What is the best essential oil for eczema. 15 Best Natural and Essential Oils To Heal Eczema
What is the best essential oil for eczema. The best essential oils for treating eczema include lavender, tea tree, frankincense, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, and chamomile oils.
Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender essential oil is a go-to remedy for eczema due to its acclaimed antiseptic and soothing properties. The complex mixture of phytochemicals present in lavender oil activates the ’emotional brain’ to relieve stress and anxiety. Being an amazing sleep aid, the oil is great to use at nighttime when itch and pain make you an insomniac.
Tea Tree Essential Oil
Tea tree oil (TTO) is a powerful essential oil for eczema, as it can alleviate irritation, swelling, and redness, fight off viruses, and prevent inflammation. Derived from the foliage of Melaleuca alternifolia, tea tree oil contains over 100 different terpenes, especially terpinen-4-ol and alpha-terpineol, that work synergistically against pathogens. TTO is also great in purifying the air, which can help prevent allergens from worsening eczema flare-ups and itching.
Frankincense Essential Oil
Frankincense essential oil, extracted from the resin inside the Boswellia tree, has rejuvenating properties that naturally heal wounds and scars, and improve skin tone, making it ideal for repairing eczema-damaged skin. It has a sedative sweet, spicy, resinous scent with a slightly camphoraceous top note that is great for calming the senses. In addition, this oil has anti-inflammatory and astringent properties.
Sandalwood Oil
Sandalwood oil is widely accepted for its moisturizing, soothing, anti-inflammatory and anti-itching properties, making it a stellar essential oil for eczema. A 2014 study even revealed that sandalwood oil can mimic painkillers like ibuprofen without causing side effects, providing a great remedy for painful eczema sores.
Bergamot Essential Oil
Bergamot essential oil, obtained from the Citrus bergamia, has the ability to combat inflammation, heal inflamed skin, add elasticity, regulate sebum secretion, and even out skin tone, all of which can help heal eczema and other skin problems. It is also proven to be an excellent antidepressant in treating eczema-related stress. However, it’s important to use bergamot oil in the evenings or at night, as it contains furanocoumarins that can cause sunlight-induced skin irritation.
Geranium Essential Oil
Geranium essential oil, known for its astringent, antiseptic, styptic, deodorant, and hemostatic properties, has also earned accolades in eczema treatment. It effectively balances sebum secretion and soothes dry, scarred skin, making it a great choice for eczema.
Helichrysum Essential Oil
Helichrysum Essential Oil, with its cytophylactic (new cell generation) and cicatrisant (skin healing) properties, can reduce eczema scars. Its active ingredient arzanol has incredible anti-inflammatory properties, which can speed up the healing process. The oil can even reduce irritation and prevent dehydration and cracking, thanks to its moisture-locking ability. Among the 500 different Helichrysum species, the ‘italicum’ species has the most therapeutic properties.
Chamomile Essential Oil
Soothing to both the skin and the senses, chamomile essential oil is a boon for anyone suffering from eczema. While both German and Roman Chamomile essential oils are great for calming and soothing eczema, Roman chamomile oil is especially effective for calming young children’s irritated skin.
Other Essential Oils for Eczema
In addition to the oils mentioned above, other essential oils that can be effective in treating eczema include peppermint oil, which can provide cooling relief, and rosemary oil, which has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. Coconut oil and jojoba oil are also often used as carrier oils to dilute and enhance the effects of these essential oils.
When using essential oils for eczema, it’s important to dilute them in a carrier oil before applying to the skin, as they can be very potent. It’s also a good idea to do a patch test first to check for any skin sensitivity. With the right essential oils and proper application, you can find natural relief for your eczema symptoms.
15 Best Natural and Essential Oils To Heal Eczema
For centuries, people have been struggling with the frustrating rash, dryness, flaking skin, redness, and itching associated with eczema or dermatitis. While there’s currently no cure for eczema, there are many natural remedies that may reduce the flare-ups; one of these is essential oils.
For the uninitiated, essential oils are the highly concentrated form of natural oils distilled from the roots, stems, leaves, flowers, or fruits of a plant. These oils have been used throughout history for their unmatchable medicinal values. In fact, they have earned accolades in reducing itching, irritation, and inflammation caused by eczema.
While many essential oils meet ‘eczema remedy’ criteria, here are 15 essential oils that are extremely powerful.
15 Essential and Natural Oils For Eczema
1. Lavender Essential Oil
It is no secret what lavender essential oil can do to the body and mind, which is why it is the go-to essential oil for eczema. With the acclaimed antiseptic and soothing properties, lavender oil addresses the eczema flare-ups from the inside out.
It doesn’t stop there, though. The complex mixture of phytochemicals present activates the ‘emotional brain’ to relieve stress and anxiety. Being an amazing sleep aid, the oil is great to use at nighttime when itch and pain make you an insomniac.
2. Tea Tree Essential Oil
Alleviating the irritation, swelling, and redness, fighting off the viruses, preventing inflammation – you name it, tea tree oil (TTO) does it all. Derived from the foliage of Melaleuca alternifolia, tea tree oil contains over 100 different terpenes – especially, terpinen-4-ol and alpha-terpineol – that work synergistically against pathogens.
More than just another essential oil for eczema, TTO is also great in purifying the air, just what is needed to prevent allergens from worsening the flare-ups and itching.
3. Frankincense Essential Oil
Frankincense essential oil, which has rejuvenating properties, is extracted from the resin inside the Boswellia tree. It naturally heals wounds and scars and improves skin tone hence ideal for repairing eczema-damaged skin. It has a sedative sweet, spicy, resinous scent with a slightly camphoraceous top note that is great for calming the senses. In addition, this lovely oil has anti-inflammatory and astringent properties.
4. Sandalwood oil
Obviously, no list of essential oil for eczema would be complete without sandalwood oil— a stellar oil that’s widely accepted for its moisturizing, soothing, anti-inflammatory and anti-itching properties. Though it has all components to calm dry, irritating, and itchy skin from an eczema flare up, a patch test is highly recommended.
A 2014 study even revealed that sandalwood oil can mimic painkillers like ibuprofen without causing side effects – a great remedy for painful sores.
5. Bergamot Essential Oil
This oil is obtained from the Citrus bergamia and has the ability to combat inflammation, heal the inflamed skin, add elasticity, regulate sebum secretion, and eves out the skin tone. In doing so, Bergamot essential oil heals eczema and other skin problems. It is also proven to be an excellent antidepressant in treating eczema related stress.
Word of caution: Bergamot essential oil contains furanocoumarins – the compound responsible for sunlight-induced skin irritation. Hence use it in the evenings or at night.
6. Geranium Essential Oil
Who knew one of the most reputable essential oils for eczema was in our garden all along? Known for its astringent, antiseptic, styptic, deodorant, hemostatic, vermifuge properties, the sweet-smelling geranium essential oil has earned accolades in eczema treatment, too. Best of all, it effectively balances the sebum secretion and soothes the dry, scarred skin.
7. Helichrysum Essential Oil
With plenty of cytophylactic (new cell generation), and cicatrisant (skin healing) properties, Helichrysum Essential Oil reduces eczema scars. Since the active ingredient arzanol has incredible anti-inflammatory properties, the oil speeds up the healing process.
The oil can even reduce irritation and prevent dehydration and cracking, thanks to its moisture-locking ability. In fact, this oil is also said to be effective in treating cellulite acne, dilated pores, stretch marks, and dark circles. Barring its hefty price tag, this oil stands out for its healing ability.
Note: The ‘italicum’ species has the most therapeutic properties among the 500 different Helichrysum species.
8. Chamomile Essential Oil
Soothing to both the skin and the senses, chamomile essential oil is a boon for anyone suffering from eczema. While both German and Roman Chamomile essential oils are great for calming and soothing eczema, Roman chamomile oil is especially effective for calming young children’s irritated skin.
German chamomile oil contains chamazulene the anti-inflammatory compound that calms dry and irritated skin, wards off infections, and promotes regeneration of damaged tissues from inside out. Aside from its antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties, German chamomile oil provides relief from sore muscles, migraine, and arthritis.
9. Juniper Essential Oil
Juniper essential oil is known for its cleansing and stress relieving effects. The anti-inflammatory compounds present in the oil may treat not only the dry, itchy, inflamed skin patches of eczema but may also heal the skin faster and keeps the skin protected from further infections. Juniper oil is equally potent enough to reduce the appearance of eczema scars and even acne.
Word of caution: Usage of pure form is not recommended. For topical application, always mix juniper oil with a carrier oil in a 1:1 ratio. Do not use if you are pregnant or nursing.
10. Tamanu Oil
Enriched with moisturizing omega-6 and 9 fatty acids and skin rebuilding friedelin, canopyllic acid and canophyllol, xanthones, and coumarins, Tamanu oil is really the heart of Melanesian skincare treatment. Various benefits to eczema affected skin can be observed when using Tamanu essential oil.
It not only can promote wound healing and scar reduction, but it also reduces swelling and pain, rebalances moisture level, and restores skin elasticity. You can also use tamanu oil to protect skin from UV radiations.
11. Patchouli Essential Oil
Patchouli essential oil is known to have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. This oil may help alleviate the irritation and itchiness associated with eczema. It also has antiseptic properties which prevent the affected areas from getting infected.
In addition to moisturizing and softening the skin, it also calms the mind and reduces anxiety, depression, and stress that may worsen eczema. Diluting it with coconut oil, almond or jojoba oil is recommended for topical application.
12. Neroli Essential Oil
Known for increasing skin elasticity, stimulating cell rejuvenation, and speeding up scar healing, Neroli oil’s glory dates back to time immemorial. This oil helps address skin itching, irritation, and pain associated with eczema thanks to its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and calming action.
In addition, its sweet and spicy fragrance reduces stress and uplifts the mood. Studies also show that inhaling Neroli oil might reduce the severity of menstrual cramps and PMS symptoms – added bonus!
13. Thyme Essential Oil
If pain, swelling, redness, never-ending inflammations are what that is bothering you, look no further. Thyme essential oil is a powerhouse of antiseptic and anti-inflammatory compounds to keep your skin free from inflammation. When put to the research, a 2012 study revealed the capacity of 3% thyme essential oil in treating eczema-like lesions.
Thyme has an organic compound called carvacrol, which defends pain, swelling, infections, and inflammations naturally. In fact, the compound targets COX-2 – the key mediator involved in the inflammatory pathways in the body. For optimum results, it’s recommended to dilute thyme essential oil in water or a water-based emulsion before application.
14. Hyssop Essential Oil
Hyssop essential oil has anti-inflammatory properties that help heal the inflamed skin in eczema patients. It is also known to have astringent, antiviral, and anti-bacterial properties that help kill irritants and pathogens that may enter the skin. The terpenes compounds like Eucalyptol, pinene, myrene etc boost the growth of new cells in addition to lightening the scars and dark spots on the skin.
For use, apply a mixture of hyssop essential oil and carrier oil in 2:3 ratio on to the affected areas.
15. Benzoin Essential Oil
Eczema often causes sores or wounds. These can be treated with the vulnerary (wound protecting) properties of benzoin essential oil. Because of the vanilla aldehydes present it the oil, it is often suggested as a mood lifter, a deodorant or a respiratory ailment. Benzoin is great for promoting tissue renewal and healing, fighting the redness, itching, irritation, and warding off the pain.
Best ways to use essential oils for Eczema
Nourishing Bath: Add 1-2% dilutions to a warm bath and soak for 20 -30 minutes.
Cooling compress: Add 2 drops of essential oil to a bowl of water, stir well, and sock a soft cotton towel in it. Squeeze it and pat the towel on affected areas to reduce itching or irritation.
Essential oil spray: Mix essential oil and carrier oil in the ratio of 2:1 and mix with water taken in a spray bottle.
Soothing Lotion: Add few drops of essential oil to Shea butter or moisturizing lotion.
Massage Oil: Dilute the essential oil with the carrier and gently massage onto the affected area.
Final Thoughts
The herbaceous essential oils, when used properly, are effective remedies to soothe and heal eczema. But remember that some oils may not work for everyone due to different skin properties, inflammation levels, dilution ratio etc.
The 6 Best Essential Oils For Eczema
While there is no cure for eczema, or atopic dermatitis, there are things that you can do at home to potentially help with some of the symptoms. The best essential oils for eczema “may improve hydration; moisturize, soothe, and calm the skin; and reduce inflammation and itching,” Alina G. Bridges, DO and dermatologist at the Mayo Clinic, told Bustle in an interview.
How do I use essential oils?
According to Dr. Bridges, you should definitely not take an essential oil straight from the bottle and rub it onto your skin. Instead, dilute the essential oil in a carrier oil (she recommends coconut oil, sunflower oil, sesame oil, almond oil, jojoba oil, or argan oil). After the essential oil is diluted, she noted, “It can be applied to the skin, added to a bath, or diffused into the air for aromatherapy.” You can also add essential oils to a cream (Dr. Bridges recommends shea butter) and rub it into your skin.
Before using any essential oil for the first time, though, Dr. Bridges recommends testing it out: Apply a small amount with a cotton swab to the inner arm and look for signs of a reaction like redness, itching, burning, or discomfort.
How do I know which essential oils to use?
When picking out essential oils, you should always look for ones in glass bottles (never plastic because oils can actually dissolve the plastic which will contaminate the oil). You’ll also want to avoid buying essential oils that have any additives or preservatives, or have already been diluted.
Now, it’s important to know that you shouldn’t just use any essential oils and expect to see improvement in your eczema. Below you’ll find six essential oils to consider.
1
Tea Tree Oil
How tea tree can help: It is antimicrobial (meaning it can fight infection-causing germs), anti-inflammatory (meaning it can help lessen irritation), and antifungal (meaning it can help reduce itching), among other benefits.
This 100% pure tea tree oil bottle from Maple Holistics has no additives or preservatives. It comes in a glass bottle, so you don’t have to worry about plastic ruining the essential oil.
What Amazon reviewers are saying: “It seems to help with the inflammation that can occur from time to time. I’m glad I looked into more natural ways to help with my eczema.”
2
Peppermint Oil
How peppermint can help: It may help to alleviate itching (but Dr. Bridges recommended to not use it on the face or on the chest of infants and young kids because it can be irritating).
With more than 12,800 reviews and a 4.3-star rating, customers back up that this peppermint essential oil from Artizen is effective (and smells great, too). It has no additives or preservatives, is undilluted, and comes in a glass bottle.
What Amazon reviewers are saying: “I love the Artizen Peppermint Essential Oil and frequently add a few drops of it to my non-fragrant hair and scalp oil. Massaging the mixture into my dry scalp during winter months immediately relieves itching, while providing an invigorating tingling sensation.”
3
Calendula Oil
How calendula can help: “Some studies have demonstrated that this oil has anti-inflammatory properties and can reduce swelling and pain,” noted Dr. Bridges. She also said that this essential oil can also help to hydrate, calm, and soothe your skin.
Calendula oil is made from marigold flowers and this pick from Aromatika is a good one. It leaves out additives and preservatives, is undiluted, and comes in a glass bottle.
What Amazon reviewers are saying: “Very good oil. Great aroma. Will use with carrier oil.”
4
Eucalyptus Oil
How eucalyptus can help: Dr. Bridges noted that eucalyptus oil has both has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.
This 100% pure eucalyptus essential oil from Now has no additives or preservatives, is undiluted, and comes in a glass bottle.
What Amazon reviewers are saying: “Use this for skin, my diffuser, sprays, etc. Love it. This brand is consistently good.”
5
Lavender Oil
How lavender can help: “It has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. Good for patients with sensitive skin,” said Dr. Bridges.
There’s something about lavender essential oil that is just so soothing, and this pick from Plant Therapy is no different. It comes in a glass bottle, is undiluted, and is even organic.
What Amazon reviewers are saying: “I’m a big fan of Plant Therapy Essential Oils and love that they offer organic oils. Lavender is a must have oil in my household and this is the real deal! It does have a little bit more of a medicinal (strong) lavender smell than some other lesser quality oils I have used but it is more effective than those brands. I highly recommend this and other Plant Therapy Oils.”
6
Chamomile Oil
How chamomile can help: It hydrates, calms, and soothes the skin, and also is anti-inflammatory.
With more than 13,000 reviews on Amazon and a 4.3-star rating, you can trust that this pure chamomile essential oil from Artizen is the real deal. It comes in a glass bottle and is undiluted without additives.
What Amazon reviewers are saying: “Very relaxing and has calmed my skin down when I mix it with jojoba.”
Bustle may receive a portion of sales from products purchased from this article, which was created independently from Bustle’s editorial and sales departments.
Expert:
Alina G. Bridges, DO and dermatologist at the Mayo Clinic
Eczema and Essential Oils: A Smart Mix?
If you have eczema and the dry, sensitive, itchy, reddened skin it can cause, you may wonder whether essential oils can help ease your symptoms. These oils are a mix of compounds taken from fragrant flowers, bark, leaves, or fruit of different plants.
Essential oil makers often market them for a range of health benefits from stress relief to clearer skin. There’s no solid scientific evidence, however, that they can improve symptoms of eczema.
What’s more, essential oils can irritate skin and trigger allergic reactions. This can happen to anyone who uses them, but people with eczema are particularly prone to these problems.
Why Eczema and Essential Oils Are a Poor Mix
There are several reasons people with eczema should skip essential oils:
- Ingredients may vary. They’re usually made through a steam distillation process that uses heat and chemicals to extract their scent and other properties. The result is a highly concentrated liquid mix of chemicals that can include terpenes, aldehydes, alcohols, esters, ethers, ketones, and more.
- They’re unregulated. In addition, the FDA places most of these products in the same category as cosmetics, which means they don’t regulate quality or advertising claims. There’s no way to tell, for example, if the oils you buy were made from plants treated with pesticides or contain only the ingredients listed on the label.
- They raise your risk of skin irritation. Your skin is even more likely to react when you have eczema. That’s because the inflammation it causes disturbs and can leave tiny breaks in your skin barrier. This makes it easier for your skin to absorb the irritants and allergens in essential oils.
If you have eczema you shouldn’t use essential oils in any form. They can cause skin reactions even when you mix small amounts with a milder oil, add a few drops to your bath water, or use products that list them as ingredients.
You should also avoid diffusers that release their scent — and other compounds — into the air you breathe. The airborne particles can cause skin reactions and other symptoms in people who are sensitive to them.
There are plant oils that are safer — and potentially beneficial — for people with eczema, however.
Plants Oils to Try When You Have Eczema
Some plant oils are high in beneficial fatty acids, such as linoleic acid, that can help your skin repair its natural barrier. To avoid skin irritation, you need to choose cold-pressed, unrefined oils. This means they’re made without the addition of heat or chemicals.
Along with skin barrier repair, two cold-pressed plant oils may have extra benefits for people with eczema.
You can try:
- Cold-pressed coconut oil: This oil contains a fatty acid called monolaurin that may help control Staphylococcus aureus, a bacteria that lives on everyone’s skin. People with eczema often have more staph on their skin than those without the condition. If these bacteria multiply out of control, they can cause serious infections. A study of coconut oil in people with eczema showed it reduced staph on the skin by 50%.
- Cold-pressed sunflower seed oil: This oil may calm skin inflammation in people with eczema. It also may encourage your skin to make more ceramides, fats that help keep it smooth and soft.
How to use coconut and sunflower seed oil
To get skin benefits from coconut or sunflower seed oil, apply a cold-pressed product to your skin after you bathe. Then layer your favorite moisturizer on top. This helps seal in the oil as well as the moisture from your bath or shower.
Coconut oil may be in solid form at room temperature. If so, warm it in your hands so it softens before you apply it to your skin. If you’re acne-prone, you probably shouldn’t use coconut oil on your breakout areas. It can clog pores and cause acne flares.
Not all natural plant oils are good for your skin. Some have high levels of fatty acids that can irritate your skin, such as the oleic acids found in olive oil. It’s best to check with your dermatologist before you apply any plant oil to your skin.
Love your skin, these are the best for eczema
Dry, itchy, sensitive and inflamed skin. These are just a few symptoms of eczema, a skin condition that can turn your best day into a stressful one. Worrying about how to alleviate eczema without side effects is a concern with many answers. Thanks to Mother Nature, there are natural remedies to help improve this skin condition. Let’s look at the best essential oils for eczema.
Essential oils 101
As with all other skin care concerns, there is a multi-million dollar industry behind easing your eczema symptoms. Going natural with the power of essential oils may be helpful as you navigate the aisles of options. These natural oils are popular for providing pain relief, reducing inflammation and reducing stress, among other things.
You can find these natural oils extracted from plants through distillation or expression. You’ll find essential oils commonly used in aromatherapy as well as cosmetics, soaps, and perfumes.
Essential oils have been used for centuries for a wide variety of health concerns such as disinfecting wounds and soothing sensitive skin. They are known to have medicinal qualities that heal infections when applied to affected areas.
We’ve researched the top 5 essential oils for eczema so you can stock your bathroom vanity and begin healing right away. One drop at a time and one day at a time, your skin is waiting for luxury. Tea tree oil, lavender oil, chamomile oil, thyme oil and lemon oil can offer just that.
Tea tree essential oil
This 100% pure natural oil option is a powerful resource in combating eczema. Native to Australia, this plant extract is antiseptic, anti-fungal, antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it an ideal option for treating the swelling and skin irritation that comes with eczema.
Tea tree oil helps relieve itchiness as well as soothes the skin. Its other popular beauty uses include treating acne, nourishing your hair and treating conditions such as lice and athlete’s foot. Tea tree oil is perfect for easing the pain of eczema.
Lavender essential oil
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Lavender oil is known for its light fragrant smell and calming properties. It’s also good for your skin, as it helps to keep your skin clear from impurities. Lavender oil has all the properties of tea tree oil, with antimicrobial and serves as an antidepressant.
It can help reduce the itching, swelling and redness that eczema causes. Since it is used for relieving pain and relaxing the body, lavender oil is an ideal essential oil for a combined effect of instant relief and spa-like relaxation.
Chamomile essential oil
Everyone’s favorite bedtime tea can be your new favorite essential oil as well. Chamomile, like lavender, has a calming effect that soothes the skin. Chamomile oil helps reduce dry skin by adding moisture back into it. It promotes better skin health, it is commonly used to treat eczema as well as other skin issues that are slow-healing and is used in many skincare products.
Thyme essential oil
We best know thyme as a spice in our food. But as an essential oil, thyme has many benefits, including fighting bacteria. Thyme has many of the same properties of the previously mentioned essential oils.
Additionally, thyme also contains an organic compound that acts as a natural defense against infection, swelling, pain and inflammation. Research has shown that essential oils extracted from thyme help to suppress enzymes that cause inflammation and pain. This makes it a good essential oil to have for treating eczema.
Lemon essential oil
Lemon oil has many antioxidant, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. You can use this oil as an antiseptic, to cleanse the skin and to get rid of infection. Enriched with Vitamin C, lemon oil stimulates the production of white blood cells, which helps the immune system fight infection.
These 5 essential oils for eczema are the best treatment options thanks to their multitasking approach and anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. By adding these essential oils to your daily regimen, you’ll be ahead of your ailment and enjoy some extra benefits of the oils’ healing properties.
When using any essential oil, always dilute with a carrier oil. You can use oils such as as coconut oil, jojoba oil or almond oil. These carrier oils provide added benefits to your health. You can choose to use carrier oils as fragrant salves or as additions to your nightly baths. Either way, these essential oils will can provide you with ideal natural options for a more relaxing and soothing day.
Make sure you avoid these 10 dangers when you use essential oils:
What are your favorite essential oils for eczema or for other skin conditions?
Tell us in the comments section all about which ones you keep stocked!
What topics related to skin health would you like to see us research?
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The Best Essential Oil for Eczema and Dry Skin
The rash, the dryness, the flaking skin, the bumps, the peeling, the redness, the itching – these are all uncomfortable, painful, and exceedingly frustrating symptoms of the very common skin condition eczema.
And if that severe itching and sensitive raw skin weren’t bad enough, you also have to deal with the embarrassment of having red patches, cracks, scales, and swelling on your body. On top of it all, you’re probably also exhausted from the itch and burn keeping you awake at night.
With over 3 million cases of eczema a year, and many of them in children, you or your child(ren) are not alone in suffering, but you are undoubtedly fed up, and conventional treatments may not feel like the best skin saviors (and they’re not – we’ll learn why in a minute!).
There’s hope for you to feel better: while eczema may not have a cure, there are many safe and all-natural solutions that provide real symptom relief and help heal your skin. One of these are essential oils.
I’m here to share with you the best essential oil for eczema – including essential oils for baby eczema – as well as multiple carrier oil options that will help to heal and add proper moisture. Let’s see just how the power of essential oils can calm the itch and heal your skin.
Why You Have Eczema
At the end of the day, nobody is entirely sure why you have eczema. There’s no singular definitive cause. The good news is, however, medical professionals actually know quite a bit about this skin condition – and this information can give you some clues as to why you’re left itching!
The National Eczema Association says the eczema equation is most likely:
Your genes + a trigger = eczema
So first – your genes. In an eczema-free body, the skin protects you from anything harmful like bacteria or allergens. It should also keep in the proper amount of moisture. There’s a genetic component in those with eczema that leaves your skin unable to accomplish these essential tasks fully, and it runs in families. While genetics does play a role, don’t hang your hat on that. There are certain lifestyle factors that actually can trigger the expression of those “eczema” genes as we’ll review below.
Immune System Issues: Anyone with an immune system dysfunction or super high inflammation may end up with eczema. In fact, people with overly reactive immune systems tend to have eczema much more than others. Your immune system could be in a “hyper-active” state from exposures to environmental toxins (like conventional laundry detergent and personal care products that aggravate the skin) or things that you’re eating (see below).
Gut Health: There’s also a very strong correlation between skin issues and your gut. Remember, your gut is home to a large majority of your immune system. When your gut is unhealthy or “leaky,” so is the rest of your body – including your skin. Interestingly enough, maternal gut health may lead to a reduced risk of eczema in children, so take your probiotics while you’re pregnant and nursing. Many people also experience eczema because of inflammation in the gut caused by dairy, gluten, soy or other processed foods and preservatives.
Dry Skin: If your skin is super dry, your chances of flaring up are much higher. So, if you live in a drier climate this applies to you. Fortunately, I have some great information below on how to combine natural moisturizers with the best essential oil for eczema, so this should no longer be a problem for you.
Food Allergies: Though the eczema is not an allergic reaction itself, having an allergic reaction in other ways can trigger an eczema flare-up. This ties back to gut health as we previously mentioned. Food allergies are a big one. This is especially true in children, and relates back to gut health too. If your kids are dealing with eczema, try cutting out dairy and gluten first. Often times this will drastically improve the issue or heal it entirely.
Products: Harsh and chemical-laden toiletry, beauty, or cleaning products can often bring on an eczema flare-up or exacerbate one that’s already in progress (yet another reason to learn more about the best essential oil for eczema!). Anything labeled “antibacterial” is probably a problem. Products like this deplete good bacteria on the skin which is important for your microbiome and healthy immune system function.
Stress: Emotional stress can lead to a flare-up, which becomes an unfortunate cycle. You’re stressed, so your eczema gets worse. Then you stress more about the aggravated eczema, and it continues to get worse. Stress relief techniques are essential to end the cycle.
Water: Too much water exposure – like a long pool day or a lingering bath – may make your eczema worse. Don’t stay in the shower too long.
Cigarettes: Smoke can be enough of an irritant to worsen eczema. If you or your child is suffering, you must quit smoking immediately.
Why Go Natural for Eczema
Even when you greatly limit possible eczema triggers, you still may not find full relief since there is no real cure for eczema. This means nobody – doctors and wellness practitioners included – has the miracle treatment to completely rid you of your itch, pain, and swelling forever.
So beyond making those lifestyle changes that can reduce and even prevent flare-ups (like boosting gut health, always moisturizing after your bath, or limiting your stress), the only other solution you have left is using something to treat the symptoms and soothe the skin.
There are many “conventional” eczema home treatment products available to you, but many of them are anything but healthy… and as we will see, some aren’t helpful.
Here’s a rundown:
- While calamine itself is not harmful for you, many companies add extra ingredients like parabens or phthalates in their lotion mixtures that could cause endocrine disruption and even cancer.
- Over-the-counter Benadryl is often used to calm the itching, but it is unsustainable for daily use as it makes you tired enough that it is not safe to drive a car or operate any sort of machinery.Not to mention, taking a medication daily for eczema is just not ideal or practical.
- Non-prescription steroid creams like hydrocortisone can be risky and they don’t really work. First, they are just a band-aid for eczema symptoms and once you stop using it the eczema is usually worse than it was before. It can also damage skin cells leading to thinning skin that bruises more easily. The body can also get so adapted to the steroids that you just need more and more to get the same effect that you did before. Plus, hydrocortisone has been connected with suppressing adrenal glands as well as your body’s natural steroids.
- You may think something rich like a Vaseline or mineral oil based ointment would give your dry skin the refreshment it needs, but these choices actually make eczema worse. They sit on top of the skin and essentially suffocate it – it won’t be able to breathe.
- Then there’s the corticosteroids your doctor may prescribe. While they may help your symptoms, both long-term and short-term negative side effects from corticosteroids have been well documented in health journals.
When we turn to all-natural solutions instead, like the best essential oil for eczema, we are using ingredients that actually help the problem without harming us in any other way.
Best Essential Oil for Eczema
Now we get to the good stuff: 8 essential oils that will help you with your eczema. While the ideal solution is to combine a few of these, I’m going to break each one down and share their unique benefits. This way you can discover which you’d like to try.
Lavender
Lavender oil is the ultimate soother – it soothes our mental health just as much as it soothes our physical health, which is why it is the best essential oil for eczema.
Not only is it going to calm the irritation, redness, and itching, but it will also calm the anxiety that comes from dealing with eczema flare-ups – a great way to end that vicious cycle of stress and eczema.
If the pain and itching keep you awake at night, the lavender can help you sleep too. That’s why I recommend making lavender your go-to nighttime eczema treatment.
Melaleuca (or Tea Tree Oil)
Now we get to the best essential oil for eczema for anybody who’s a big scratcher.
First off, melaleuca’s properties can calm the itchiness and the irritation that cause you to scratch. But what if you’ve already scratched too much? When your skin is raw and maybe even open from scratching an eczema patch, it’s susceptible to infection. Melaleuca is also a fabulous antiseptic to keep you safe.
Frankincense
Where many of these other oils are fabulous at treating symptoms, frankincense is the best essential oil for eczema when it comes to actual healing. Frankincense helps regenerate cells – including skin cells – so they can heal and repair.
It’s also a lovely oil for calming overall inflammation and even providing some mild pain relief to the area. It also has a calm, relaxing aroma and blends well with lavender.
Roman Chamomile
Since it reduces redness and calms the skin, Roman chamomile is a fantastic essential oil for anyone suffering from eczema. But it just so happens to be one of the top essential oils for baby eczema in particular. Chamomile is one of the safer essential oils for the young, tender skin of babies and children.
One 2013 study even found that chamomile extract was superior to hydrocortisone in treating the symptoms of eczema.
As an added bonus, it’s emotionally soothing (just like a mug of hot chamomile tea soothes you), so the aroma can help calm your upset child who is tired of itchy, uncomfortable skin. Remember: their stress is going to make their eczema worse too.
Thyme
Thyme is another highly antiseptic oil. It can fight both fungus and bacteria to keep your raw skin free from infection. In fact, a 2015 study concluded making a 3% thyme essential oil blend could treat mild to moderate “eczema-like lesions.”
Thyme is also great at reducing redness, improving swelling, and fighting against the pain of eczema.
Geranium
Geranium is a popular oil for any sort of skin condition, as it is incredibly calming and soothing. But the benefits don’t stop there.
A study on geranium oil found that it has “significant potential” in the development of new inflammatory medications that are safer for people to use – which basically means it will beat the inflammation without harming your health.
Helichrysum
This is the best essential oil for eczema scars. Sometimes even after an irritated patch of eczema fades away, you’re still left with some discoloration and scarring (this is especially true if you are a scratcher!). Helichrysum can help that area heal and fade.
But it also works wonders while the eczema is still active – it can even reduce itchiness and overall irritation.
Sandalwood
Sandalwood is the best essential oil eczema when it comes to calming the itch – it does that through its anti-inflammatory properties as well as its ability to provide some major stress relief for the mind.
I also love that sandalwood is a “thicker” essential oil with nourishing properties that soothe skin to lock in moisture. Everything that you need to calm dry, itchy skin from an eczema flare up.
Additionally, one of the properties in sandalwood is something called sanatol, which acts very similarly to NSAIDs. Researchers said sandalwood oil can actually “mimic” pain relievers like ibuprofen – without any of the harmful side effects.
Carrier Oils for Eczema Essential Oils
In the end, the best essential oil for eczema is actually a blend of some of these oils. When you join them together, you can combine their strengths into one powerful eczema healer. But you can’t just blend them and add them directly to your skin.
Your best essential oil for eczema blend needs to be incorporated into a carrier oil.
When your skin is already so sensitive from the eczema, you don’t want to add strong essential oils to the irritated area directly. The right carrier oil will help dilute the oil and help it to cover a more broad surface area. Also, the carrier oil will add its own extra nourishment to your eczema patch. Remember – dry skin is one of the main eczema triggers.
I have three favorite carrier oil options to help you use your best essential oil for eczema:
- Almond Oil: This is my #1 pick for an eczema carrier oil. Almond oil is rich in vitamin E, which the skin absolutely loves – ancient medicinal traditions often use sweet almond oil as an eczema treatment even on its own.
- Avocado Oil: This oil is highly nourishing and moisturizing without suffocating the skin; it also has plenty of helpful fatty acids and vitamins too.
- Coconut Oil: This is one of the best all-natural moisturizers for anyone. Be sure to choose an organic and unrefined/cold-pressed coconut oil. If you are prone to breakouts, don’t choose this oil on your face. Though it’s one of the best around, it’s also highly comedogenic (AKA: it can clog pores)
Now all you have to do is choose what combo of the essential oils you want to go into your best essential oil for eczema blend and add it to one of these carrier oils.
Though rollerball blends are great for a lot of situations, they’re not great for eczema. If your eczema is ever raw or open, you don’t want to keep putting the same rollerball on the inflamed skin. This could potentially breed infection.
Keep your best essential oil for eczema blend in a small mason jar or other glass container. Then pour a small amount onto your (washed!) fingers to gently add the concoction directly to the skin.
Moisturizing tip: If you want to turn this blend into more of a cream than an oil, simply add some melted raw shea butter to the mix of essential oils and carrier oil. This soothing moisturizer is well known for its eczema healing properties as well.
Essential Oils for Baby Eczema 101
First off, most eczema sufferers are young children. As they age, the flare-ups often get less severe and less frequent. As mentioned previously, take a look at the child’s diet. Remove dairy and gluten first since these are commonly associated with eczema.
Since little ones deal with eczema more often than adults, you may want to soothe their pain with essential oils for baby eczema. Some oils are entirely safe and helpful for babies and their fresh skin, but you have to do it correctly.
If you are looking to make a blend of essential oils for baby eczema, stick to these guidelines:
- Introduce one essential oil at a time.
- Dilute them always. A good ratio is 1 or 2 drops to one ounce of carrier oil.
- Try starting with lavender or Roman chamomile at the beginning. These are both extremely gentle.
- Do a small patch test on their arm or leg in an area that does not have eczema patches to make sure their brand-new skin can handle that particular essential oil and carrier oil.
- Start slowly incorporating other options one at a time with high dilution.
Some essential oil experts recommend waiting until your newborn has reached the 3-month stage before introducing essential oils. Personally, we’ve always used the mild essential oils (like Lavender and Roman Chamomile) when our children were very young. But it all depends on your comfort level. As long as the oils were properly diluted I was always good with it.
Calming Eczema Naturally
If you or your child suffer from eczema, take heart. There are so many different essential oils that can provide real relief to the most frustrating symptoms. What’s even better is they can provide healing to keep the flare-ups away – and they do it all without dumping a bunch of chemicals and side effects into the body.
I’d love to hear more from those of you with eczema or those whose children have eczema. What treatments have you tried? What works well and what doesn’t? Have you given any essential oils a try? If so, what’s the best essential oil for eczema you’ve loved? Share your thoughts in a comment below!
Sources:
- WebMD. Eczema Causes. Retrieved from: https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/eczema/eczema-causes#1
- Mama Natural. Which is the best carrier oil for essential oils? Retrieved from: https://www.mamanatural.com/best-carrier-oil/
- The Hippy Homemaker (2014). Safe Essential Oil Use with Babies & Children. Retrieved from: http://www.thehippyhomemaker.com/essential-oil-safety-babies-children/
- EWG. Calamine. Retrieved from: https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredient/700949/CALAMINE/#.WoSkZ2bMwdU
- Skin Remedies. Why Use Hydrocortisone Cream with All Its Side Effects? Retrieved from: http://www.skin-remedies.com/hydrocortisone-cream.html
- Mueller, Paul S. (2017). The Downsides of Short-Term Corticosteroids. NEJM. Retrieved from: https://www.jwatch.org/na43927/2017/05/02/downsides-short-term-corticosteroids
- National Eczema Association. Eczema Treatment. Retrieved from: https://nationaleczema.org/eczema/treatment/
- BeuatyMunsta. 15 Essential Oils for Eczema Treatment and Recipes. Retrieved from: https://beautymunsta.com/15-essential-oils-for-eczema-treatment-recipes/
- Cade, Brooke. (2017) The Best Essential Oils for Eczema & Dry Skin. It’s an Itchy Little World. Retrieved from: https://itchylittleworld.com/the-best-essential-oils-for-eczema/
- Shimelis ND, Asticcioli S, Baraldo M, Tirillini B, Lulekal E, Murgia. (2012). Researching accessible and affordable treatment for common dermatological problems in developing countries. An Ethiopian experience. PubMed. Retrieved from:https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22715822
- Renata Dawid-Paćcorr. (2013) Medicinal plants used in treatment of inflammatory skin diseases. PMC. Retrieved from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3834722/#CIT0015
- All Natural Ideas. (2017) What are the best essential oils for eczema? Retrieved from: https://allnaturalideas.com/best-essential-oils-for-eczema/
- Mohamed Nadjib Boukhatem, Abdelkrim Kameli,Mohamed Amine Ferhat, Fairouz Saidi,2 and Maamar Mekarnia. (2013). Rose geranium essential oil as a source of new and safe anti-inflammatory drugs. PMC. Retrieved from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3793238/
- Sheehan, Lindsay, (2015). 12 Anti-inflammatory essential oils to heal eczema. Natural Living Ideas. Retrieved from: http://www.naturallivingideas.com/heal-eczema-with-essential-oils/
- Sharma M1, Levenson C, Bell RH, Anderson SA, Hudson JB, Collins CC, Cox ME. (2014). Suppression of lipopolysaccharide-stimulated cytokine/chemokine production in skin cells by sandalwood oils and purified α-santalol and β-santalol. PubMed. Retrieved from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24318647
Best Essential Oils To Manage Eczema
If you are experiencing uncontrollable itching on your arms, ears, neck, or backs of the legs, you might be suffering from a skin condition called Eczema. Eczema is a condition that results in dry and rough skins, and oftentimes result in inflamed or red patches on the skin. The most common types of eczema are nummular eczema, atopic dermatitis, and contact dermatitis. To manage eczema, essential oils are typically used as they are extremely effective and gentle on the skin. Thanks to its simplicity of ingredients and formula, essential oils for eczema are easy to experiment on different types of skin conditions.
Carrier Oil
If you are looking to maximize the benefits of essential oils for your skin condition, you might want to try blending these oils with a carrier oil. Like essential oils, carrier oils contain a plethora of natural ingredients. They act as a “vessel” to deliver essential oils to your desired area efficiently.
Types of Essential Oils for Eczema
Without further ado, let us share with you the different types of essential oils for eczema that you might want to consider:
- Jojoba pil – Those who are suffering from dry or cracked skin due to eczema, Jojoba oil is an excellent option. It is a base carrier oil that mimics the oil moisture that is naturally produced on your skin. Jojoba oil is known to moisturize deep into your skin without leaving a residue.
- Apricot kernel oil – Apricot kernel oil is the perfect solution for those who have sensitive skin or are allergic to nuts. Gentle on the skin, the apricot kernel oil is also a hypoallergenic product that can be used to moisturize various parts of the body.
- Hemp seed oil – High in omega fatty acids, the hemp seed oil is a wonderful option for those who are looking to nourish their skin. When applied topically, it is gentle on the skin and can provide a soothing sensation. Hemp seed oil is typically ingested in forms of capsule or infused with a mask to hydrate and stop irritation on the skin.
- Frankincense oil – Created from resinous extract, frankincense oil can help to heal the skin while offering users with a calming sensation. It is typically diluted with a carrier oil before applying to the skin. The frankincense oil is ideal for those who have broken skin as it will assist in the repairing of cells.
- Geranium oil – Known for its exceptional balancing properties, geranium oil is great for soothing and balancing inflamed skin. It can be used alongside coconut milk during a bath. For those who have especially dry skin, the geranium essential oil can be used for facial treatments. Due to its potency, it must be diluted before applying to your skin.
- Lavender oil – Just like frankincense oil, lavender oil has anti-inflammatory properties and can provide users with a nice scent to soothe the mind.
- Grapeseed oil – Known to protect the skin, reduce redness and itchiness, grapeseed oil is one of the most common types of essential oil being used in the market. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, grapeseed oil is also commonly used to treat acne outbreaks and even out skin tone.
Purchase the Best Essential Oils for Eczema
Equipped with the knowledge of the different kinds of essential oils and their benefits, you can now make your decision better when looking for essential oils. Whether you are searching for a solution to treat your dry skin or looking to improve your skin with the natural ingredients, visit Plant Guru for a wide variety of essential oils for eczema.
9 Incredible Essential Oils for Eczema
Eczema is a group of skin conditions that cause itchy, inflamed and swollen patches on various parts of the body. Most commonly found in infants and young children (approximately 10-20%), this condition also affects adults (roughly 3% of the population). Using essential oils for eczema is a popular approach, as this avoids using strong steroid creams and other pharmaceutical options for treatment.
Eczema comes in a number of different forms, with the most common being atopic dermatitis, as well as contact dermatitis, hand eczema and stasis dermatitis, among others. The symptoms of eczema typically begin with itching on a particular area of skin, and when these areas are scratched, a rash will appear, which can become raised, hardened or scaly. The most common areas where eczema flare-ups occur are on the hands, face, feet, knees and wrists.
Eczema also has a wide range of causes, some of which can be mitigated by the use of essential oils. This irritating skin condition is not fully understood, but is most often characterized as an overreaction of the immune system to a particular irritant or substance. These triggers can often be everyday items, such as your clothes, cigarette smoke, environmental pollutants and a wide variety of foods. By supporting the immune system and soothing inflammation, using many of the following essential oils for eczema can result in quick relief. [1]
List of Essential Oils for Eczema
Many of the top essential oils for eczema include lavender, tea tree, helichrysum, coconut, turmeric, chamomile, rosemary, geranium, cedarwood, eucalyptus and clove oils.
The best essential oils for eczema help moisturize soothe the skin. Photo Credit: Shutterstock
Tea Tree Oil
Rich in anti-fungal, antibacterial, antioxidant and immune-stimulating compounds, tea tree oil is a popular choice for those suffering from chronic eczema. It is able to improve the appearance of the marks and scars left over from eczema, while also soothing the skin and preventing additional infections where the skin might be broken. [2]
How to Use – Since tea tree oil can be a drying agent, it is best to mix this oil with another carrier oil, such as coconut oil or manuka oil, and topically apply it to the area of the eczema flare-up for quick and long-lasting results, without drying out your skin.
Coconut Oil
This essential oil is used for a huge range of skin conditions, as it has anti-inflammatory, emollient and healing properties. The moisturizing capacity of coconut oil will keep the skin hydrated, while the anti-inflammatory elements will help prevent itching and soothe redness and swelling of the hardened rashes. [3]
How to Use – You only need a small amount of this oil for it to be effective, but given that coconut oil is one of the best carrier oils on the market, many people choose to blend other oils into coconut oil for an even more powerful topical application directly on the skin. Apply 2-3 times per day to quickly eliminate symptoms of eczema.
Helichrysum Oil
Rich in anti-allergenic and anti-inflammatory compounds, helichrysum essential oil can tackle eczema from both sides – as a treatment and a preventative measure. By reducing the release of histamines by the body, it is possible to minimize the rash and itchiness that often accompanies eczema. [4]
How to Use – Use a few drops of oil on the site of your eczema, and re-apply at least twice a day. You should see measurable improvement within a week, or even a few days, depending on the severity of the flare-up.
Eucalyptus Oil
When the body undergoes an allergic reaction, such as what happens when an eczema flare-up occurs, there is a flood of enzymes in the body, specifically COX-2. Eucalyptus has been proven in laboratory studies to reduce this pro-inflammatory enzyme by more than 20%, making it a rapid solution to a chronic eczema condition. [5]
How to Use – This oil is particularly good for decreasing the appearance and texture of hard patches of eczema rashes, so rub 2-3 drops of this oil directly on the site of the eczema inflammation for rapid relief.
Clove
Oil
The active ingredient in clove oil is eugenol, which is well known to reduce inflammation and pain in clinical applications. For eczema flare-ups, it is able to counter the irritation, reduce itching and promote healing of those patches of skin. [6]
How to Use – Due to how potent this oil is, it should typically be combined in a 1:1 ratio with a carrier oil, such as almond oil or coconut oil. This can be reapplied to the affected area 2-3 times per day for best results.
Geranium Oil
The swelling associated with eczema is often the most annoying part of the condition, but geranium oil is legendary for its ability to reduce swelling and inflammation, while also lessening the severity of allergic reactions by the body. [7]
How to Use – Topically apply a few drops of this oil to the site of your eczema, although if the irritation is on your face, it is best to blend this with a carrier oil, as it is known to cause inflammation to sensitive skin.
Rosemary Oil
Rosmarinic acid is a remarkable compound found in this oil that has astringent, anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, making it ideal for tightening the skin, boosting healing and reducing the urge to itch the irritated rashes. [8]
How to Use – Many people find this oil to be too harsh on the skin, and therefore mix it with coconut oil in a 1:2 ratio (rosemary:coconut). This can provide moisturizing power to the treatment as well, and can be reapplied twice daily.
Turmeric Oil
Known as one of the most antioxidant-packed oils on the market, turmeric oil has incredible anti-inflammatory properties and can boost the immune system to function more effectively and not react to harmless irritants. [9]
How to Use – Mixing turmeric oil into your skin creams or salves is a great way to benefit from the many properties of this oil without inflaming the skin any further, due to the concentrated and potent nature of this remedy.
Cedarwood Oil
With antibacterial and astringent properties, as well as anti-inflammatory abilities, cedarwood oil can quickly eliminate the allergic reaction on your skin, promote healing, and tighten the skin to prevent scarring. [10]
How to Use – Some people choose to use a few drops of cedarwood oil in their steam inhalation treatment, particularly if the eczema is located on their face. Otherwise, simple topical application to the hands, wrists or knees is sufficient to treat eczema (only a few drops are needed).
Chamomile Oil
Famed for its anti-inflammatory and sedative effects, this oil can notably reduce the itchiness of the eczema patches, while also lowering swelling and redness, making this unsightly skin condition a bit easier and less painful to manage. [11]
How to Use – There is no need to dilute chamomile oil; simply apply 3-4 drops of this oil directly to the inflamed skin twice daily, and give it enough time to properly absorb, for best results.
A Word of Caution
While using essential oils for eczema can be highly effective for many people, these oils are highly concentrated and can result in a variety of side effects, including skin inflammation and other allergic reactions. Each oil has different volatile components that might negatively interact with the body. Before adding any essential oils to your health regimen, it is typically best to speak with your doctor to ensure that this alternative practice is right for you. Severe cases of eczema, or rapidly spreading flare-ups, should be seen by a doctor, who may recommend more aggressive treatment.
Oils for active moisturizing and treatment of the skin
In the thematic community and in my LJ I have already talked about this, but I want to share it here too – I am sure that someone will find this info useful and helpful. Especially considering the number of atopics.
This post will talk about using exotic oils to treat eczema, but the oils mentioned are not only good for this purpose. Personally, I, along the way, using these oils for medicinal purposes, replaced almost all face creams and hair products with them.The effect, I tell you, is much better than that of creams. Well, besides, I am always sure of the composition of the agent used)
Uv. Associates! I am quite well-read and knowledgeable on the topic, I have tried a lot on myself, but I am not a physician or an aromatherapy specialist. Regarding the use of oils for children, it is best to consult a doctor or aromatherapy specialist. I can only share only what I myself read on the topic.
I have been in constant search of non-hormonal agents for the treatment and relief of eczema for a long time.
A lot of miracle remedies have been tried and very good, effective creams have been found. But I have a problem – I need to change the funds every month or two, because the effectiveness decreases and eczema blooms again in lush color. Recently, I have been actively using only oils and the effect is amazing. To combat eczema, I use baobab oils, kukui, emu oil and essential oils of orange, lavender, tea tree. Oils are not cheap, but their consumption is very economical.
As base oils for the treatment of eczema, I use avocado oil, for cosmetic oil mixtures – peach or apricot kernel oil, almond oil.I order big bottles because I have a lot of these oils.
Aura Cacia, Organic Moisturizing Baobab Oil
One of my most impressive oils. VERY effective. The oil, after using which, I finally understood what silk skin is. Even with eczema.
Its main value is VERY active hydration. Baobab oil is used to treat and restore dry, dehydrated skin. It relieves irritation, heals, increases the elasticity, firmness of the skin, restores its structure and prevents stretch marks.Ideal for eye contour care (smoothes wrinkles). Acts as a strong antioxidant. It can be used both in mixtures and in pure form, because does not clog pores. Nevertheless, for hair care it is recommended to use it in its pure form, for skin care – in the composition of mixtures. The oil is very light, absorbs quickly and leaves no shine. An excellent product for hair that requires intense moisture. Ideal for treatment mixtures for eczema and psoriasis. Store in a cool, dark place.
I am absolutely delighted with him!
Life Flo Health, Pure Kukui Oil
Has regenerative and antibacterial properties (when applied to damaged skin, it prevents inflammation and scarring).
Useful for chapping and frostbite, burns, eczema, psoriasis, wounds and scratches. An effective remedy for acne. Leaves chapped, rough and dry skin smooth, silky, soft and supple. Retains moisture in the skin, forming an airtight film, without blocking the normal functioning of the skin.Protects skin from water, wind and sun exposure. It can be used for all skin types, but is especially recommended for dry skin. Suitable for sensitive skin Suitable for removing eye make-up and taking care of baby skin. Store only in refrigerator after opening.
It is a pity that there is no dispenser in the bottle 🙁 You have to pour, otherwise it’s a pity to climb into it with your hands / spoons.
Aura Cacia, Organic Nourishing Tamanu Oil
A distinctive feature of Tamanu oil is the presence of unique components that stimulate the formation of new, healthy skin cells …It has anti-inflammatory and regenerative effects (anti-aging compositions, after-sun products, etc.). It is used for serious chronic inflammatory skin diseases – acne, eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, post-surgical scars, burns, ulcers, abscesses, inflammations, rashes, etc. It is used to heal ulcers and cracks in the skin of the face and body. Heals wounds, burns, scars, stitches, rashes, herpes, irritation, inflammation and insect bite marks. Restores broken capillaries and texture on damaged skin.Reduces skin irritation, soothes it, has a protective effect against external factors, and is also an active moisturizer. Despite its viscosity, it is well absorbed into the skin, enhancing blood circulation. It can be used either in pure form or as an additive – 10-50%. Do not use internally! Store only in refrigerator after opening.
Usually they say about it that it is quickly absorbed and does not leave a greasy film. Not my case – the oily shine from my skin, even with scanty use, disappears only after two hours.Therefore, I use it only for evening ointments.
Mixed with base oil and added essential oils, I use it instead of a night cream. Although he has a smell …))
Kalaya Calandri, Emu Essentials, Emu Oil
One of the most powerful moisturizers. Does not clog pores. Smoothes wrinkles. Perfectly helps in the treatment of injuries, abrasions and bedsores. relieves symptoms of psoriasis, allergies and dermatitis. Reduces itching, redness and flaking, accelerates the epithelialization of wounds. Amazing efficiency for accelerating the healing of postoperative wounds, bruises, sprains.Effective in the treatment of burns. It prevents the growth of bacteria – a natural anti-inflammatory agent.
Like tamanu oil, in my case it is not absorbed too quickly, so I use it in the evening.
A friend gave me this oil. I bought myself this Emu Gold, All Natural Emu Oil, Extra Strength, but I haven’t used it yet.
I do not like its smell, therefore I do not use it for face and body care, only in medicinal mixtures.
Avocado oil. – Life Flo Health, Pure Avocado Oil
Suitable for all skin types.Concentrations above 10% are usually used for very dry and damaged skin. It can be applied in its pure form directly to those parts of the body that need treatment (rash, eczema).
Avocado oil restores the barrier functions of the epidermis and local skin immunity. Perfectly softens and soothes. Stimulates metabolic processes in the skin, contributes to its enrichment with oxygen. It is used to quickly restore the integrity and uniformity of the skin with minor injuries, inflammations.Recommended for damaged and colored hair, eliminates brittleness and split ends, gives hair a natural shine. Store only in refrigerator after opening.
For medicinal products I buy organic essential oils, for aroma lamps – simple ones.
Organic Orange Essential Oil – Aura Cacia, Organic Orange, Sweet
Suitable for all skin types, normalizes oiliness. It gives elasticity, helps to reduce wrinkles, has a whitening effect, and removes toxins from the skin.Relieves inflammation and breakouts, softens rough skin.
Excellent product for oily skin with acne. balances the sebum production process. Cleans and tightens pores, removes acne scars, strengthens the epidermis, and gives the skin elasticity.
Regenerates dry skin, moisturizes and retains moisture in the skin, increases blood circulation, strengthens the epidermis, promotes the growth of new cells and the renewal of old ones.
For aging, tired skin – smoothes wrinkles, relieves muscle tension and reduces the depth of expression lines, restores and moisturizes the skin.Relieves puffiness.
Stimulates lymph flow, has a powerful anticellulite effect. Dandruff remedy; effective for dry hair.
I love it for both the smell and the result) A couple of drops in an aroma lamp – and a good mood is guaranteed)
Organic essential oil of medicinal lavender – Aura Cacia, Organic Lavender oil
Suitable for all skin types, especially for the care of sensitive and tired skin. It has excellent antiseptic properties, reduces inflammation.It has a refreshing, renewing, regenerating effect. Eliminates redness, irritation, swelling, itching, flaking and inflammatory reactions (acne, dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, boils). Heals wounds, regenerates skin. An ideal remedy for inflammatory rashes for delicate, damaged skin, as well as for herpes.
Excellent care product for damaged hair: eliminates dandruff, breakage and excessive hair loss.
Organic Tea Tree Essential Oil – Aura Cacia, Organic Tea Tree
Broad spectrum antiseptic and anti-inflammatory agent.Effective for acute and chronic skin inflammations. Eliminates pustular, acne rash. Eliminates bacterial, viral, parasitic dermatitis, eczema, inflammatory infiltrates on the skin. It also has a regenerating and rehabilitating effect, eliminating irritation, swelling, itching, redness, restoring color and healthy skin relief. Helps strengthen hair and eliminate dandruff.
It is used for the care of oily, impure skin, as well as for acne, itching, dandruff, hair loss, warts.
For the treatment of eczema, I mainly use the following mixtures
To eliminate dry plaques and active moisturizing:
avocado oil + kukui + baobab (proportions 2: 1: 1) + orange or lavender EO, or their combination (2-3 drops per every 5 ml of a mixture of oils) (I do not use orange oil before going outside)
In case of exacerbation of inflammation, redness, itching and at night:
avocado oil + tamanu + emu (proportions 2: 1: 1) + lavender essential oil + tea essential oil wood (2 drops of each oil for every 5 ml of the mixture of oils).
I vary the composition of the mixtures as needed.
IMPORTANT !!!
All oils must first be tested for component intolerance.
The dosage of essential oils must be observed!
Consult a specialist regarding the use of oils for children!
I would be glad if my review and experience is useful to someone.
Be healthy!
Oil designation
| Appearance
| |
Orange | It soothes the nervous system, strengthens the immune system, eliminates anxiety and fear, and is used as an antiseptic. 10 drops in a ladle of water. | |
Bergamot | It stabilizes blood pressure, is used as a fortifying, antiviral and antibacterial agent, and is used to eliminate cellulite. 5-10 drops per bucket of water. | |
Oregano | A strong antiviral agent, used in the healing of wounds and bruises, effective in arthrosis and arthritis, used for delayed menstruation. 4-6 drops on a ladle of hot water. | |
Ate | For prophylaxis against colds and increase immunity, quickly restores tissues in case of bruises, scratches, hematomas and abrasions, promotes muscle recovery after heavy physical exertion. 5-7 drops on a scoop of water. | |
Ylang Ylang | It normalizes blood pressure, eliminates headache, improves blood circulation and lowers the pulse rate, with impotence and frigidity it is used as an erotic stimulant, facilitates the course of menopause. 2-3 drops on a ladle of hot water. | |
Cedar | It speeds up tissue regeneration, is used as an anti-inflammatory remedy for osteochondrosis and arthritis, has a high antiviral protection. 5-10 drops per bucket of water. | |
Lavender | Reduces headaches, joints and muscles. Heals wounds. Increases immunity to infectious diseases. 10 drops in a scoop of water. | |
Lemon | Reduces headaches during fatigue and changes in the atmosphere, has a protective function against varicose veins. Antiviral and antibacterial agent. 4-6 drops on a ladle of hot water. | |
Mandarin | Strengthens the immune system, promotes the absorption of vitamins by the body, increases the resistance and protective functions of the body. 2-4 drops per bucket. | |
Melissa | It has antiviral protection against flu epidemics, recovers strength after heavy physical exertion, and is used for dizziness. 2-4 drops per scoop of hot water. | |
Myrtle | It is used for flu and colds, has a high degree of antibacterial and antiviral protection. Strengthens and elasticizes the walls of blood vessels in case of varicose veins. 3-5 drops on a ladle of water. | |
Juniper | Anti-infective agent, normalizes blood pressure, eliminates weakness, dizziness and darkening in the eyes. 3-5 drops per scoop. | |
Mint | It is used for diseases of the upper respiratory tract, strengthens blood vessels and reduces muscle tension. 2-4 drops per scoop of water. | |
Fir | Increases immunity, kills germs, is a cough remedy.Improves visual acuity after mental fatigue. It has an excellent effect on the body with hypothermia. 10 drops per scoop of hot water. | |
Rosemary | Eliminates severe headaches, It is used for dizziness and restoration of visual acuity in case of overwork, stimulates the body to a quick recovery from a cold. 3-5 drops on a scoop of water. | |
Pines | An effective remedy for colds. Relieves muscle fatigue, relaxing and calming. Heals wounds, cuts and abrasions. 3-5 drops in a scoop of water. | |
Thyme | Boosts immunity. It is an antiseptic and disinfectant. It is used in wound healing and strengthening of the nervous system. 3-5 drops of oil in one scoop of water. | |
Tea tree | A powerful antiseptic and anti-inflammatory agent for the healing of wounds, abrasions and other tissue damage. Stimulates the endocrine system. 3-5 drops of the product in a scoop of water. | |
Clary sage | It is an excellent general tonic. Scares away insects, eliminates itching when they bite. It is used to relieve and restore monthly menstrual cycles. 3-5 drops on a ladle of water. | |
Eucalyptus | An excellent preventive and therapeutic agent for the upper respiratory tract. It has a general strengthening effect on the body, and also relieves fatigue after playing sports or after heavy physical exertion. 5 drops on a ladle of hot water. | |
Oils for skin treatment (wounds, burns, allergies)
Plant and essential oils can provide good support in the treatment of various skin lesions, allergic reactions and inflammation.
Which natural oils have wound healing properties:
- ARGANIA VIRGIN OIL is a powerful wound healing and soothing agent.Suitable for sensitive and baby skin from birth.
- COCOA oil is a well-known remedy in folk medicine, a natural medicine that solves many problems. This is a very mild and safe remedy, so it can be used by pregnant and lactating mothers and young children. Cocoa butter has good wound healing properties, relieves itching, heals burns, cracks, peeling, stretch marks and scars. Contraindication is individual intolerance.
- SHI (shea) oil is the safest remedy for sensitive, allergy-prone and baby skin from birth.Effectively restores the skin after aggressive environmental influences: sun, wind, frost. Eliminates itching, flaking, redness of the skin.
- Laurel oil – has been used for centuries to make the healing Aleppo soap. This oil is added to creams and ointments for the treatment of damaged and inflamed skin, cracks, for antiseptic and antifungal properties. In pure form, not suitable for sensitive skin.
- TAMANU (Alexandrian laurel) oil – this oil contains natural antibiotics that relieve inflammation, have a powerful wound healing and regenerating effect, and stimulate skin renewal.Tamanu oil is able to cope with a wide range of skin problems: allergies, psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis, lichen, insect bites, herpes, comedones, acne, acne, etc. Suitable for sensitive and baby skin from birth.
- ENOTHERA (evening primrose) oil – used for thousands of years to heal wounds. Helps with allergies, eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, inflammation. Effectively heals fresh scars and stretch marks.
- BLACK Cumin oil is a traditional oriental medicine.Helps with acne and acne, treats stretch marks and scars, relieves acute inflammation, treats eczema, psoriasis, lichen, bruises.
- TEA TREE essential oil is a very popular antiseptic and anti-inflammatory agent. Heals herpes, wounds, abrasions, bruises, rashes, itching, warts, burns, insect bites, genital infections, fungus, etc. Can be used in pure form locally on the affected area. Do not use undiluted to treat sensitive and baby skin.
- ROMAN CHAMOMILE essential oil – restores damaged skin, relieves swelling, redness, itching, pain.Softens the skin and heals cracks. Treats burns, diaper dermatitis, eczema, irritation after shaving and depilation.
This list is, of course, not complete. A lot of oils have wound healing and regenerating properties. I chose the most popular ones, and you just need to choose yours.
In the SOAP.BY shop you can buy vegetable oils obtained by mechanical pressing without the use of any solvents or synthetic preservatives.
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Botanika
7 essential oils
15 June 2016
Aromatherapy for beginners
If you are taking your first steps in aromatherapy and do not know where to start, start with 7 essential oils:
Lavender
Tea tree
Mint
Chamomile
Eucalyptus
Geranium
Lemon
Lavender
If you had to choose what to take with you to the uninhabited
an island of essential oils and you were allowed to take one, no doubt
it should have been lavender.Lavender is famous for its abundance of beneficial properties.
It is a natural antibiotic, antiseptic, antidepressant, detoxifier and sedative. Lavender miraculously
affects the skin – heals wounds and
prevents the appearance of scars, stimulates the immune system and skin regeneration.
Perfectly fights acne, acne and acne by inhibiting the growth of bacteria.
This is one of the few essential oils that can be cleaned
applied to the skin, even on the burn site – it will soothe the skin and accelerate
healing process.
Lavender, perhaps the most famous sedative,
which affects everyone – animals, children, adults. Also, lavender
saves in case of nervous exhaustion, loss of strength, weakness, relieves insomnia. V
everyday life lavender oil is useful as a powerful repellent, and not only for moths –
summer residents will find it useful against field mice, ants and aphids.
No. 2 Tea tree
Antiseptic effect of tea tree oil about one hundred
times stronger than that of carbolic acid – the first medical antiseptic.Despite the fact that the Australian aborigines used this plant in
medical purposes for centuries, until now all the beneficial properties
tea tree has not been thoroughly studied by science. It has a powerful anti-virus,
antibacterial and antifungal action and can be used as a remedy
against acne, fungus of the feet, sunburn, acne, warts, inflammation and
dandruff.
Especially effective for the targeted care of oily and
problem skin, effectively cleanses, eliminating inflammation, pustular and
acne, dermatitis, eczema, infiltrates.
No. 3 Mint
The healing properties of mint have been known since antiquity. Mint is a synonym
freshness and vigor. This is beautiful
remedy for colds, to ease breathing, relieve fever,
muscle tension. It is an effective natural antiseptic and repellent – mint
helps in everyday life against cockroaches, ants, mice. Used for marine
illness and motion sickness in transport, relieves nausea, dizziness. Stimulates
mental activity.
Thanks to the menthol in its composition, it is beneficial
affects the condition of any type of skin, refreshes, cleanses, improves complexion and
removing traces of fatigue and poor sleep. Especially suitable for problem skin,
fighting such imperfections of the epidermis as acne, acne,
redness, dermatitis
No. 4 Chamomile
Despite the fact that
chamomile has antibacterial, antiseptic and disinfectant
properties, most of all it is valued for its anti-inflammatory
properties.This is the number 1 oil for children
since absolutely hypoallergenic and can be used for babies from 3
months of age. Chamomile essential oil is used to treat burns, in
including solar, stretch marks, cellulite, various skin inflammations. Maybe
stop an attack of hiccups, relieves itching after insect bites. With regular
use brightens age spots and freckles, and restores a vibrant healthy complexion
Sedatives and
the soothing properties of chamomile are also widely known – it stabilizes
nervous system, relieves fears, anxiety, nervous tension, returns
quiet comfortable sleep
# 5 Eucalyptus
In northern Africa, eucalyptus groves were planted as
the only defense against the spread of malaria.The scent of eucalyptus is cooling,
fresh, with a woody camphor tart base and very resinous notes
like people, but merciless to flying insects, dangerous to health.
Unique aroma
fresh eucalyptus is fully expressed in essential oil: it is a powerful natural
antiseptic, antibiotic, pain reliever and
even a deodorant.
Eucalyptus essential oil suitable for targeted care
problem skin, helps it look clean and healthy by reducing porosity
and normalizing the work of the sebaceous glands.Eucalyptus is a well-known remedy for
respiratory diseases. When used in massage oil
relaxes the body after intense physical exertion, relieving muscle tension,
has an anti-cellulite effect.
The scent of eucalyptus, in addition to being very pleasant on its own
itself, has a positive effect on the psycho-emotional background – drives away melancholy, drowsiness, eliminates
increased fatigue, motivates, stimulates concentration.
# 6 Geranium
Geranium smells great and works just as well.
If you are worried about the complexion, geranium will help restore the skin smoothness and
natural radiance, acting as a magical rejuvenating agent. Essential oil
geranium is indispensable for enriching conventional cosmetics, and especially
recommended for dry, sensitive and problem skin. Possessing high
regenerating abilities, helps with burns and frostbite, heals
wounds.It is a powerful remedy for cellulite and stretch marks.
The aroma of geranium inspires optimism and adjusts to
positive emotions, promotes quality relaxation, therefore
recommended for relieving nervous tension and fatigue.
No. 7 Lemon
Lemon aroma is the most famous and easiest way to combat
seasickness and motion sickness in transport. For home use, essential
lemon oil is known to be a great remedy for headaches and bites
insects, cellulite, dandruff and unpleasant stubborn odors in the kitchen, furniture,
carpets, etc.
Lemon is the number 1 oil for problematic teenage skin, it is
perfectly cleanses the skin, reducing acne, relieving inflammation and irritation.
Is a natural antibacterial
protection for oily skin. Very effective care for hair, making it strong and
healthy, preventing hair loss.
We have listed far from all the beneficial properties of the most
popular essential oils. But with such a set, it’s not scary to go even to
uninhabited island – you are definitely not threatened by flying insects, dandruff,
cellulite and bad mood 🙂
Essential oils and pets
Aromatherapy , as a method of therapeutic effects on the human body and animals, has long been known. Essential oils have antiseptic, deodorant, antipyretic, healing, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antispasmodic, insecticidal, diuretic, antiviral, expectorant, antihelminthic, local irritant and other actions. You can try some recipes (but without fanaticism!) Apply on your pets. Essential oils are potent substances and are practically not used in their pure (undiluted form), as they can cause poisoning or strong side effects.As a thinner, you can use peach or olive oil, saline or alcohol solutions. And remember that aromatherapy is not a panacea, but just one of the methods of therapy. Therefore, before using essential oils, it is better to consult a specialist and not postpone a visit to a veterinarian if the results of their independent use are unsatisfactory.
Some recipes for using essential oils.
Pliers. They can be easily removed with tea tree, lavender, or thyme essential oils.Apply a drop of undiluted oil to the tick and pull it out in a counterclockwise circular motion.
Treatment of wounds. If your dog or cat has itchy eczema, wounds or ulcers, you should rub the following essential oil mixture into the affected area (it will bring relief and recovery). A side effect of this treatment is that the animal becomes less prone to tick and flea bites.
A mixture of essential oils. Add to 50 ml of vegetable oil:
5 drops of lavender,
5 drops of tea tree.
Rub this mixture into the affected area three times a day until the wounds are completely healed.
For fleas in dogs and cats – add tea tree and lavender essential oils to the shampoo for washing the animal. It is possible to remove fleas using these oils with the help of a spray bottle, only this must be done on the street, otherwise the fleas will scatter throughout the apartment. And be sure to protect your pet’s eyes from splashes. For the same purposes, you can use: mint, sage, eucalyptus, citronella.
Anti-flea collar – lubricate the dog’s collar daily with a mixture of 1 drop of lavender and 2 drops of thyme, dissolve in 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil.
Lemongrass essential oil will help you if the cat is mischievous and tears furniture where it is not supposed to.
Essential oils eliminate the smell of pets: geranium, lavender, rosemary, violet, lemon, cypress.
If the cat shits, anywhere:
Cats can’t stand the smell of citrus. It is best to use lemon essential oil.Apply a few drops to the area where the cat shits. A few procedures are enough.
Demodectic mange in dogs. It is possible, and very successfully, to inhibit the vital activity of the demodex mite by treating its manifestations on the skin (ears, paws and back) with tea tree essential oil.
Pure essential oil should not be used to treat ears – only with base oil in a ratio of 1: 3. In addition, it is imperative that once a day, on an empty stomach, give a mixture of essential and base oils in a ratio of 1 drop per 1 ml.inside.
Enteritis in cats and dogs. Dilute lavender or tea tree essential oils with base oil in a 1: 3 ratio. The resulting drug should be instilled in 2-3 drops every 3-4 hours into the oral cavity during the first day, then gradually increase the time interval.
After 3-4 days of such treatment, your pet will be healthy. (If on the second day after the application of essential oils there is no improvement – urgently see a doctor!)
Healing properties of essential oils
In our time, the sense of smell is not given much importance.However, it plays a much larger role than many of us think. At the beginning of the twentieth century, it was suggested that trees and herbs secrete special substances (atmovitamins) that are absorbed by the lungs and are catalysts for biochemical processes and metabolism. Over time, the correctness of this assumption was confirmed.
Atmovitamins include air ions, ozone, volatile phytoorganic substances (essential oils), which are perceived by humans in the form of odors. It has been established that there are two mechanisms of smell perception – associative and reflex.The first is based on memorizing the relationship of odors with habitual ideas and affects mainly the psychoemotional sphere of a person. The second – with the influence of odorous substances on the olfactory receptor cells in biologically active points of the turbinate associated with the olfactory analyzer, the hypothalamus and the limbic system.
These highly active systems are linked to other vital areas of the brain that regulate heart rate, blood pressure, breathing rate, and other vital functions of the body.Moreover, the olfactory reflex is specific to each aroma. The smell must match the receptor exactly. That is why synthetic odorous substances are much less effective than natural ones: they can only cause the corresponding associations, but the reflex component is often absent.
This is due to the complex multicomponent structure of natural fragrant substances, which cannot be recreated in laboratory conditions. However, a person’s reflex reaction to smell affects both the psychoemotional sphere (smell generates an image) and the physiological one.Moreover, the minimum concentration of an odorous substance in the inhaled air causes very noticeable reactions of the body. A few drops of jasmine essential oil in a vaporizer stimulates the activity of the brain as much as coffee. Eucalyptus – improves breathing, cleanses the organs of the nasopharynx.
To become a qualified aromatherapist requires thorough training, knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and the healing effects of more than one hundred essential oils. However, everyone can use essential oils for preventive purposes, to raise vitality, performance, relieve fatigue and stress.
The use of essential oils
The founder of modern clinical medicine, the great ancient Greek physician Hippocrates, believed that the path to health was “a daily aromatic bath and a massage with incense.” Indeed – what could be better than a water treatment for wellness and a massage for a tired body? And if also “aromatic” and with “incense”?
Thousands of years have passed since people first began to extract aromatic substances from plants, use them in everyday life and in religious rituals, and use them for medical and cosmetic purposes.The experience of obtaining and using aromatic substances was gradually expanding, it became clear that each of them, in addition to a unique smell, has its own, special effect on the human body.
Today, “liquid aroma concentrates” – essential oils are widely used in perfumery, cosmetics, medicine. These oils are volatile liquids of complex composition, the main components of which are natural hydrocarbons (terpenes). Essential oils are usually obtained by steam distillation of flowers, leaves or plant roots.
Vegetable essential oils are not just pleasant aromas, they are biologically active substances. Their effect on the body is very wide – from a beneficial effect on the psyche, mood, mental and physical performance to effective impact on the course of a variety of diseases and pathological processes.
A special medical direction – aromatherapy is defined as the science and art of healing, prevention and treatment with the help of plant essences – essential oils.And the main feature of aromatherapy is the naturalness and simplicity of the method, the mild action of aromatic substances, the possibility of using essential oils for self-healing.
Essential oils can enter the body through the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract, through the skin and the gastrointestinal tract. Hence an important advantage of essential oils – the variety of ways of their introduction. Essential oils can be simply inhaled (cold and hot inhalations, aromatics), but they can also be used for rubbing and compresses, in rinsing and for ingestion.
All these qualities of essential oils are widely used in MIRRA products – creams and balms, bath products.
Here are a few ways to use essential oils (or aroma compositions based on them).
Scented incense burner. Pour some water into a container for evaporation and add essential oil at the rate of 2 drops per 5 square meters. m of the area of the room.
Inhalation is cold. Inhale the aroma of the oil for 5 to 7 minutes directly from the bottle or after applying the oil to a cloth.
Hot inhalation. Add 3 – 5 drops of essential oil to a saucepan or bowl of hot water, cover your head with a towel and inhale the steam deeply for 5 – 7 minutes.
Baths and baths. Baths can be shared, sit-down, foot baths. They can be hot or warm (5 – 7 drops of essential oil are placed on a sugar cube or mixed with 1 tablespoon of salt and then stir in water). The duration of the bath is 10-15 minutes.
Compresses.In warm water (1 – 2 glasses) add 3 – 5 drops of essential oil, moisten a cotton cloth, squeeze lightly and apply for 30 minutes to a sore spot; put a plastic wrap (or oilcloth) on top of the area of the compress. Cold compresses are used for injuries, bruises, sprains, hot compresses – for chronic diseases.
Rubbing. Stir 2 – 3 drops of essential oil in 5 – 7 g of vegetable oil, apply to the sore spot and rub vigorously into the skin.
Massage. Prepare the mixture as for rubbing and use for massage of the spine, limbs, abdomen.
Rinses. 1 – 2 drops of essential oil in 1/2 cup of warm water. In case of inflammatory diseases of the oral mucosa, chronic tonsillitis, rinse 3-4 times a day.
Ingestion. Place 1 – 2 drops of essential oil on a sugar cube or stir with honey (1 teaspoon). The frequency of admission is from 1 to 3 times a day.Essential oils can be taken with warm water or herbal tea. Before taking essential oil internally, you should consult your doctor.
The most important property of essential oils is the effect on the psyche, on the central nervous system, a general regulating effect on the entire body. Some of the essential oils have a tonic, stimulating effect, relieve fatigue and increase efficiency. Others – have an adaptogenic effect, help the body to better adapt to changing environmental conditions.Still others – relieve overexcitation, calm down, improve sleep.
Almost all essential oils have an anti-inflammatory effect to some extent; many of them have antiseptic, bactericidal, antiviral effects. Some essential oils have analgesic, antipyretic, drainage effects, are useful for dysfunctions of the cardiovascular system and gastrointestinal tract, and are effective for sexual problems.
MIRRA uses about 30 of the most effective essential oils in its products.The most suitable oils from grape seeds, jojoba, milk thistle and others are used as their “carriers” in creams, balms, massage oils.
In conclusion, a few words about the effect of essential oils on the skin. The fact that such an action is very effective is well known from the centuries-old experience of using aromatic substances in cosmetology and dermatology. The effectiveness of essential oils is ensured by their bioavailability – the ability to deeply penetrate the skin, directly affect the cells of its various layers, blood and lymphatic capillaries, metabolism.That is why essential oils help to eliminate functional disorders (“stale” complexion), help with local disorders (striae, bruises, swelling) and general disorders (eczema, neurodermatitis). Due to the variety of positive effects of essential oils, their therapeutic effect is also varied. Therefore, one should not think that MIRRALGIN balm only reduces pain, and ANTI-CELLULITE balm is useful only for cellulite.
At the same time, certain essential oils also have a predominant therapeutic effect in a particular pathology.Therefore, their presence in a particular product makes this product useful for use in appropriate cases. Essential oils are an effective means of affecting the body. With their help, you can often achieve amazing results. However, it is also necessary to observe some precautions.
So, at the beginning of using oils, you need to determine your attitude to the essential oil by smell, especially when used for inhalation (it is better not to use oil, the aroma of which causes unpleasant sensations).
Occasionally, individual intolerance to oil is noted, caution is required in case of a tendency to allergic reactions.
In case of kidney diseases, it is not recommended to use essential oils of fir, pine. You should not use anise and geranium oils for a long time, combine the intake of orange and lemon oils with prolonged exposure to the sun. With increased excitability, it is not recommended to take essential oils of clove and sage, with varicose veins, thrombophlebitis – basil oil.For bronchial asthma and pregnancy, essential oils should be taken with caution. In young children, the skin is sensitive to peppermint oil.
Contraindications for taking aromatized baths are active forms of tuberculosis, severe circulatory failure, malignant tumors.
It is better to start using essential oils with minimal dosages. Do not use the same oil for a long time (more than 3 – 4 weeks).Although essential oils are easy to use at home, it is best to check with your family doctor first.
For each person, you can choose an essential oil or a composition of oils that will have the most beneficial effect.
L. Conde, Candidate of Medical Sciences
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is the science and art of treating diseases with herbal essential oils, the healing power of which is diverse and is entirely aimed at healing and harmonizing the physical and field body.All essential oils – with strict adherence to the rules of use – do not have any negative side effects and do not cause an imbalance in the physiological processes in the body. Any essential oil has a complex effect and helps with various diseases of the physical and psycho-emotional sphere.
The antiseptic ability of essential oils is associated with the presence of phytoncides – antimicrobial substances with antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties.Aggressiveness towards fungal cells is combined with the almost complete harmlessness of essential oils for the human body. These properties significantly distinguish essential oils from antibiotics and determine the advantages of aromatherapy: low toxicity and the possibility of long-term use without significant undesirable side effects. It is important to note that the antiseptic capacity of essential oils does not diminish over time, as microorganisms do not develop resistance. This is due to the fact that essential oils act destructively on the membranes of microorganisms, reducing their permeability and thereby reducing the respiration activity of microbes, which leads to their death.
Aromatherapy cannot replace classical medicine for serious illnesses, but the use of essential oils can simplify medication treatment. Aromatherapy is a wonderful, wise natural method for healing many physical and mental ailments. Its main goal is to restore the balance of body and mind, as well as to maintain and stimulate the body’s natural defenses.
Whole treatises have been written about the healing properties of essential oils such as tea tree or lavender, and myrrh oil was used in ancient times.Until recently, very few people knew about the essential oil of Monarda Pistus, and our Company is proud that it is practically the only one who actively uses this unique oil. Many studies on the study of the properties of monarda, both mono-oil and its compositions with other oils, were carried out with a group of colleagues by Professor V.V. Nikolaevsky. Interesting data were obtained by academician I.N. Blokhina, who worked closely with our Company.
A parallel study of the bactericidal properties of essential oils of sage, monarda, tea tree showed their different effectiveness against the following pathogenic and opportunistic microorganisms isolated from patients with lesions of the skin, respiratory tract and intestines: staphylococcus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiela, streptococcus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa. mushrooms.EO Monarda turned out to be the most effective; it completely suppressed the growth of all test cultures, except for Pseudomonas aeruginosa, but at the same time, a significant inhibition of the growth of this culture was observed.
The research center of the MIRRA Company has studied the antiviral properties of essential oils of sage, monarda, tea tree, lavender and mint. Methods of electron microscopy, model virus systems (bacteriophages) and standard assessment methods were used. It was shown that the maximum antiviral activity is characteristic of the microemulsion of monarda and tea tree essential oils.Sage and mint occupy the middle position, while lavender has minimal effect on viral particles.
The results obtained show that the action of monarda essential oil is directed to the membrane apparatus of bacteriophages, the destruction of which leads to inactivation of the virus.
Thus, the essential oil of monarda is active against bacteria, fungi, and viruses.
All these materials and scientific research were used in the design of the MIRRA phytosystem preparations.
S.A. Chubatov
* When using the materials of the article, a hyperlink to the source is required
90,000 Treatment and prevention of eczema at home | Mr.Proper
Eczema isn’t really the only problem. Eczema belongs to a group of skin diseases that includes atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, eczema red, neurodermatitis, numurae eczema or stasis dermatitis. Many people today suffer from this unpleasant disease. And finding some kind of calming, natural cure can be kind of a quest for life and a dream for them.
Eczema usually occurs for the first time in very young children. One study found that 65 percent of cases occur before babies celebrate their first birthday, and 90 percent of people have their first cases before they turn five. Another thing to think about is that eczema in children is becoming more common .Eczema may resemble psoriasis and dermatitis, but this is a different condition.
A study by the Pediatric Department of Cincinnati Hospital found that 39% of children develop eczema before the age of 3. Interestingly, this same study found that children who have a dog at home are significantly less likely to develop eczema at any age.
Although the initial incidence of eczema is most common in infants and young children, it can occur at any time. Most skin conditions that fall under the definition of eczema are chronic. However, it is important to note that contact dermatitis and hand eczema can be acute in nature due to exposure to allergens or chemicals. For many people, the severity of eczema outbreaks decreases with age. However, eczema can come and go throughout life. Learning how to treat your eczema and identifying the triggers that cause it to flare up is the best course of action.
While there is no definitive answer to the cause of eczema and no identified treatment, there are effective natural treatments, home remedies and essential oils for eczema that can help prevent future flare-ups and relieve discomfort during an outbreak of . It is important to note that eczema is an unpleasant, stressful and frustrating condition that often disrupts even sleep. Finding the right eczema treatment to help relieve symptoms is therefore the highest priority.
Eczema – Risk Factors, Causes and Symptoms
There are actually a number of causes and risk factors associated with eczema. And the symptoms of eczema can manifest in very different ways among those affected. This is very individual. To date, no unique cause of eczema has been identified, but there are some common causes leading to its onset and outbreak. In addition, a number of risk factors have been identified.
Risk factors for eczema
Risk factors for eczema are:
Genetic predisposition or family history of eczema, hay fever or asthma
Young age
Health care worker
ADHD
73
in very dry climates
· Nutritional deficiencies
· Adolescent obesity – late onset of eczema
· Low vitamin D levels during pregnancy can also increase the risk of eczema in the first year of life.
Causes of Eczema
It is fair to say that the medical community has not yet determined the definitive cause of eczema. Some may be due to a lack of nutrition, others may be due to an allergen or other irritant. Here are the accepted causes of eczema:
Dry and sensitive skin with cracks
Immune system dysfunction
Environmental assumptions
Genetic changes that affect the skin
Food allergies, cosmetics, detergents or other chemical allergies
· Chronic stress
· Temperature changes
Symptoms of eczema
Symptoms of eczema can range from mild to very severe + they can change from one lesion to another.Common symptoms include:
Appearance of small, raised bumps that may have fluid and crust on top
Thick, very dry, scaly skin with cracks
Red, brown, or gray skin on hands, feet, ankles , wrist, neck, upper chest, eyelids, skin folds and on the face and scalp, especially in children
Sensitive swollen skin leads to scratches
Recurrent rash causing severe itching, often disrupts sleep
· Atopic eczema rash
There is no cure for eczema today. However, there are various non-invasive treatment options for eczema that can alleviate its onset and some can prevent it from occurring. These may include corticosteroids, but the following home treatment options for eczema may also be of great interest. And they are purely natural. Here are some tips on how to get rid of eczema naturally and naturally.
1. Coconut Oil
Many people use coconut oil for everything. This is one of the things that many of us are on the list in a typical “what do you take to a desert island” situation. This oil can be used on skin, hair, teeth, in general for health and even as a soap. But it’s also great for eczema (if the person has a coconut allergy / intolerance!).
Only a thin layer of coconut oil helps cool eczema, greatly relieving itching and pain. We definitely recommend trying
2.Sea water
For eczema that is wet, drying it usually works better than trying to moisturize it. You can use some kind of homemade marine spray. When you listen to people with skin problems, they often say they feel better at the beach. And it makes sense. Vitamin D, Magnesium and Minerals in Salt Water – Great for Skin Health! For those who don’t live near the ocean or sea, try the homemade spray recipe below. You can achieve almost the same benefits with it.
You will need:
1 cup of distilled or boiled water
1 teaspoon of Himalayan salt (or sea salt)
Magnesium
Optional: 1-3 drops of an essential oil of your choice (required good lavender)
How to make a salt spray:
1. Add salt and magnesium (if used) to the water and stir until the salt is completely dissolved .
2. Add essential oil if you are using it and store this mixture in a glass jar or spray.
3. Usage: Apply to skin by spray or cotton swab. This mixture is great for daily skin care after bathing.
Note: Herbal tea can be used in place of distilled water if it is made from dried herbs. Calendula oil, peppermint or chamomile tea are really great for this cooling spray!
3. Magnesium baths
For some people, soaking in water worsens eczema.For those who tolerate soaking, magnesium baths and other detoxifying baths may be helpful to heal the skin. Regularly try to put Epsom salt, magnesium flakes, and a few tablespoons of Himalayan salt in your baby bath. Popular Magnesium Bath Recipe:
1. 1-2 cups Magnesium Flakes (Magnesium Flakes are much easier to digest)
2. 1/2 cup Himalayan or sea salt
3. 1/2 teaspoon natural vanilla extract
4 …10-15 drops of your choice of essential oil (lavender and mint are best)
4. Probiotics
Probiotics and foods rich in probiotics are an element often lacking in modern diets. More and more studies are showing how gut bacteria affect our overall health. In the past, people often stored food through fermentation, which was a very good source of probiotics for them. Most foods are now “dead” and we rarely ferment them traditionally, so eating probiotic-rich foods is definitely healthy .
Probiotics can be ingested in fermented foods and beverages such as:
Tea
Kefir
Sauerkraut
Lactate fermentation of almost any vegetable using serum
5. Light therapy / phototherapy
907 helps relieve inflammation, relieves itching, increases vitamin D production, and helps suppress bacteria on the skin. Adding 10-15 minutes a day of sun exposure, especially during an eczema attack, can provide relief and potentially accelerate healing of .
6. Vitamin D
In addition to increasing sun exposure, various foods such as cod liver, sardines, salmon, eggs and quality milk can supplement vitamin D. Ideally, during an eczema outbreak, you should take 2,000-5,000 IU per day – If your exposure to sunlight is low, you should consider increasing your intake with some quality supplements. Preliminary research also suggests that low vitamin D levels during pregnancy and childhood may increase the risk of developing eczema. So focus on this vitamin in case of eczema.
7. Clear your mind and body
According to Harvard Medical School, some skin conditions, including eczema, have a psychological basis. Psychodermatology examines the relationship between physical and psychological manifestations. Researchers have found that hypnosis, mind meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, targeted breathing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and similar treatments can provide not only relief during an outbreak, but also accelerate recovery of eczema and prevent future outbreaks.
Treat your mind and body for the best results as as increased anxiety and depression can worsen symptoms and stress can trigger eczema outbreaks in many adults .
8. Dead Sea Salt
The Dead Sea is known for its healing powers, and scientists have found that Dead Sea salt bath improves skin hydration, improves skin barrier functions, reduces inflammation and exacerbates redness and inequality .Since eczema can worsen when exposed to high and low temperatures, bath water should be warm enough to prevent overcooling .
9. Cold and wet wraps
Cold and wet wraps relieve itching (in some people with eczema). In young children, moisturized pajamas can relieve itching overnight. However, if eczema has already developed into blisters, wet wrap may increase the risk of infection and should not be used.
10. Use a homemade anti-itch cream
Severe itching is often the worst manifestation of eczema. Try a natural homemade eczema cream that contains shea butter, coconut oil, quality honey and essential oils to give you the relief you need.
11. Licorice extract
Locally used licorice extract promises to reduce itching. Add a few drops of this extract to coconut oil or homemade anti-itch cream.
12. Omega-3 fatty acids
Researchers at the University of Norway have found that when fish is introduced more into the diet of young children at the age of 9 months (and fish is consumed weekly), the risk of developing eczema is dramatically reduced. omega-3 rich foods should be considered if you want to prevent eczema. During outbreaks, these products are an excellent treatment for eczema, which strengthens the immune system and speeds up healing.
Talk with your doctor about taking a fish oil supplement.Olive oil, flaxseeds, nuts, and oily fish such as salmon, sardines, herring, mackerel and tuna are good natural sources of omega-3 fatty acids .
13. Lavender Oil
In addition to intense itching, eczema also commonly causes anxiety, depression, frustration and poor sleep. Medicated lavender oil is an interesting eczema treatment that can reduce these common symptoms. Add 10 drops to 1 tablespoon of coconut oil or almond oil and rub gently on the affected skin.
14. Vitamin E
Taking 400 IU of vitamin E daily can help speed healing and reduce inflammation. In addition, topical application of vitamin E may help relieve itching and prevent scarring. Try it, it will help a lot of people.
15. Witch hazel
The use of witch hazel can promote healing due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Research has shown that a cream containing witch hazel and phosphatidylcholine can be as effective as hydrocortisone. Make sure you use a non-alcoholic witch hazel product as you don’t want to dry your skin.
16. Horsetail
Horsetail is an amazing herb for eczema because it has anti-inflammatory properties that can relieve the pain and itching of rashes. Moreover, no other plant in the entire plant world would be as rich in silicon as this old herb. Silicon is the material from which collagen is produced.Collagen is like “body glue” that gives the skin muscle tone and elasticity and is essential for the normal regeneration of healthy skin tissue. Horsetail is known to relieve itching, irritation and inflammation associated with skin conditions such as eczema.
The best way to use horsetail is with a compress:
1. Pour some water into a saucepan and then put the dried horsetail in it for about 15 minutes.
2. Let the water cool, then place a towel in the water.
3. Squeeze the towel to prevent water from flowing out.
4. Cover the affected area with a towel and leave for 20 minutes.
5. Repeat the procedure two to three times a day until the eczema improves.
17. Hemp Oil
Hemp Oil helps treat skin conditions including eczema, rashes and psoriasis. This has been shown in several studies. This oil works because it contains high amounts of fatty acids that affect the immune responses in the body – so they can promote healing.For ease of use, we recommend using cannabis oil both internally and externally. Studies have shown that consuming it helps raise the levels of essential fatty acids in the blood, which can aid in healing from the outside, and applying it to the skin can reduce dryness and itching, reducing the need for medications.
And don’t worry, the final product does not contain THC, which is the psychoactive component of the plant.
18. Use apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has long been used to soothe various skin inflammations and burns + is also a disinfectant.You can use cotton swabs to apply apple cider vinegar directly to problem areas, or apply it to large areas with a clean diaper dipped in 1 part apple cider vinegar and 1 part water.
Note: Do not use this medicine if your skin is cracked or bleeding because the vinegar will irritate you.
19. Use Aloe Vera
Pure Aloe Vera Gel is rich in anti-inflammatory and healing compounds and gives a pleasant cooling sensation on itchy skin. If you have eczema, consider growing your own aloe plants. Then you can get the gel directly from a natural source. Pure aloe vera gel can also be found at most drug stores and health food stores.
20. Try tea tree oil
For eczema, apply a few drops of tea tree oil diluted with a little olive oil. Apply ideally several times a day. This oil is useful for relieving itching of eczema (especially in mild cases of eczema).
Eczema and food – what is it and what is not?
Food YES :
· Essential Fatty Acids
· Pumpkin or Chia Seeds – These seeds contain zinc, which is essential for wound healing and fatty acid metabolism.
· Foods rich in probiotic substances – consume goat’s milk and kefir. It is a good probiotic food that helps to strengthen the intestines and the immune system, which improves the condition of eczema.
· Foods high in fiber
· Foods rich in vitamin A increase your intake of orange and yellow vegetables high in vitamin A, which are essential for healthy skin.
· Eat Turmeric – Research has clearly shown that this anti-inflammatory spice helps with a variety of skin conditions, including psoriasis or eczema. Curcumin, an antioxidant found in turmeric, protects the skin by neutralizing free radicals and shortening healing time.