How to Treat Eczema and Psoriasis Naturally
Beat the Itch With Inexpensive Home Remedies
Jaime A. Heidel
Eczema and psoriasis are two very common and aggravating skin conditions. Many people take pharmaceutical or over-the-counter drugs to treat the symptoms of these two conditions. These drugs can cause a wide range of side effects and they don’t get to the root of the problem. The good news is, those suffering from either condition can find relief from natural home remedies.
Causes of Eczema
A common cause of eczema is a hidden food allergy. The most common foods to cause eczema are wheat and gluten. Those suffering from eczema will want to remove all wheat and gluten products from their diet for a period of at least a week to note if symptoms improve. It is also advisable to decrease sugar intake and remove dairy products and eggs for this same period and watch for any improvement.
Causes of Psoriasis
Those who suffer with psoriasis are most likely reacting to an environmental allergy such as soaps, perfumes, lotions, cosmetics, household and workplace chemicals, pet dander and metals (such as nickel in jewelry). Finding the source of the allergic reaction might prove tricky at first. The best thing to do is replace all of the household chemicals with natural, organic cleaners and switch from conventional soap, lotions and cosmetics to natural brands. Also, switch to a natural laundry detergent. This way, if the problem persists, you’ve narrowed it down to either your pet or your jewelry.
Treating Eczema and Psoriasis Naturally
Though the allergic triggers for eczema and psoriasis differ, their treatments are relatively similar. Once the allergic triggers have been eliminated, treatment can begin.
Probiotics
Though most people are not aware of this, gut and skin health and very closely linked. This is because the majority of the immune system is located in the gut. Adding a good probiotic supplement to the diet will increase good bacteria in the gut and crowd out bacteria and viruses. Probiotics will also balance the immune system and encourage the body to heal naturally.
Omega 3
In addition to adding a probiotic, it is important to increase the intake of omega-3 fatty acids. These can be found in wild-caught fish such as salmon, mackerel and herring. If you do not like fish or are a vegetarian, add milled flax seed and walnuts to your diet. Adding an omega-3 supplement to the diet may also be beneficial.
Vitamin D
It is also recommended that anybody suffering from a chronic autoimmune condition such as eczema or psoriasis get their vitamin D levels checked by blood test. Vitamin D deficiency is quite common and has been closely linked to autoimmune disease. The best source of natural vitamin D is sunshine. Despite the rumours, sunshine is not bad for you. Ten to fifteen minutes a day is all that is needed to boost flagging vitamin D levels. A healthcare provider may recommend a dietary supplement of 1,000 – 2,000 IUs (international units) to regulate these levels. It is important to get blood vitamin D levels checked regularly to be sure the accurate dose is given.
Topical Treatments
Those suffering with eczema or psoriasis can also benefit from a sea salt compress. Purchase unrefined large grain sea salts and place them on a hand towel, fold it and run under warm water. Open up the towel to expose the salts and place it on the affected area. This will work to dry out the rash and soothe the itch. Immersion in an Epsom salt bath can also be beneficial providing you are not pregnant, diabetic or allergic to sulfur. Calendula is a natural lotion that can be used directly on the affected skin for relief of itching and inflammation. Topical vitamin E oil can also be used to soothe itch, heal broken skin and prevent infection.
The natural treatments for eczema and psoriasis mentioned above may not only stop the itch but eliminate the cause.
Health Disclaimer. Copyright ©2010-2022. Published with permission. First published in November 2010, last updated August 2022.
Jaime A. Heidel is a professional freelance writer with a passion for natural health. She has years of writing experience and has contributed to Natural Awakenings magazine.
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