
All the best,
Mo"
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05/12/2009: Helena from Beijing, China writes: "facial veins from steroid use for treating eczema on baby:
Hi, wondering if anyone can help me.
I was living overseas in Asia when my daughter (9 months)began suffering from a very mild form of Atopic Ecezma. I consulted my Paediatrician(at the time) and a skin specialist. They both recommended I begin applying a hydra cortisone lotion which was 1% strength to her face(cheek area) and under neck and arm joints and back of knee joints. She suffered from this condition until approx. 2 years of age. She is now almost 5 and has developed fine veins on her cheeks or 'pityriasis alba" and 'facial telangiectasia'. This was diagnosed only last week by another skin specialist. I was not given any information on the danger of using such a strong lotion on my daughters skin or any potential side effects such as skin thinning, vein formation. It is quite common for hyrda cortisone to be used on babies in Asia and my 'old' skin specialist and paediatrician still stand by what they did as the best thing.
I am needless to say very devastated and emotional. Is there anything I can do that will help her skin grow back better and maybe repair some of the damage. I really hope that someone who has had this kind of experience with their child/ren can help."
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1 YEA
[YEA] 11/14/2007: Mace from Atlanta, Georgia writes: "This is absolutly the best thing ever, I just got on this site had no idea of what it was; i googled cures for eczema and found it, i read a post that said to wash in salt and then use the acv, so i decided to do my upper body and see if it took well... man this is no joke it's not itching at all, the small rash like bumps are gone from my upper body and now i have to take another shower because i have to do the lower portion of my body... i also added the use of some pure olive oil... thanks a million if you are not sure just give it a try."
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1 YEA
[YEA] 09/15/2006: DevG from Chicago, IL writes: "The traditional "solutions" for eczema are largely ineffective and potentially harmful. I've worked my way through and into some helpful tips in dealing with eczema:
My suggestions :
-- salt rub (preferably in the shower or bathtub)
Use simple plain table salt.
Mix salt with a little warm water to form a firm pasty mixture that's not runny.
Rub this mixture on the skin to relieve the itch without scratching too deeply or causing bloodshed. Salt in a wound burns which in this case satiates the itch desire. The salt helps the skin understand to produce good oils and good stuff so that the skin can learn how to moisten itself.
If one gets too much salt on or it burns a little, use water to rinse the salt and the sting away.
-- (preferably after salt treatment) Dr. Bronner's Mint liquid soap available at health food stores and at Trader Joes. Trader Joe costs about $9 per 32oz bottle.
This helps. This eases itching and feels good and keeps the skin moist. Helps the skin heal. It's good. It works well in tandem with the salt.
-- tiger balm
Apply tiger balm to affected areas. It seems to help decrease the itching desire. I have not used this method in many years. I don't remember how it works exactly except that it has helped me in the past.
-- gasoline (I don't really recommend this...) Once, I spilled gasoline on my hand with eczema on it...the gasoline seemed to have caused the eczema to go away."
04/11/2009: Glenys from Wellington, New Zealand replies: "Hey - the comment about gasoline just triggered a memory for me. Many years ago, I got bitten by mosquitoes and/or sandflies a lot when I was staying in Auckland (New Zealand). An old-timer I knew at the time told me to put Kerosine on the bites - he said it would stop the itching and would keep away the mozzies etc. As my bites were bleeding and fairly raw because of my scratiching, I was very loathe to try this, but I finally did it. Blow me if it didn't work a treat! And, didn't sting - took away all the itch, pain, plus stopped me from getting bitten! I did stink of Kerosine tho lol."
04/11/2009: Ananda from Madrid, NM replies: "It is far healthier, easier, cheaper, etc etc. to use your own AGED pee for all external conditions. Get 5 bottles, pee in a new one each day. The 5th day urine has converted to ammonia, of course with ones own body cell salts. Massage into any external condition .. herpes, shingles, eczema, weeping eczema, gangrene (yes, amputation is not necessary!!), etc. etc. Severe condtions can keep a compress wet with the old pee. you will find tons of references if you search the web "Urine Therapy".
Also used FRESH for internal conditions, curing lots of heavies, including malaria in 10 days. Once the mind is out of the way, you will discover it tastes like vege soup .. except very strong after eating cabbage family. It cured a good friend in India with years of weeping ecaema, in a matter of a few months. now 20 years ago, and it still has not returned to him."
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1 YEA
[YEA] 07/18/2009: Sally from Austin, Texas writes: "Sea Salt baths have almost cured my eczema in a matter of weeks. Get a good one that has minerals and put about 3/4 cup into the tub. I've also started taking iodine tablets."
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1 YEA
[YEA] 05/19/2008: Trey from Minot, ND writes: "Eczema Remedy: I went to France last summer and my eczema went away in a matter of days. I got back to the US and it came back in a few weeks. I tried to figure out what was different in France that helped my skin. I thought the water might be and that my showers could be making my skin worse. I bought a shower filter which easily attaches right before the head of the shower for $18 at Menards. Within a few days my skin started to clear up and has been better than ever these past few months. My filter recently filled up though and quit doing its job so I had to buy a new one, so make sure you replace them if you notice your skin going bad."
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1 YEA
[YEA] 04/28/2009: Faith from Atlanta, GA writes: "Some years ago I saw native people in Indonesia using soap nuts, the dry fruit of the soap berry tree, to wash their clothes. Little did I know that years later I would find them in my local health food store and that they would cure my eczema. I just started looking for a natural laundry soap because I want to clean up my life and get rid of synthetics.. The soap nuts were the only thing in the store that looked really natural. First I noticed the laundry didn't smell like chemicals. It smelled like NOTHING, absolutely nothing. After a few weeks I noticed the eczema on my shoulder blades was almost entirely gone. Getting excited I went back to the store and got soap nut laundry liquid. It contained organic essential oils of lavender, tea tree and lemongrass. It's my new bath soap and a lifetime of eczema is gone. Thanks to Maggie, for sharing the secret."
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SPECIAL SHAMPOO, ZINC SUPPLEMENTS
[YEA] 12/17/2007: Faith from Visalia, California writes: "I have had an outbreak of dermatitis eczema on my face around my eyes and nose for a little over a month. After being diagnosed at the doctor I was put onto "Free and Clear" shampoo and conditioner. I immediately saw results, within a few days. I also have tried creams including zinc.(diaper rash creams etc..) They are ok to use while at home as a relief for the burning and itching but too noticeable to use all the time. The dermatologist I saw suggested I use a zinc supplement as well, either in a multivitamin or in a singular supplement. I have not yet tried this but she informed me that zinc is good for healing skin. Hope this information helps some of you! Eczema is a terrible thing to deal with and causes alot of discomfort as well as insecurities!"
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1 YEA
1 NAY
1 BETTER BUT NOT CURED
[YEA] 05/19/2008: Trey from Minot, ND writes: "I also notice that summer time usually stops the eczema but comes back in the winter. But chlorine has always made it worse whenever I've gone swimming. I think sunlight might help."
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[BETTER BUT NOT CURED] 04/28/2008: Anna from Elk Grove, California, USA writes: "i have red blotches of eczema on my arms. It gets really bad in winter and spring. In summer, when I'm out in the pool and sunlight it heals, almost totally goes away. Then comes back again with a vegence in the fall/winter. Does sunlight or chlorine help in healing it?"
[NAY] 06/02/2008: Nick from Grayslake, Illinois replies: "re: Eczema: Sunlight seems to make my skin more itchy and red, I believe that my skin better in summer because of the relaxing time of year were I seem to have more fun and not because of the sun."
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2 YEA
[YEA] 10/15/2009: Danijel from Minneapolis, Mn writes: "I had problem with my skin excema for years. I started taking vitamin B5 and superoxidants and and my skin started clearing after two weeks. Now I do not have any facial and back skin excema! It is worth a try! Good luck!"
EC: B5 is also known as Pantothenic Acid.
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[YEA] 12/11/2008: Gean from Salina, KS writes: "My sister's three small children all suffered with itchy eczema, until she started giving them Moducare, which is plant sterols and sterulins. I don't remember how much she gave them, but I believe it was the recommended dose for small children - ages 1 1/2 and up. It's a tasteless powder that comes in a capsule, so you can mix it with applesauce or juice. All the eczema issues resolved. She stopped giving it to them after about a year or so, and the eczema never came back.
Moducare also greatly helped an asthmatic child who was told by his dr. he'd have to be on steroids for the rest of his life. He never did take the steroids, and the asthma got better."
EC: More information: http://www.moducare.com/produsinfo.asp
Each capsule/tablet contains: per capsule/tablet daily dose
Sterols (from pine) 20 mg 60 mg
Sterolins (from pine) 0.2 mg 0.6 mg
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1 YEA
[YEA] 11/18/2006: Celene from West Springfield, MA writes: "I tried using a teaspoon of table salt, mixed with a little warm water to form a paste. I applied it to the side of my nose (where the crease is) because i have a very itchy patch of skin there that I can't seem to stop scratching! Putting salt on itchy skin works! It breaks the scratch/itch cycle, but eating garlic everyday will help also!"
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1 YEA
[YEA] 01/02/2010: Sp from Nashville, Tn writes: "Tea tree oil is the only thing that worked for my eczema. I have eczema on the back of my neck, chest and on my legs. I have tried using virgin coconut oil, honey, apple cider vinegar, cleaning it with borax, .... no of these methods worked for me. I even have a prescription cream that worked only when I used it every day. When I don't use the cream the eczema comes back.
The only thing that truly worked for me is the TEA TREE OIL.
I mix a a couple of drops with almond oil or olive oil in the palm of my hand and rub it on the spots every night. My condition cleared up within one week of this treatment. The irritation, itchiness, redness is gone. It has been one month now and I am eczema free. I still do use the treatment weekly to keep eczema at bay."
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1 QUESTION
[QUESTION] 02/19/2009: Michelle from Charlotte, NC writes: "Hi Ted,
I recently in the last year have developed eczema on the back of my legs and face. I want to try your sodium carbonate remedy but was wondering if I could put it in vinegar. I take 2T of ACV in a glass of water w/ 1/2t of baking soda 3x a day. Can I add the sodium carbonate to that? I tried sodium carbonate and baking soda in a glass of water-1/4 t each and it did help my eczema immediately. Just want to know if I can combine it w/ the vinegar so I am not taking too many tonics. By the way, I love the vinegar- it gives me energy and has upped my metabolism.
Thank you for all your help,
Michelle"
EC: Michelle, would you kindly tell us where you bought sodium carbonate? It keeps coming up! Thanks...
11/17/2009: Jjc from Indio, Ca, USA replies: "My son is 7years old and suffers from severe eczsema. I am DESPERATELY searching for an alternative cure. I already started on ACV w/honey and baking soda for about 1 week already, but it has only cured his wheezing..which i'm very grateful for. However, I started washing him with 25% ACV and 75% water..he cries because it stings and the downside is i've only seen it relieve the itching for a couple of hours and it comes back during the night. The next morning it's very, very irritated. I've been trying this treatment for only 3days, will it get better? I would really like to try the sodium carbonate & baking soda remedy but i read that the sodium carbonate (washing soda) can cause vomiting, is that true? HELP"
11/17/2009: Jae from Baltimore, Md replies: "Did you mean asthma? If you are referring to asthma try elderberry syrup. My son had a bad cough and wheezing and we used that and it went away quickly."
11/20/2009: Kate from Adelaide, Australia replies: "I had severe eczema as a child too, so I'd like to think I can help some people out there. Firstly though I will say I am not able to help you with your current questions on Apple Cider Vinegar, etc. It wasn't until I was in my mid teens when acidic properties looked like they were to blame for my eczema, in particular oranges. You can get patch tests performed at dermatologists. They will test your son for numerous allergic possibilities. Over the years, I have also had to watch my intake of other acidic fruits such as tomatoes, lemons, limes and even grapes. Your son could possibly be having a reaction like this, if he does eat say lots of oranges for example. It is also a good idea to keep a food diary. You can record what your boy eats each day in one column, and in another column you can write his reaction to that food, if any. Eventually you will see a pattern form. There may be one or more culprits. I am not sure if you have been using any cortisone creams on your son. If so, it is advisable to try and put the cream on 'before' he feels any itching. I used to apply it once I had already starting scratching and by that point it was useless because it would just make me want to scratch even more. When I learned to apply it religiously (about 2-3 times per day) it would be more controllable. Keep your boy away from soap, there are plenty of soap free products today that will be gentler for his skin. Buy more natural based fibres for his clothes such as cotton. Wool is one of the most awful fabrics for eczema skin! The worst thing one can do is scratch an eczema spot 'vigorously' as in up and down the arm as that will only spread it. Just digging a nail lightly in or even just pressing against the itchy point is usually enough to relieve the itch. Remember 'Knowledge Is Power' so explore this condition as much as you can and you will help your son no end."
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1 YEA
[YEA] 05/16/2007: Deanna from Seattle writes: "I have had eczema around my nose for years now and have experimented with every imaginable remedy on the planet to see what helps. Somethings would help for 2 days and then it would come back. Well, recently we ran out of our normal toothpaste and bought a natural one without fluoride at Whole Foods. 3 days later my eczema was gone. I didn't think the toothpaste was doing a great job at getting my teeth cleaned so I went and bought the usual fluoride toothpaste. Within 24 hours my eczema came back. Yep, I put it all together and went back to the non-fluoride toothpaste, supplemented with a good ole brush of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda every other day or so. Eczema disappeared, not to return. Teeth, healthy and fresh. From the research I am now doing on the web, it appears that fluoride causes a lot of serious health problems! Glad to make the discovery."
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