Eczema, also referred to as atopic dermatitis, is a well-known skin condition that causes itchy, inflamed, and red patches of skin. It can be quite uncomfortable, and the itchiness can drive you crazy.
Eczema commonly occurs in babies or young children, but adults can develop it too. I’ve developed eczema as an adult, and I have had it ever since. In this post I will be exploring the top essential oils for eczema. I have not tried all of them myself, except for coconut oil. But I am interested in the subject and have researched the topic to learn more. Eczema is not something that simply disappears. It is something that you learn to live with. But it helps to know what the triggers are to avoid any flare-ups.
What is the primary cause of eczema?
Some conditions or substances can lead to eczema flare-ups and are known as trigger factors. Irritants like detergents or soaps, skin infections, dry skin, wool, low humidity, sweating, heat, or emotional stress are all contributing factors to eczema. Also, allergens like pollen, certain foods, dust mites, and moulds are trigger factors.
7 Top essential oils for eczema
If you have eczema and nothing you have tried seems to work, there are other more natural alternatives that you can try. In addition to the treatments your physician prescribes, you can also use essential oils as complementary therapy. Essential oils are concentrated liquids that are derived from flowers, fruits, and plants and are used topically or in aromatherapy. For topical use, they must be diluted with a carrier oil like coconut oil, almond oi, avocado oil, etc.
Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is derived from the leaves of a tea tree plant and is commonly used for conditions that include head lice, athlete’s foot, insect bites, and nail fungus. Research reveals that tea tree oil has been effective for treating contact dermatitis. But there is limited research that suggests the oil is useful for topically treating eczema. Please keep in mind: never swallow the oil. When the oil is ingested it can lead to loss of muscle coordination and confusion. This oil is potent and must be diluted with a carrier oil like sweet almond oil, coconut oil, argan oil, etc, before applying it to your skin.
Peppermint oil
Peppermint oil is linked to various health benefits like calming nausea and providing relief for indigestion. Some individuals also apply it topically to offer relief for itching. This is an incredibly concentrated oil and must be diluted with a carrier oil before use. Never use it on your face and avoid applying it to the chest of infants or young kids, since it can be toxic when they inhale it. Speak to your physician before using it for eczema.
Calendula oil
Some studies have revealed that calendula has anti-inflammatory benefits when applied to your skin and can reduce pain and swelling. Do a skin patch test and speak with your physician before applying it for eczema.
Borage oil
Some studies have shown that using borage oil provided a soothing effect on eczema-prone skin. The oil contains beneficial fatty acids that your body converts into a hormone-like substance that has anti-inflammatory effects. Some individuals noticed an improvement of skin inflammation but there are contradictory study results on the subject. More research is required for proving the effectiveness for lowering eczema symptoms.
Other botanical oils – Used as carrier and essential oils
These oils can be used as essential oils and carrier oils and can help with providing relief for eczema.
Jojoba oil
Jojoba oil is made with the seeds of the jojoba plant and is a common ingredient in many body care products like lotions, face cleansers, and shampoos. Some studies suggest that the oil contains anti-inflammatory components that can be used for soothing irritated skin. Jojoba oil is also an excellent skin moisturiser and closely mimics human sebum which is an oily substance secreted by hair and skin.
Coconut oil
This is one of my favorite essential oils due to its many benefits. It can be used as a cooking oil or a topical remedy. Coconut oil contains antimicrobial components which can lower the risk of skin infection, plus it is anti-inflammatory which means you can apply it directly on cracked and dry skin which is caused by inflammation. Just keep in mind that some individuals are allergic to coconut oil. Speak to your physician first before using it topically.
Sunflower seed oil
Sunflower seed oil is another excellent carrier oil with anti-inflammatory properties. It helps with skin hydration and improving dryness. Sunflower seed oil is rich in vitamin E which can lower signs of skin inflammation which makes it useful for eczema-prone skin. More research on the subject is needed, however.
Conclusion
We hope you have found this post about the top essential oils for eczema helpful. Some of the above-mentioned oils are associated with lowering inflammation and improving moisture and that is why they are considered to potentially provide relief for eczema-prone skin. But more research is required. Always use essential oils with caution due to their potent nature. They can sometimes cause an allergic reaction or skin irritation. Always consult with your doctor before trying any new alternative skin remedies.
Be the first to reply