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Submitted on: 12-03-2012; Answers: 2; Tagged under: Naturopathy Eczema       ✘ Report abuse
Q Hi there, I was wondering if you could suggest any effective natural (product) treatments for a dermatitis issue I have on the side of my hand? It's quite red and itchy and I've tried following the standard GP recommendations which has worked to a certain extent but it doesn't seem to be going away. Appreciate any suggestions or advice which would help to reduce the redness and stop me from itching all the time! Thank you!! Dave.

A Hello Dave. Normally I make up creams for the external problem and give the client a couple of test pots to see what is most effective. However, I have recently had a good report from a client using Dr Hauschka's IcePlant cream: http://www.drhauschka.co.nz/product/Intensive-Ice-Plant-Cream%2837624%29
Whatever you do to ease the itching should not negate the need for identifying the root of the problem. Which a good naturopath should be able to help you with.
All the best.
Sharon
Answered by: House of Health Ltd;
Answered on: 12-03-2012;
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A Hi,
There can be many causes of dermatitis and skin conditions; including contact with chemicals and substances, food intolerance/allergy, gut issues, mineral and essential fatty acid deficiencies. Contact dermatitis is the most common type of eczema, usually caused by irritation from rubbing, washing or harsh chemicals. Less often it is caused by an allergic reaction to something that touches the skin, like certain plant material, fragrance or chemicals in fabrics or skin creams. Allergic eczema usually appears 1-5 days after skin contact and can last up to 3 weeks or longer. If you suspect an allergy of some kind, an allergy test would be beneficial.

Eczema that is associated with Nervousness can occur as a result of Potassium deficiency.
Selenium is of benefit in the treatment of (atopic Eczema (most children afflicted with atopic Eczema exhibit very low Glutathione Peroxidase levels - Selenium helps to restore Glutathione Peroxidase levels in these cases) [scientific research – humans]. Silicon alleviates Eczema and also eczema can occur as a result of Sulphur or Biotin deficiency.

Some things that can benefit are:
Para Aminobenzoic Acid (PABA)
Vitamin A (25,000 - 200,000 IU per day) alleviates many cases of (atopic) Eczema [scientific research – 33% of children afflicted with atopic Dermatitis showed some improvement and further 66% showed marked improvement including resolution of dry Skin following 3 - 21 months of Vitamin A therapy].
Vitamin B2.
Vitamin B12 (1 mg per day) alleviates some (approximately 60% of) cases of (atopic) Eczema [scientific research - humans].

These Foods or Herbs Alleviate or Prevent Eczema:
Dairy Products
Yoghurt (applied topically) alleviates Eczema (due to the Lactobacillus acidophilus content of Yoghurt).

Grasses:
Green Barley (12 grams of Green Barley powder administered in 3 x 4 gram dosages per day) alleviates Eczema [scientific research - double blind studies with humans indicate that this treatment is at least partially effective in 75% of Eczema patients].
Oils - Dietary:
Fish Oils (applied topically) alleviate (the atopic form of) Eczema (due to the Eicosapentaenoic Acid content of Fish Oils).
Flax Seed Oil alleviates Eczema when the Eczema is caused by EFA deficiency (due to the Alpha-Linolenic Acid (LNA) content of Flax Seed Oil).
Olive Oil alleviates Eczema when the Eczema is caused by EFA deficiency (due to the Fatty Acids content of Olive Oil).
Oregano oil,Evening primrose oil and Hemp oil (9)

Vegetables:
Potato (applied topically) alleviates Eczema.
Rhubarb (juice) alleviates the Pain and Itching associated with Eczema (due to Anthroquinones in Rhubarb).
Oats soaked in water applied topically is soothing and healing.
Healing foods for eczema*

Healing herbs for eczema: Rue,Yellow dock,Knotweed, Golden seal,Evening primrose, Nettle,Red clover, Licorice root,Dandelion,Chamomile, Alfalfa,Cleavers, and Purslane.
(References available on request.)

Other causes can be ruled out with a thorough Naturopathic assessment. Other treatments such as homeopathy and homeobotanicals can be beneficial as well.
Answered by: Donna's Wellness Centre;
Answered on: 12-03-2012;
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