Natural Treatments for Eczema & Psoriasis

For the treatment of skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis, it may seem like the best option to choose the creams prescribed by a doctor or pharmacist but very often these creams are laden with chemicals and toxic ingredients that will hinder your skin's natural recovery process and actually harm your skin. Trying natural products for the treatment of skin conditions could improve skin dramatically and help soothe and repair for long-lasting relief. Here we discuss the benefits of natural treatments and how they may help aid the skin.

Natural Aloe Vera Gel has been shown to more effective in treating Psoriasis then steroid creams (J Reuter 1, A Jocher, J Stump, B Grossjohann, G Franke, C M Schempp). Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties because it contains a number of enzymes that help reduce inflammation. Aloe Vera can help with the burning sensation, soothing skin and reducing inflammation. Aloe Vera also, has antibacterial and antifunfal effects which helps fight infection in skin that is prone to breaking and becoming easily irritated. It is important to find an aloe vera gel that is pure and does not contain any harsh preservatives. An example of a pure aloe vera gel is the Hey Gorgeous one listed here:

Pure Unrefined Shea Butter has been shown to be more effective in treating eczema than Vaseline (S. Essengue Belibi D. Stechschulte N. Olson ). Shea butter is rich in Vitamin A & E and is rapidly absorbed by the skin providing instant hydration. Shea butter offers skin intense moisture and for this reason it is fantastic for those who suffer from eczema and psoriasis as skin should be kept well moisturised. Shea butter has anti-inflammatory properties which soothes skin and relieves itchiness. As shea butter is absorbed instantly it can offer comfort as soon as a skin condition re-appears. Apply at night time especially for overnight relief of symptoms.

Coconut Oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties which are beneficial for skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. It contains a fatty acid called lauric acid which helps reduce inflammation, fight viruses and fungal infections. Virgin Coconut Oil has been found to be more effective in treating Atopic Dermatitis than mineral oil (Mara Therese Padilla Evangelista 1, Flordeliz Abad-Casintahan, Lillian Lopez-Villafuerte). Mineral Oil is a chemical substance made from crude petroleum oil and is found in many creams and lotions for skin conditions. Mineral Oil is very often found to be contaminated with an array of toxins including 1,4 Dioxane, a known human carcinogen so, it's best to stay away from mineral oil based products. The natural alternative of Virgin Coconut Oil is a wonderful moisturiser and helps the skin by retaining moisture. Coconut oil may help skin conditions by soothing irritation, reducing inflammation and reducing the risk of the skin becoming infected. Coconut oil can be combined with shea butter for an effective treatment for eczema and psoriasis.

Tea Tree Oil has healing properties that may help with eczema and psoriasis. A study found that Tea Tree Oil was more effective in treating eczema than topical treatments of zinc oxide or ichthammol (Joanna Wallengren). Tea Tree Oil has anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties that help soothe irritation and itching. Tea tree oil has antibacterial and antiviral properties that can help prevent infection and also, reduce existing skin infections and stop them from spreading further. When choosing Tea Tree oil its best to opt for an organic oil where possible. Essential oils are extremely powerful and so, tea tree oil must be diluted with a carrier oil before applying directly to the skin. A carrier oil, such as coconut or olive oil can be used to dilute the tea tree oil and make sure to do a skin sensitivity test first as tea tree oil is very potent.

Olive Oil is another natural oil that may be used for the treatment of skin conditions such as Psorasis. Olive oil has anti-inflammatory properties and is an excellent natural moisturiser. Olive oil is high in fatty acids and vitamin E which are extremely beneficial for the skin, providing the skin with essential moisture. Olive oil not only soothes the skin but helps to remove dead skin cells too. Olive oil may help reduce inflammation in those that suffer from skin conditions. When choosing Opt for Extra Virgin Olive Oil.

These natural alternatives to chemical laden products may help with the treatment of skin conditions. Providing the skin with hydration and offering relief from symptoms, such as itching and burning. Avoiding petroleum based creams and trying natural treatments for Psoriasis and Eczema may be worth investing in for the long-term health of the skin.

References: J Reuter 1, A Jocher, J Stump, B Grossjohann, G Franke, C M Schempp