HOMEOPATHY FOR THE TREATMENT OF ECZEMA

Eczema, professionally referred to as Atopic dermatitis, is an inflammatory condition of the skin which is usually associated with symptoms of dry, cracked and inflamed skin. Those who suffer from eczema typically describe their condition as frustrating because of the constant need to scratch and use various cortisone creams to help relieve their symptoms. There are many natural alternatives and homeopathic remedies available to reduce skin flare-ups and improve over-all skin and immune system health.

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ABOUT ATOPIC DERMATITIS

Eczema is a relatively broad term given to a group of inflammatory conditions which lead to the development of dry, raised and itchy patches of skin. Eczema is typically related to an allergy of some sort, whether it be internally or externally.

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic form of eczema which is typically inflammatory in nature. Atopic dermatitis results from the immune system over-reacting to a particular allergen or irritant either inside the body or outside the body. This type of eczema usually begins within the first 6 months of life. Atopic dermatitis usually occurs in unison with two other conditions- typically asthma and hayfever.

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WHAT ARE THE COMMON SYMPTOMS OF ATOPIC DERMATITIS?

The eczematous patches typically appear in the flexor surfaces of the body- elbow creases, palms of hands and knee creases. However, in babies the patches appear on the back of the hands, elbows and face. Often times the atopic dermatitis can also present on the scalp in babies and in such instances it is referred to as Seborrheic dermatitis. The common symptoms of eczema include:

1. Dry and scaly skin
2. Discolouration of the affected areas which typically appear red in lighter skin tones and slightly purple in darker skin tones.
3. Intense itching
4. Cracks
5. Papules which may release a small amount of discharge

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HOW TO TREAT ATOPIC DERMATITIS NATURALLY

1. Probiotics:our gut flora are incredibly important in maintaining healthy levels of inflammation in our body as well as keeping our immune system in check. With this being said, if our gut flora are out of balance, there is an increase in Glutamate and a stronger reaction to different allergens.
2. Omega 3: This truly is a super-supplement which not only supports brain health, but also reduces inflammation throughout our body. It has been suggested that Omega 3 reduces levels of leukotrienes (an inflammatory compound which has been linked to eczema) in the body.
3. Reducing foods high in gluten:Gluten is a compound commonly found in foods which contain wheat. In those with various food sensitivities, gluten can lead to a T-cell immune response which will further worsen skin symptoms. Although gluten is not a direct cause of skin conditions such as eczema, various studies have shown that reducing gluten intake can improve skin symptoms as well as reduce flare-ups.
4. Vitamin D: this vitamin is really excellent in helping to regulate our immune systems and reducing inflammation by suppressing a pro-inflammatory gene known as Interleukin-10.

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HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES FOR ECZEMA

Homeopathic practitioners take into account the individuality of each case, on the basis of the mental, emotional and physical realms of disease. There are many different presentations of Eczema, with some individuals experiencing a more dry Eczema and others experiencing a more “wet” eczema. Once collecting all symptoms, the homeopath will then hand-select the best-suited remedy for each patient based on their experience with the disease.