Updated: Nov 30, 2024
11 Herbal Creams For Eczema
Herbal creams for eczema are becoming increasingly popular as a natural alternative to conventional treatments.
These creams often contain soothing herbs like Aloe barbadensis, also known as aloe vera, which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Aloe vera gel helps to calm the skin, reducing redness and itching associated with eczema. Another herb commonly used in eczema creams is Calendula officinalis, or marigold, which has antimicrobial properties that help to prevent infections and promote wound healing. Symphytum officinalis, or comfrey, is also used in some creams, as it has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe and calm the skin.
When we use herbal creams to relieve eczema, we're not just treating the skin - we're also addressing the underlying causes of the condition. Eczema is often linked to inflammation, and herbs like aloe vera and comfrey have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce this inflammation and promote healing. By using herbal creams, we can help to calm the skin, reduce itching and redness, and promote the healing process. This can bring a range of benefits to our lives, from improved skin health to reduced stress and anxiety.
With regular use, herbal creams can also help to reduce the frequency and severity of eczema flare-ups, making it easier to manage the condition and enjoy a better quality of life.
This article explains in detail what are the best herbal teas for eczema and wh.
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Table of Contents
1. Aloe barbadensis
Aloe barbadensis creams contains two main bioactive constituents: aloe-emodin and aloin.
These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce redness and swelling often associated with eczema. The cream also contains vitamins A, C, and E, as well as beta-carotene, which have antioxidant properties that protect the skin from damage and promote healing. The aloe vera gel in the cream has a soothing effect on the skin, reducing irritation and itching caused by eczema.
The moisturizing properties of the cream help to lock in moisture and soothe dry, itchy skin, providing relief from eczema symptoms.
- Gather ingredients: 1 cup distilled water, 1/2 cup aloe vera gel, 2 tablespoons coconut oil, 2 tablespoons beeswax, 2 tablespoons shea butter, 2 teaspoons vitamin E oil.
- Melt coconut oil and beeswax in a double boiler or a heat-proof bowl set over a pot of simmering water.
- Add shea butter to the melted mixture and stir until combined.
- Remove the mixture from heat and stir in aloe vera gel and vitamin E oil until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a clean glass jar and let it cool and solidify before use.
2. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis creams contains carotenoids, flavonoids, and triterpenoid saponins, which are responsible for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The carotenoids in Calendula officinalis creams help to reduce redness and inflammation in the skin, which is common in eczema sufferers. The flavonoids, particularly quercetin, have been shown to have antioxidant properties, which help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. The triterpenoid saponins in Calendula officinalis creams have been found to have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help to reduce the severity of eczema symptoms.
By reducing inflammation and promoting healing, Calendula officinalis creams can help to soothe and calm eczema-prone skin.
- Gather 1 cup of dried Calendula flowers and 1/2 cup of carrier oil (like coconut or olive oil) in a clean glass bowl.
- Combine the dried flowers and carrier oil, then store it in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the bowl every day.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean bowl, discarding the solids.
- Add 2 tablespoons of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of shea butter to the oil mixture, then heat it in a double boiler until the wax and butter melt.
- Remove the bowl from the heat, let it cool for 10 minutes, then pour the mixture into small containers and let it cool completely before use.
3. Symphytum officinale
Symphytum officinale creams contains symphytum, a plant-based ingredient that helps with eczema symptoms.
The active constituents, allantoin and mucilage, have anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and calm irritated skin. Allantoin helps to break down dead skin cells and promote new skin growth, reducing inflammation and redness. Mucilage, a thick and protective gel, creates a barrier on the skin's surface, locking in moisture and shielding it from irritants.
By providing these protective and soothing benefits, Symphytum officinale creams can help to reduce eczema symptoms and promote healthy skin.
- Gather 1 cup of dried Symphytum officinale (comfrey) leaves and flowers, 1/2 cup of coconut oil, 1/4 cup of beeswax, 2 tablespoons of shea butter, and 2 tablespoons of vitamin E oil.
- Steep the dried comfrey in 2 cups of boiling water for 10-15 minutes. Strain and set aside to cool.
- Melt the coconut oil and beeswax in a double boiler or a heat-proof bowl set over a pot of simmering water.
- Add the cooled comfrey liquid, shea butter, and vitamin E oil to the melted coconut oil mixture. Stir until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a clean, sterilized container and let it cool and solidify. Once set, use as a cream for eczema.
4. Melaleuca alternifolia
Melaleuca alternifolia creams contains an active compound called terpinen-4-ol, which is known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
This compound helps to reduce the growth of bacteria and fungi that can cause eczema, and also reduces inflammation and redness. The cream also contains other active compounds such as cineole and α-terpineol, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. These properties help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing the symptoms of eczema such as itching and irritation.
By reducing inflammation and killing bacteria and fungi, Melaleuca alternifolia creams can help to promote healing and reduce the severity of eczema symptoms.
- Gather ingredients: 1 cup of distilled water, 1/4 cup of beeswax, 2 tablespoons of coconut oil, 2 tablespoons of shea butter, 10 drops of Melaleuca alternifolia essential oil, 1 teaspoon of vitamin E oil.
- Melt beeswax and coconut oil in a double boiler or a heat-proof bowl set over a pot of simmering water.
- Add shea butter to the melted mixture and stir until it's fully incorporated.
- Remove the mixture from heat and let it cool slightly. Add distilled water and stir until the mixture thickens.
- Add Melaleuca alternifolia essential oil and vitamin E oil to the mixture. Pour it into a container and let it cool completely before use.
5. Urtica dioica
Urtica dioica creams contains histamine, polysaccharides, and flavonoids, which are active compounds that help soothe and calm irritated skin.
Histamine has anti-inflammatory properties, reducing redness and swelling associated with eczema. Polysaccharides in the cream have a moisturizing effect, helping to lock in moisture and protect the skin from further irritation. Flavonoids, particularly quercetin, have antioxidant properties that help neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammation.
By combining these properties, Urtica dioica creams can help to reduce the severity of eczema symptoms and promote healthier-looking skin.
- Gather 1 cup of fresh Urtica dioica (nettle) leaves and flowers, and 1 cup of coconut oil in a blender.
- Blend the nettle leaves and flowers until they are well mixed and the leaves are finely chopped.
- Heat 1/4 cup of coconut oil in a saucepan over low heat. Pour the blended nettle mixture into the oil and stir well.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for 10 minutes. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a bowl, squeezing out as much liquid as possible.
- Mix 1/4 cup of shea butter and 2 tablespoons of beeswax into the strained nettle liquid. Pour the mixture into a jar and refrigerate until it hardens.
6. Hypericum perforatum
Hypericum perforatum creams contains hyperforin and hypericin, two active constituents that help soothe eczema.
Hyperforin has anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce redness and swelling in the skin. Hypericin has antiseptic properties, which help prevent infection and promote wound healing. The cream also contains flavonoids and tannins, which have antioxidant properties that protect the skin from damage.
By reducing inflammation, preventing infection, and protecting the skin, Hypericum perforatum creams can help alleviate eczema symptoms.
- Gather 1 cup of dried Hypericum perforatum flowers, 1 cup of coconut oil, 1/2 cup of beeswax, 2 tablespoons of vitamin E oil, and 2 tablespoons of essential oil (optional).
- Melt the coconut oil and beeswax in a double boiler or a heat-proof bowl set over a pot of simmering water.
- Add the dried Hypericum perforatum flowers to the melted oil mixture and let it steep for 2-3 hours or overnight.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, discarding the solids.
- Add the vitamin E oil and essential oil (if using) to the mixture and stir well. Pour the mixture into a tin or a jar and let it cool and harden.
7. Chamomilla recutita
Chamomilla recutita creams contains apigenin and luteolin, which are two key bioactive constituents that help soothe and calm eczema.
These flavonoids have anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce redness and swelling associated with eczema. Chamazulene, another active compound in Chamomilla recutita, has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to prevent infections and promote healing. The anti-inflammatory properties of these compounds also help reduce itchiness and discomfort caused by eczema.
By reducing inflammation and preventing infections, Chamomilla recutita creams can help alleviate the symptoms of eczema and promote healthy skin.
- Gather 1 cup of dried Chamomilla recutita flowers, 1/2 cup of coconut oil, and 1/4 cup of beeswax.
- Heat the coconut oil in a double boiler or a heat-proof bowl over a pot of simmering water.
- Add the dried Chamomilla recutita flowers to the coconut oil and let it infuse for 2-3 hours.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, discarding the solids.
- Mix in the melted beeswax and stir until well combined. Pour the mixture into a tin or jar and let it cool and solidify.
8. Echinacea purpurea
Echinacea purpurea creams contains a combination of active constituents, including alkylamides, caffeic acid derivatives, and polyphenols.
These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness and swelling associated with eczema. The flavonoids and phenolic acids in Echinacea purpurea also have antioxidant effects, which can help soothe and protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. Additionally, the polysaccharides present in the cream may help modulate the immune system, reducing the severity of eczema symptoms.
By applying Echinacea purpurea creams to the affected skin, individuals may experience relief from eczema symptoms, such as itching and dryness.
- Gather ingredients: 1 cup of dried Echinacea purpurea flowers, 1/2 cup of coconut oil, 1/4 cup of beeswax, 2 tablespoons of shea butter, and 10 drops of vitamin E oil.
- Steep 1 cup of dried Echinacea purpurea flowers in 2 cups of boiling water for 10-15 minutes. Let it cool, then strain the liquid.
- In a small saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of coconut oil and 1/4 cup of beeswax over low heat. Stir until melted.
- Add 2 tablespoons of shea butter and 10 drops of vitamin E oil to the melted mixture. Stir until combined.
- Slowly add the cooled Echinacea liquid to the melted mixture. Stir well and pour into a container. Let it cool and harden before use.
9. Arnica montana
Arnica montana creams contains bioactive constituents like sesquiterpene lactones, flavonoids, and phenolic acids.
These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce redness and swelling associated with eczema. The sesquiterpene lactones, specifically helenalin and iso-helenalin, have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby alleviating eczema symptoms. The flavonoids present in Arnica montana creams have antioxidant properties, which help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.
By reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, Arnica montana creams can help soothe and calm eczema-prone skin.
- Gather ingredients: 1 cup of Arnica montana flowers, 1/2 cup of coconut oil, 1/4 cup of beeswax, 2 tablespoons of shea butter, and 2 tablespoons of vitamin E oil.
- Dry the Arnica montana flowers in a low-temperature oven (150°F) for 2 hours. Let them cool.
- Melt the coconut oil and beeswax in a double boiler or a microwave-safe bowl in 10-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
- Add the dried Arnica montana flowers, shea butter, and vitamin E oil to the melted mixture. Stir well.
- Pour the mixture into a container and let it cool and solidify. Once set, use a spoon to scoop out the Arnica montana cream and apply to eczema-affected areas.
10. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra creams contains active constituents like glycyrrhetic acid, flavonoids, and saponins.
These compounds have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help to reduce redness and irritation in eczema-affected skin. Glycyrrhetic acid, in particular, has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, which contribute to the development of eczema symptoms. Additionally, the saponins in Glycyrrhiza glabra creams have been found to have antimicrobial properties, which can help to prevent infections that can exacerbate eczema.
By reducing inflammation and preventing infections, Glycyrrhiza glabra creams can help to promote healing and soothe eczema-prone skin.
- Gather ingredients: 2 cups of distilled water, 1 cup of glycerin, 1/4 cup of beeswax, 2 tablespoons of coconut oil, 2 tablespoons of shea butter, 10 drops of glycyrrhiza glabra essential oil, and 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel.
- Melt beeswax and coconut oil in a double boiler or a heat-proof bowl set over a pot of simmering water. Stir until melted and smooth.
- In a separate bowl, mix glycerin, shea butter, and aloe vera gel until well combined.
- Slowly add the glycerin mixture to the melted beeswax mixture, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.
- Add glycyrrhiza glabra essential oil and mix well. Pour the mixture into a container and let cool completely before use. Store in a cool place.
11. Taraxacum officinale
Taraxacum officinale creams contains bioactive constituents like inulin, saponins, and flavonoids.
These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help soothe and calm the skin. The inulin in Taraxacum officinale creams also has a hydrating effect, locking moisture into the skin and reducing dryness and irritation. The saponins in the cream have a gentle cleansing action, removing dirt and impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils.
The flavonoids, particularly quercetin, have a strong anti-inflammatory effect, reducing redness and swelling associated with eczema.
- Gather ingredients: 1 cup of dried Taraxacum officinale flowers, 1/2 cup of coconut oil, 1/4 cup of beeswax, 2 tablespoons of shea butter, and 10 drops of lavender essential oil.
- Combine dried flowers and coconut oil in a saucepan and heat on low for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Strain the mixture and discard the flowers. Add beeswax and shea butter, and melt in the saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes. Stir in lavender essential oil. Pour the mixture into a container and let it cool and solidify.
- Once solid, your Taraxacum officinale cream is ready to use. Apply a small amount to affected skin and massage gently.
FAQ
Can drinking herbal tea prevent eczema from forming?
Drinking herbal tea may help soothe and calm the skin, which can be beneficial for people prone to eczema.
Some herbal teas, like chamomile and peppermint, have anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce redness and itching associated with eczema.
These teas may also help keep the skin hydrated and calm.
Is it safe to consume herbal teas for eczema every day?
Consuming herbal teas for eczema daily can be safe if you choose teas with soothing properties.
However, some herbs can interact with medications or worsen symptoms. It's essential to select teas that are gentle and calming, such as peppermint or chamomile, and monitor your body's reaction.
Start with small amounts to ensure you're not sensitive to any ingredients.
How long does it take for herbal teas to show results in eczema?
Herbal teas can help with eczema, but it's hard to say exactly when you'll see results.
Some people notice a difference after a few days, while others may take a week or two.
It really depends on the person and the type of tea they're drinking.