10 best herbal essential oils for dermatitis

Herbal essential oils for dermatitis are natural, plant-based extracts that have been used for centuries to alleviate symptoms of skin inflammation.

These oils contain active compounds that help soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness, itching, and discomfort associated with dermatitis. For example, tea tree oil and lavender oil have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that promote healing and reduce infection.

Using these oils topically can greatly improve the quality of life for those suffering from dermatitis, allowing them to enjoy activities without the constant discomfort and embarrassment of skin irritation.

The following article describes in detail the most important essential oils for dermatitis, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Calendula officinalis

Pot marigold essential oils helps with dermatitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The oil's active compounds, such as flavonoids and saponins, help to reduce redness, itching, and swelling associated with skin conditions like eczema and dermatitis. Additionally, the oil's antimicrobial properties help to combat bacterial infections that can exacerbate dermatitis symptoms.

By applying pot marigold essential oils topically, individuals suffering from dermatitis may experience relief from discomfort and promote healthy skin regeneration.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in pot marigold essential oils that aid with dermatitis.

• Anti-inflammatory: Calendula essential oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness and swelling associated with dermatitis, providing relief from itching and discomfort.
• Antibacterial: The antibacterial properties of Calendula essential oil can help combat bacterial infections that may contribute to or exacerbate dermatitis, promoting a healthy skin environment.
• Wound-healing: Calendula essential oil has been shown to stimulate wound healing by improving tissue regeneration and collagen synthesis, which can aid in the treatment of chronic skin conditions like dermatitis.

The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make essential oils for dermatitis.

• Roots: Pot marigold roots have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making them effective in soothing and calming skin irritations associated with dermatitis.
• Flowers: Calendula flowers contain flavonoids and triterpenoids, which have potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing for dermatitis patients.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for dermatitis.

1. Harvest fresh calendula officinalis flowers at peak bloom and rinse with distilled water for optimal quality.
2. Dry the harvested flowers in a warm place away from direct sunlight until they reach a crumbly texture taking approximately 7 days.
3. Mix 200g of dried calendula officinalis flowers with 400ml of carrier oil such as sweet almond or grapeseed oil at a ratio of 1:2 and allow to macerate for 14 days.
4. Transfer the macerated mixture into a still or distillation apparatus and collect the essential oil as it separates from the plant material taking approximately 3 hours.
5. Filter the collected essential oil through a coffee filter or paper towel to remove any impurities and transfer it to a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid for storage.

2. Lavandula angustifolia

English lavender essential oils helps with dermatitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

The oil's ability to soothe and calm irritated skin reduces redness, swelling, and itching associated with dermatitis. Additionally, lavender's antioxidant properties help protect the skin from further damage and promote healthy skin cell growth.

When applied topically, the oil creates a protective barrier that promotes healing and helps to reduce symptoms of dermatitis, making it an effective natural remedy for relieving this common skin condition.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in english lavender essential oils that aid with dermatitis.

• Antibacterial and antifungal properties: These properties help to combat bacterial and fungal infections that can exacerbate dermatitis, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Lavender essential oil's anti-inflammatory compounds reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with dermatitis, providing relief from uncomfortable symptoms.
• Antioxidant properties: Lavender essential oil's antioxidants help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to skin conditions like dermatitis.

The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make essential oils for dermatitis.

• Roots: The roots of the English lavender plant contain a high concentration of sesquiterpenes, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and calm skin irritations associated with dermatitis.
• Buds: Lavender buds contain a higher concentration of linalool, a compound known for its calming and soothing effects, making them ideal for treating itchy and irritated skin caused by dermatitis.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for dermatitis.

1. Harvest fresh lavender flowers at dawn when they are fully opened and in perfect condition.
2. Dry the harvested lavender flowers by spreading them on paper towels for 7-10 days or air-drying for 4-6 weeks.
3. Fill a clean glass jar half-full with dried lavender flowers and cover with a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil at a 1:1 ratio.
4. Place the jar in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking it daily to facilitate the infusion process.
5. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container, discarding the solids and preserving the infused carrier oil.

3. Aloe vera

Aloe essential oils helps with dermatitis because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm irritated skin.

The oil's potent antioxidant compounds also reduce redness and swelling, while its natural moisturizing abilities hydrate and nourish the skin. Additionally, aloe vera has been shown to have antimicrobial properties that help combat bacterial infections, which can exacerbate dermatitis symptoms.

By applying topically, herbal aloe essential oils provide long-lasting relief from itchy, painful, and inflamed skin, promoting overall skin health and well-being.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in aloe essential oils that aid with dermatitis.

• Anti-inflammatory: Aloe vera's anti-inflammatory property helps reduce redness, swelling, and pain associated with dermatitis, allowing for quicker healing and soothing skin irritation.
• Antimicrobial: The antimicrobial property of aloe vera essential oil inhibits the growth of bacteria, fungi, and viruses that can exacerbate dermatitis symptoms, promoting healthy skin and preventing infection.
• Wound-healing: Aloe vera's wound-healing property accelerates the process of tissue repair and regeneration, helping to reduce scarring, promote collagen synthesis, and improve skin elasticity, making it an effective treatment for dermatitis wounds.

The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make essential oils for dermatitis.

• Leaves: Rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as amino acids, making it an excellent choice for soothing and calming skin irritations associated with dermatitis.
• Rhyzomes: Containing anti-inflammatory compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin, which help reduce redness, swelling, and itching caused by dermatitis.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for dermatitis.

1. Harvest fresh aloe vera leaves from a healthy plant weighing at least 10 ounces each.
2. Extract the aloe gel by cutting off the edges of the leaves and scooping out the yellow latex.
3. Combine 20 grams of dried chamomile flowers with 100ml of high-proof grain alcohol in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture for 2 weeks in a dark place, shaking daily to ensure proper infusion.
5. Filter the liquid using cheesecloth or a coffee filter and transfer it to a sterilized glass bottle.

4. Helichrysum italicum

Curry plant essential oils helps with dermatitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm irritated skin.

The oil's unique blend of compounds, including beta-caryophyllene and cymene, effectively reduce redness and swelling associated with dermatitis, providing rapid relief from discomfort.

Additionally, the antiseptic and antimicrobial qualities of curry plant essential oils help combat bacterial infections that can exacerbate dermatitis, promoting a healthy and balanced skin environment.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in curry plant essential oils that aid with dermatitis.

• Antibacterial property: Curry plant essential oil exhibits antibacterial activity, which helps to combat bacterial infections that may contribute to dermatitis, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
• Anti-inflammatory property: The anti-inflammatory compounds in curry plant essential oil help reduce redness, swelling, and pain associated with dermatitis, providing relief from irritated skin.
• Antioxidant property: Curry plant essential oil's antioxidant properties help neutralize free radicals that can damage skin cells, promoting healthy skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots commonly seen in dermatitis.

The list below shows the primary parts of curry plant used to make essential oils for dermatitis.

• Roots: The roots of the curry plant contain a high concentration of sesquiterpenes, which have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, making them effective in soothing skin irritations associated with dermatitis.
• Seeds: Curry plant seeds are rich in fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants, which help to moisturize and calm irritated skin, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic curry plant for dermatitis.

1. Harvest fresh helichrysum italicum flowers at dawn or early morning for optimal quality.
2. Dry the harvested flowers in a warm dry place or using a food dehydrator on low setting.
3. Use 20 grams of dried helichrysum italicum flowers and mix them with 100 ml of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil or jojoba oil.
4. Heat the mixture at 60°c for 2 hours to facilitate the extraction process, then strain it using cheesecloth or a coffee filter.
5. Store the resulting essential oil in a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid and use within 6 months of preparation time.

5. Melaleuca alternifolia

Tea tree essential oils helps with dermatitis because of its potent antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.

The oil contains terpinen-4-ol, which has been shown to reduce inflammation and ease symptoms of skin conditions like dermatitis. It also has the ability to penetrate deep into the skin, targeting the root cause of the issue and promoting a healthy balance of skin flora.

As a result, tea tree essential oils can provide effective relief from itching, redness, and scaling associated with dermatitis.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in tea tree essential oils that aid with dermatitis.

• Antibacterial property: Tea Tree Essential Oil's antibacterial properties help combat bacterial infections that can exacerbate dermatitis, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
• Anti-inflammatory property: The oil's anti-inflammatory properties reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with dermatitis, providing relief from discomfort and promoting skin health.
• Antioxidant property: Tea Tree Essential Oil's antioxidant properties help neutralize free radicals that can cause oxidative stress and skin damage, protecting the skin from further harm and promoting natural healing.

The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make essential oils for dermatitis.

• Leaves: Rich in cineole, a potent anti-inflammatory compound that helps soothe and calm skin irritations associated with dermatitis.
• Stems: Containing high amounts of 1,8-cineole, which exhibits antiseptic properties, making it effective in reducing inflammation and preventing bacterial infections that can exacerbate dermatitis.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for dermatitis.

1. Harvest fresh melaleuca alternifolia leaves in the morning after dewfall, collecting approximately 100 grams of foliage.
2. Wash the collected leaves thoroughly with distilled water to remove impurities, followed by gentle agitation and rinsing with filtered water.
3. Combine the washed leaves with carrier oil such as sweet almond or grapeseed oil at a ratio of 1:4, allowing it to steep for 6 hours under shade.
4. Strain the mixture using cheesecloth or a coffee filter, squeezing gently to extract the essential oils from the plant material, discarding solids and collecting the clear liquid.
5. Transfer the extracted essential oil into dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids, storing them in a cool place for at least 24 hours before use to allow the flavors to mature.

6. Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile essential oils helps with dermatitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

When applied topically, it can calm redness and irritation associated with dermatitis, reducing the appearance of inflammation and discomfort. The oil's antioxidant properties also help to protect the skin from further damage, promoting a healthy and balanced skin environment.

Additionally, chamomile essential oils have been shown to reduce itching and scratching behaviors, providing relief for individuals suffering from this chronic skin condition.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in chamomile essential oils that aid with dermatitis.

• Anti-inflammatory property: Chamomile essential oil reduces inflammation and swelling associated with dermatitis, soothing itchy and irritated skin.
• Antioxidant property: Chamomile essential oil neutralizes free radicals, preventing damage to skin cells caused by oxidative stress and promoting healing in dermatitis-prone areas.
• Anti-irritant property: Chamomile essential oil calms and soothes irritated skin, reducing redness and discomfort associated with dermatitis, while also providing a gentle and non-irritating treatment for sensitive skin.

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make essential oils for dermatitis.

• Flowers: The delicate flowers are rich in apigenin, an anti-inflammatory compound that helps soothe and calm skin irritated by dermatitis.
• Roots: The roots contain camomilin, a sesquiterpene lactone that has been traditionally used to reduce inflammation and relieve itching associated with dermatitis.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for dermatitis.

1. Harvest 20% of matricaria chamomilla flowers from a healthy plant when they are in full bloom for three days.
2. Dry the harvested flowers by spreading them thinly on a paper bag and leaving them for seven to ten days.
3. Crush 100 grams of dried chamomile flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
4. Steam distill the crushed chamomile flowers with 200 milliliters of water at 100 degrees celsius for one hour.
5. Filter the distilled mixture through cheesecloth or coffee filter papers to separate the essential oil from the plant material.

7. Urtica dioica

Stinging nettle essential oils helps with dermatitis because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The oil contains a compound called beta-sitosterol, which has been shown to reduce inflammation and soothe skin irritations associated with dermatitis. Additionally, the antioxidants present in the oil help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, promoting healthy skin cell regeneration and reducing redness and itching.

This natural remedy can provide effective relief for individuals suffering from various types of dermatitis, including atopic and contact dermatitis.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in stinging nettle essential oils that aid with dermatitis.

• Anti-inflammatory property: Stinging nettle essential oil has potent anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with dermatitis, thereby providing relief to irritated skin.
• Antioxidant property: Nettle essential oil is rich in antioxidants that neutralize free radicals, which can damage skin cells and exacerbate dermatitis; its antioxidant properties help protect the skin from further irritation and promote healing.
• Anti-allergic property: Stinging nettle essential oil has natural anti-allergic compounds that can help reduce allergic reactions and hypersensitivity responses that often occur with dermatitis, thereby calming and soothing the affected area.

The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make essential oils for dermatitis.

• Roots: Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, making them effective against skin irritation and inflammation associated with dermatitis.
• Leaves: Abundant in vitamins A and E, as well as iron, which help soothe and calm irritated skin while promoting healing.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for dermatitis.

1. Harvest fresh nettle leaves in the morning when they are at their peak potency and have not been exposed to direct sunlight or pesticides.
2. Rinse the harvested nettles with distilled water to remove any impurities and debris from the environment.
3. Steam-distill 500g of the rinsed nettle leaves using a still with 1 liter of high-proof grain alcohol for 90 minutes to extract the essential oil.
4. Filter the resulting distillate through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle, discarding any solids and preserving the clear liquid.
5. Store the final urtica dioica essential oil in a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid, away from direct sunlight and heat sources, for up to 6 months.

8. Echinacea angustifolia

Kansas coneflower essential oils helps with dermatitis because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which work together to soothe and calm irritated skin.

The oil's compounds, such as echinacea and other bioactive molecules, penetrate deep into the skin to reduce redness and swelling, while also inhibiting the growth of bacteria and fungi that can exacerbate dermatitis symptoms.

This natural remedy provides effective relief from itching, scratching, and discomfort associated with this chronic condition, promoting a healthy and balanced skin environment.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in kansas coneflower essential oils that aid with dermatitis.

• Anti-inflammatory: Echinacea has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and swelling associated with dermatitis.
• Antioxidant: Echinacea contains antioxidants that can help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to the development of dermatitis.
• Immunomodulatory: Some studies suggest that Echinacea may have immunomodulatory effects, meaning it can help regulate the immune response and reduce inflammation in the skin.

The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make essential oils for dermatitis.

• Roots: The roots of the Kansas coneflower contain compounds like beta-amyrin and oleanolic acid, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and calm skin irritations associated with dermatitis.
• Seeds: Kansas coneflower seeds are rich in fatty acids and contain saponins, which can help to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing, making them an effective ingredient for dermatitis essential oils.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for dermatitis.

1. Harvest fresh echinacea angustifolia leaves and stems from a clean organic field and sort them for quality.
2. Dry the harvested plant material in a well-ventilated area at room temperature or using a dehydrator for 12 hours.
3. Steam distill 100 grams of dried echinacea angustifolia plant material with 500 milliliters of water for 2 hours and 30 minutes.
4. Separate the essential oil from the distilled condensate using a separatory funnel and store it in an amber glass vial at room temperature for up to 6 months.
5. Mix 10 milliliters of the echinacea angustifolia essential oil with 1 liter of carrier oil such as coconut or jojoba oil and apply topically to affected dermatitis areas twice daily.

9. Geranium maculatum

Wild geranium essential oils helps with dermatitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The oil has been traditionally used to soothe skin irritations, reducing redness and swelling associated with dermatitis. Its antimicrobial properties also help to combat underlying infections that can exacerbate the condition.

Additionally, wild geranium essential oil's ability to balance the skin's pH levels helps to reduce inflammation and promote a healthy skin environment, making it an effective natural remedy for alleviating symptoms of dermatitis.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in wild geranium essential oils that aid with dermatitis.

• Anti-inflammatory properties: Geranium essential oil has been shown to reduce inflammation, which can help alleviate symptoms of dermatitis such as redness, swelling, and itching.
• Antimicrobial properties: The oil's antimicrobial activity can help combat bacterial or fungal infections that may contribute to dermatitis, promoting wound healing and preventing further irritation.
• Soothing and calming effects: Geranium essential oil has a calming and soothing effect on the skin, which can help reduce itching, discomfort, and anxiety associated with dermatitis.

The list below shows the primary parts of wild geranium used to make essential oils for dermatitis.

• Roots: Rich in bioactive compounds, roots are used to create a soothing and anti-inflammatory oil that can calm skin irritations and reduce redness associated with dermatitis.
• Leaves: The leaves contain high levels of antioxidants and flavonoids, which help to reduce inflammation, promote wound healing, and provide natural protection against skin infections.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wild geranium for dermatitis.

1. Harvest fresh geranium maculatum leaves and flowers in the morning when the dew is still present on the plant.
2. Wash the harvested material gently with lukewarm water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Dry the washed plant material by spreading it out in a single layer on paper towels or clean cloth for 24 hours.
4. Use a steam distillation apparatus to extract the essential oil from the dried plant material at a temperature of 100-105°c and pressure of 1 bar for 2 hours.
5. Filter the extracted essential oil through a coffee filter or paper filter into a dark glass bottle, allowing it to mature for 2 weeks before use.

10. Thymus vulgaris

Thyme essential oils helps with dermatitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The oil's compounds, such as thymol and carvacrol, have been shown to reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with dermatitis. Additionally, thyme essential oil has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties, which can help combat skin infections that often exacerbate the condition.

By incorporating thyme essential oils into a topical treatment or diffusing it in the air, individuals may experience relief from the symptoms of dermatitis and improved overall skin health.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in thyme essential oils that aid with dermatitis.

• Antimicrobial properties: Thyme essential oil has antimicrobial properties that can help combat bacterial, fungal, and viral infections that can contribute to dermatitis, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Thyme essential oil's anti-inflammatory compounds, such as thymol and carvacrol, can help reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with dermatitis, providing relief from discomfort.
• Antioxidant properties: Thyme essential oil's antioxidant properties can help neutralize free radicals that can cause oxidative stress and skin damage, promoting overall skin health and reducing the severity of dermatitis symptoms.

The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make essential oils for dermatitis.

• Roots: Thyme roots are rich in bioactive compounds that help soothe and calm irritated skin, making them ideal for treating dermatitis.
• Leaves: Thyme leaves contain potent antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that reduce redness, itching, and swelling associated with dermatitis.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for dermatitis.

1. Harvest fresh thymus vulgaris leaves from your garden or obtain them from a reputable supplier.
2. Clean the harvested leaves by gently rinsing them with distilled water and pat dry with paper towels within an hour.
3. Steam distill the clean thymus vulgaris leaves using a high-quality distillation apparatus for 4-6 hours.
4. Collect the obtained essential oil and filter it through a coffee filter or cheesecloth to remove any impurities within 30 minutes of collection.
5. Store the filtered thymus vulgaris essential oil in a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting cap, keeping it away from direct sunlight and heat for up to 6 months.

How to best treat dermatitis with herbal essential oils?

The best way to treat dermatitis with herbal essential oils is to mix a few drops of calendula oil with coconut or olive oil to create a soothing balm.

Apply it topically to affected areas three times a day to reduce inflammation and promote healing.

Additionally, add a few drops of lavender oil to the blend for its calming effects and to help regulate skin pH levels.

What ailments similar to dermatitis are treated with herbal essential oils?

Ailments similar to dermatitis that are treated with herbal essential oils are eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea.

Tea tree oil, lavender oil, and chamomile oil are commonly used to soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.

These oils can also help to reduce itching and redness associated with these conditions, providing relief and promoting overall skin health.