Natural remedies for eczema

There are a growing number of children suffering from eczema which can vary in severity from mild itching to major discomfort accompanied by broken skin and bleeding. There are a few different types of eczema and if your child is suffering from any skin complaint, it would be advisable to consult a doctor. There are however a number of actions or natural remedies that are thought to help prevent outbreaks or alleviate symptoms.

Avoid harsh wash products- products containing sodium  can dry and irritate the skin. Milder natural and organic alternatives are much gentler on babies and children’s skin.

Choose organic cotton or bamboo clothes - Organic clothes do not have any chemical or pesticide residues making them less likely to irritate the skin. Bamboo fibres are particularly soft against the skin which is thought to help reduce eczema in those prone to outbreaks.

Alternatives to detergents - residues of detergents in clothes can be another source of irritation especially to eczema prone skin. Washing clothes in a mild detergent or using a completely natural alternative to detergents should also help.

Plant extracts- there are a number of plant extracts which are though to help eczema. Creams containing chickweed, Aloe Vera and Calendula are all recognised for their soothing and healing properties. You should always check first that they are suitable for use on children or babies though.

Keeping finger nails short should also help to reduce the itch scratch cycle and ensuring that a child does not get too hot is also important in reducing and preventing eczema.