Naturopathy | Itching | Ask an Expert

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Submitted on: 20-09-2012; Answers: 1; Tagged under: Naturopathy Itching       ✘ Report abuse
Q I have an extremely itchy back. There is nothing obvious other than moles, some of which have the head scratched due to scratching. My legs have also been itchy.

A You should see your doctor about this, if you haven't already. Unexplained itching can be caused by liver damage and your doctor can easily test for this. If you do have elevated liver enzymes, herbs such as milk thistle and globe artichoke can support the liver, although obviously you should try to find the cause and treat that.

Itching is also a common reaction to many synthetic chemicals, including dyes in clothing (especially black dyes) and washing powder. Try using a natural washing powder such as Ecostore and wearing white clothes for a while - organic fabrics often are died with the same toxic dyes used for many non-organic fabrics.
You could also try not wearing cotton for a while, unless it's organic. Genetically modified cotton causes rashes in many people and much of the world's cotton is genetically modified now.

Itching could also be caused by a fungal infection, in which case a minimal sugar diet with cod liver oil to boost your immune system may help (note that cod liver oil is contraindicated with a few medicines, such as warfarin).

Topically, a 1% blend of peppermint oil in carrier oil (i.e. about 1 drop of peppermint oil per 3-4ml of carrier oil) may help to reduce the itching.

There are also herbs you can take internally, although you should see a herbalist or naturopath about these, to make sure they are not contraindicated for you. A full consultation would be best but some health food stores have a herbalist or naturopath in store who will give you a 10 minute consultation for free.
Answered by: West Auckland Massage & Natural Health;
Answered on: 20-09-2012;
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