Natural Remedies for Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis, or skin asthma, is a chronic condition that causes red, dry and irritated skin. People affected by the condition experience discomfort and itchiness that impair their day-to-day lives. It is caused by many factors including a western lifestyle, processed food, and air and environmental pollution. In addition to medication and skincare products, it is recommended to try natural remedies, too. These are considered effective in alleviating atopic symptoms as well as other skin conditions.

Natural remedies based on readily available ingredients that can help soothe the skin and relieve itchiness and dry skin:

Starch bath

Benefits: Starch is known for its ability to help heal wounds and relieve itchiness and irritation.

How is it used? Add a teaspoon of regular starch and a teaspoon of glycerin to bath water. The combination moisturizes, soothes and alleviates irritation.

Coconut oil

Benefits: Coconut oil saturates the skin with capric acid, caprylic acid and lauric acid to fight infection and to moisturize and soothe the skin.

How is it used? Gently massage coconut oil into the skin.

Oatmeal

Benefits: Rich in minerals, vitamins, folic acid, calcium, zinc, iron, potassium, essential amino acids and dietary fiber to help enrich the skin with moisture, and to prevent dry skin and discomfort.

How is it used? Soak a cup of oatmeal in water. Saturate a cotton pad or a clean cloth with the liquid and apply to the skin. Leave on for 5-10 minutes. Repeat several times a day.

Soak the oatmeal in lukewarm water to help relieve itchiness and dry skin associated with atopic dermatitis.

Honey

Benefits: Honey is known for its disinfectant and antibacterial properties and for stimulating the skin’s natural healing process.

How is it used? Apply a small amount of honey to the affected area, leave on for 30 minutes and rinse well with lukewarm water. Can repeat 3-4 times a day. Do not apply honey to open sores.

Calendula and chamomile leaves

Benefits: This duo of medicinal herbs is well-known for its anti-inflammatory, disinfectant and healing properties.

How is it used? Cover 5 dried calendula and chamomile leaves with boiling water, add a towel or cloth, and leave to soak for 10 minutes. Apply to affected areas.

Seawater

Benefits: Saltwater and minerals found in seawater are effective in treating atopic dermatitis. Saltwater has anti-inflammatory properties and boosts the immune system.

How is it used? Put Atlantic or Himalayan salt into a spray bottle. These salts contain minerals zinc, potassium and magnesium, which are good for the skin. Add lukewarm water and a small amount of plant-based oil like jojoba, coconut, tea tree or olive oil and shake well. Spray onto the skin every four hours.