10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Eczema

Herbal decoctions for eczema are a natural remedy made by steeping herbs in hot water to create a potent liquid extract.

These decoctions help alleviate symptoms of eczema, such as itching and inflammation, by soothing the skin and reducing irritation. Examples include chamomile, calendula, and marshmallow root decoctions, which have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that calm and protect the skin.

By using herbal decoctions for eczema, individuals can enjoy relief from uncomfortable symptoms, improved sleep quality, and increased confidence in their own skin.

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

1. Aloe vera

Aloe decoctions helps with eczema because they offer a natural and soothing solution for this chronic skin condition.

The anti-inflammatory properties of aloe vera help reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with eczema. Additionally, the gel's moisturizing effects hydrate the skin, calming dryness and irritation.

By promoting healthy skin barrier function, aloe decoctions can also aid in repairing damaged skin tissue, ultimately reducing the severity and frequency of eczema flare-ups.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera decoctions that help with eczema.

• Anthraquinones: These compounds help reduce inflammation and promote wound healing by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and enhancing the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines.
• Fatty acids: These unsaturated fatty acids help reduce inflammation and promote skin hydration by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and improving the barrier function of the skin.
• Polysaccharides: These complex carbohydrates help soothe and calm the skin by reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing through the stimulation of collagen synthesis and the enhancement of the skin's natural barrier function.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make decoctions for eczema.

• Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part of Aloe vera for eczema treatment, as they contain high amounts of gel and other compounds that soothe and moisturize the skin.
• Flowers: Aloe vera flowers are used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce redness and swelling associated with eczema.
• Stems: The stems of Aloe vera are used for their gel content, which is rich in vitamins and minerals that help to heal and protect the skin from eczema symptoms.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 10-12 ounces of aloe vera leaves and 2 cups of water for the decoction.
2. Chop the aloe vera leaves into small pieces and add them to a saucepan with 2 cups of water.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat for 10-15 minutes or until the liquid reduces slightly.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture steep for 30-40 minutes to allow the aloe vera to infuse.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container.

2. Calendula officinalis

Pot marigold decoctions helps with eczema because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which calm irritated skin and reduce redness.

The decoction's antimicrobial agents also help to combat bacteria and other pathogens that can exacerbate eczema symptoms.

Additionally, the natural antioxidants present in pot marigold have been shown to protect against environmental stressors that can trigger eczema flares, promoting healthy skin and reducing the severity of this chronic condition.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis decoctions that help with eczema.

• Triterpenoids: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing the severity of eczema symptoms.
• Flavonoids: As a potent antioxidant, Quercetin helps protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, reducing inflammation and promoting healing in eczema-prone skin.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce redness, itching, and swelling associated with eczema, promoting a more balanced skin environment.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make decoctions for eczema.

• Flowers: The flowers are used to make decoctions for eczema due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
• Leaves: The leaves are used to make decoctions for eczema because they contain flavonoids and terpenoids that help soothe and calm irritated skin.
• Roots: The roots are used to make decoctions for eczema as they contain saponins and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 2 tablespoons of dried calendula officinalis flowers and 4 cups of water in a saucepan.
2. Combine the dried flowers with the water in the saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 to 20 minutes or until the liquid reduces by half.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove the flowers.
5. Store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.

3. Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile decoctions helps with eczema because of its soothing, anti-inflammatory properties that calm irritated skin.

The apigenin in chamomile binds to skin receptors, reducing redness and swelling. Additionally, chamomile's antihistamine effects alleviate itching and discomfort associated with eczema flare-ups. The antioxidant properties of chamomile also help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, promoting healthy skin cells and tissue repair.

Overall, chamomile decoctions provide a natural, gentle way to calm and soothe irritated skin, providing relief for those suffering from eczema.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla decoctions that help with eczema.

• Apigenin: An apigenin, a flavonoid compound, helps with eczema by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress through its antioxidant properties.
• Α-bisabolol: α-Bisabolol, a sesquiterpene alcohol, is effective in soothing skin irritations and reducing inflammation, which can help alleviate eczema symptoms.
• Chamazulene: Chamazulene, an isobezoic derivative, exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce redness and swelling associated with eczema.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make decoctions for eczema.

• Flowers: These are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of apigenin, an anti-inflammatory compound that helps soothe eczema symptoms.
• Seeds: Matricaria chamomilla seeds contain a high amount of essential oils, particularly chamazulene, which has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that aid in treating eczema.
• Leaves: The leaves of Matricaria chamomilla contain flavonoids and terpenoids that help reduce inflammation and itching associated with eczema.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 20 grams of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers and rinse them with cold water.
2. Combine the dried flowers with 500 milliliters of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it steep for 5 to 10 minutes.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
5. Store the decoction in the refrigerator and consume within 24 hours or freeze for later use.

4. Urtica dioica

Stinging nettle decoctions helps with eczema because they possess anti-inflammatory properties that reduce redness, itching, and swelling associated with the condition.

The decoctions also contain antioxidants that combat oxidative stress and promote skin health.

Additionally, stinging nettle's rich concentration of vitamins A and C, as well as its ability to inhibit mast cell activation, further contribute to its soothing and calming effects on irritated skin, making it a natural and effective remedy for eczema relief.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica decoctions that help with eczema.

• Furanocoumarins: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce skin inflammation and oxidative stress associated with eczema.
• Polysaccharides: Urtica dioica polysaccharides have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help regulate the immune response and reduce eczema symptoms.
• Flavonoids: Quercetin, a flavonoid found in Urtica dioica, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate eczema symptoms by reducing inflammation and protecting against oxidative damage.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make decoctions for eczema.

• Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high content of anti-inflammatory compounds like histamine and quercetin, which help soothe and calm eczema symptoms.
• Stems: The stems contain similar anti-inflammatory compounds as the leaves and are often used in decoctions to provide relief from itching and inflammation associated with eczema.
• Roots: The roots of Urtica dioica are used in decoctions to provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and promote skin healing in eczema sufferers.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 25 to 50 grams of fresh leaves and stems of the plant in the morning.
2. Chop the harvested plant material into small pieces using a sharp knife or scissors.
3. Combine the chopped plant material with 500 milliliters of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
4. Allow the mixture to steep for 5 to 10 minutes or until it reaches a temperature of 95 degrees fahrenheit.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

5. Symphytum officinale

Comfrey decoctions helps with eczema because of its remarkable anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

The plant's allantoin content has been shown to promote skin regeneration, reducing redness and irritation associated with eczema. Additionally, comfrey's mucilage provides a protective barrier on the skin's surface, locking in moisture and reducing dryness.

This dual action helps to calm and comfort itchy, inflamed skin, promoting a more balanced and healthy complexion.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Symphytum officinale decoctions that help with eczema.

• Alkaloids: Alkaloids present in Symphytum officinale decoctions, such as symphtine and anagalline, have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help reduce the severity of eczema symptoms.
• Terpenoids: Terpenoids, including flavonoids and phenolic compounds, in Symphytum officinale decoctions have antioxidant properties that can help soothe and protect the skin, reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing in eczema-prone skin.
• Saponins: Saponins in Symphytum officinale decoctions have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce skin irritation and prevent secondary infections often associated with eczema.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of comfrey used to make decoctions for eczema.

• Leaves: Rich in mucilages, which help soothe and calm the skin.
• Roots: Contain anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce redness and itching associated with eczema.
• Stems: Similar to the leaves, stems also contain mucilages that provide skin soothing benefits.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic comfrey for eczema.

1. Harvest 1-2 ounces of fresh symphytum officinale leaves and stems for decoction preparation.
2. Clean and chop the harvested plant material into smaller pieces to release its medicinal properties.
3. Combine 1-2 ounces of the chopped plant material with 32 ounces of water in a saucepan.
4. Boil the mixture for 5-10 minutes to extract the active compounds from the plant material.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the plant residue.

6. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion decoctions helps with eczema because of its anti-inflammatory and antihistaminic properties, which soothe and calm irritated skin.

The plant's antioxidants also help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, making it an effective natural remedy for eczema. Additionally, dandelion is a gentle and non-irritating herb that won't exacerbate the condition.

By drinking dandelion decoctions regularly, individuals with eczema can experience relief from itching, redness, and dryness, promoting healthier and more balanced skin.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale decoctions that help with eczema.

• Flavonoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and itching associated with eczema.
• Phenolic acids: They possess antioxidant properties, which can help protect the skin from oxidative stress and promote healing of eczema lesions.
• Taraxasterol: This triterpenoid has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help alleviate symptoms of eczema, such as itching and skin inflammation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make decoctions for eczema.

• Leaves: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that can help soothe and calm eczema symptoms.
• Roots: The roots are utilized for their high content of taraxasterol, which has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antipruritic properties that can help alleviate eczema symptoms.
• Flowers: The flowers are used due to their high concentration of flavonoids, which possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce eczema inflammation and promote skin healing.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for eczema.

1. Harvest 20-30 taraxacum officinale roots with a sharp knife or spade in late summer or early fall.
2. Wash the roots thoroughly in cold running water to remove dirt and debris.
3. Chop the roots into small pieces and then grind them into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
4. Combine 1 teaspoon of the taraxacum officinale powder with 1 cup of boiling water to make a decoction.
5. Allow the decoction to simmer for 10-15 minutes before straining it through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve.

7. Hypericum perforatum

St John's Wort Decoctions Helps with Eczema Because it has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness and swelling associated with eczema.

The decoction also contains antioxidants that help to reduce oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals, which can exacerbate eczema symptoms.

Additionally, St John's Wort has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties that can prevent infection and promote a healthy skin microbiome, further aiding in the relief of eczema symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum decoctions that help with eczema.

• Naphthodianthrones: These compounds, particularly hypericin and pseudohypericin, exhibit potent anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with eczema.
• Flavonoids: Hypericum perforatum contains various flavonoids, such as quercetin and kaempferol, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that can help soothe and calm skin inflammation, reducing eczema symptoms.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds, including caffeic acid and ferulic acid, have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate eczema symptoms by reducing inflammation and promoting skin health.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make decoctions for eczema.

• Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part of Hypericum perforatum due to their high concentration of flavonoids, which are known to have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties beneficial for eczema treatment.
• Flowers: The flowers are used for their high content of flavonoids and naphthoquinones, which help to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing in eczema patients.
• Roots: The roots of Hypericum perforatum are used for their high concentration of bioflavonoids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that aid in soothing eczema symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for eczema.

1. Harvest 25-50 grams of fresh hypericum perforatum flowers and leaves at the peak of blooming in late summer.
2. Dry the harvested material in a dark place at 30-40 degrees celsius for 1-2 weeks.
3. Crush 10-20 grams of dried material into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
4. Combine the powder with 250 milliliters of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
5. Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes then strain and discard the solids.

8. Tilia cordata

Littleleaf linden decoctions helps with eczema because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm itchy skin.

The decoction's flavonoids and terpenes work to reduce redness and swelling, providing relief from discomfort. Additionally, the antimicrobial properties of littleleaf linden help to prevent bacterial infections that can exacerbate eczema symptoms.

By reducing inflammation and fighting infection, littleleaf linden decoctions offer a natural way to manage eczema symptoms and promote overall skin health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Tilia cordata decoctions that help with eczema.

• Flavonoids: Help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the skin, which are key factors contributing to eczema symptoms.
• Tannins: Exhibit anti-inflammatory and astringent properties, which can help soothe and protect the skin from further irritation and reduce eczema symptoms.
• Terpenoids: Possess potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation, itching, and redness associated with eczema.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of littleleaf linden used to make decoctions for eczema.

• Leaves: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help to reduce itching and irritation associated with eczema.
• Buds: They are used for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to prevent infection and reduce inflammation in eczema-prone skin.
• Flowers: They are used due to their calming and soothing effects, which can help to reduce stress and promote relaxation, thereby alleviating eczema symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic littleleaf linden for eczema.

1. Harvest 2-3 handfuls of tilia cordata leaves and flowers from a trusted source in the morning.
2. Dry the harvested material in a warm and well-ventilated area for 7-10 days.
3. Combine the dried tilia cordata material with 1 liter of water and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and let the decoction simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine mesh into a clean container.

9. Cinchona officinalis

Jesuit's bark decoctions helps with eczema because it contains berberine, a natural anti-inflammatory compound that reduces skin irritation and redness.

The decoction also exhibits antimicrobial properties, which help to combat bacterial overgrowth on the skin that can exacerbate eczema symptoms.

Additionally, the soothing properties of Jesuit's bark help to calm and hydrate the skin, reducing itching and discomfort associated with eczema.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinchona officinalis decoctions that help with eczema.

• Quinine alkaloid: Quinine helps reduce inflammation and itching associated with eczema by inhibiting the release of histamine, a chemical mediator that contributes to allergic reactions.
• Quinic acid: Quinic acid exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which may help soothe and calm irritated skin in eczema patients, reducing redness and discomfort.
• Cinchonine alkaloid: Cinchonine has been shown to possess antiseptic and antimicrobial properties, helping to prevent secondary infections that can exacerbate eczema symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of jesuit's bark used to make decoctions for eczema.

• Leaves: The leaves of Cinchona officinalis are used to make decoctions for eczema due to their high alkaloid content, specifically quinine, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Barks: The barks of Cinchona officinalis are used to make decoctions for eczema due to their ability to reduce inflammation and itching associated with the condition.
• Roots: The roots of Cinchona officinalis are used to make decoctions for eczema due to their antioxidant properties, which help to soothe and calm irritated skin.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic jesuit's bark for eczema.

1. Harvest approximately 1/2 cup of dried cinchona officinalis bark from well-maintained, organic sources.
2. Crush the bark into smaller pieces using a mortar and pestle to enhance extraction efficiency.
3. Combine 2 teaspoons of crushed bark with 1 quart of boiling water in a large saucepan.
4. Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes, then strain the liquid using a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve.
5. Store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.

10. Melissa officinalis

Lemon balm decoctions helps with eczema because of its anti-inflammatory and antihistaminic properties, which soothe and calm irritated skin.

The herbal remedy reduces redness, itching, and swelling associated with eczema, allowing for a more comfortable and manageable condition. Additionally, lemon balm's antioxidant properties help to neutralize free radicals that can exacerbate eczema symptoms, promoting a healthy and balanced skin environment.

This natural decoction provides relief from the discomfort of eczema, making it an effective and gentle treatment option.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis decoctions that help with eczema.

• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with eczema.
• Luteolin: A flavonoid that exhibits anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators that contribute to eczema symptoms.
• Nepetalactone: A sesquiterpene lactone that has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing the risk of infection and promoting wound healing in eczema-prone skin.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make decoctions for eczema.

• Leaves: They contain compounds like rosmarinic acid, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe eczema symptoms.
• Flowers: Melissa officinalis flowers have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in reducing redness and itching associated with eczema.
• Buds: The buds of Melissa officinalis contain a high concentration of essential oils, which can be used to create decoctions that help calm and heal eczema-affected skin.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for eczema.

1. Harvest fresh melissa leaves in early summer or late spring when they are in their peak potency.
2. Rinse the harvested leaves with filtered water to remove dirt and debris thoroughly.
3. Combine 1 tablespoon of the melissa leaves with 1 cup of boiling water in a heat-resistant cup.
4. Allow the melissa leaves to steep in the boiling water for 5-10 minutes to release the active compounds.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the solid plant material completely.

What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for eczema?

The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with eczema is a blend of calendula, chamomile, and aloe vera.

Calendula has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and calm irritated skin, while chamomile's antiseptic qualities reduce redness and promote healing. Aloe vera's moisturizing properties hydrate and soften the skin, reducing itching and discomfort. This trio also has antimicrobial properties that help prevent infection.

When consumed as a decoction, this blend can also help from the inside out, promoting overall skin health and reducing eczema symptoms.

What ailments similar to eczema are treated with herbal decoctions?

Ailments similar to eczema/decoctions.html">eczema/decoctions.html">eczema that are treated with herbal decoctions are psoriasis, dermatitis, and acne.

Decoctions made from herbs like aloe vera, chamomile, calendula, and turmeric have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help soothe and calm irritated skin.

These herbs can be used to reduce redness, itching, and swelling associated with these conditions, promoting healthy skin and reducing the risk of infection.