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A NATURAL TREATMENT APPROACH FOR EZCEMA

Eczema is an inflammatory condition of the skin. Dry, flaky skin appears over red inflamed areas causing intense itching and burning. The natural desire to scratch the itch causes further damage to the skin which can be emotionally frustrating for the sufferer.

The exact cause of eczema isn’t known but there are many common triggers including food allergy, emotional stress, contact with detergents, jewellery, body creams or shampoo.

Eczema is not contagious but people with eczema in their family have an increased risk of having hereditary eczema. The immune system plays a role in regulating eczema and many people with the condition also have hay fever and asthma. 6% of people will experience an episode of this difficult condition. For some it is a mild short term problem, for others the condition remains a chronic recurrent disorder that lasts throughout their life.

A common approach is to apply steroid creams topically. Naturopaths believe that it is important to treat the condition internally with a specific nutritional program.

I have 5 favourite products to recommend for this troubling problem.

1. Blackmores Bio-Zinc. Contains -Zinc, B6 and Vitamin A.  These nutrients facilitate repair and healing of weeping damaged skin. Many people with eczema are deficient in these vital skin nutrients. Take one tablet each day after breakfast. 
2. Eczema Shield – Ethical Nutrients. A clinical trail showed that the healthy bacteria Lactobacillus Rhamnosus (GC strain) reduced the symptoms of itching and weeping in people with eczema. Additionally it improves food allergies, hay fever and the symptoms of I.B.S through regulating the immune system. Take half a teaspoon each morning. (This product requires refrigeration).
3. Tea Tonic – Complexion Tea. A herbal blend combining a soothing, purifying and restorative herbs for inflamed skin. Drink 3 cups per day.
4. Thompsons Salmon Oil 1000 mg. Contains omega 3 fatty acids DHA and EPA which can assist in the regulation of the immune system which is important in the treatment of eczema. Over several weeks fish oil taken internally will generally improve skin dryness and flaking. Take 2 capsules each morning and 2 capsules each night.
5. Grahams Calendulis Plus Cream. A soothing cream with calendula and manuka honey. Apply as required to soothe inflamed skin. Generally I advise to apply to affected areas 2-4 times per day.

The above 5 supplements can be taken together for a fast- tracked improvement or a selection of any of the above can be chosen to begin a basic natural treatment program. Children’s doses need to be dosed by body weight, please contact us for appropriate doses for your child.

Lisa Archibald – Naturopath.

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