Last updated: Jul 07, 2024
10 best herbal essential oils for eczema
Herbal essential oils for eczema are natural extracts derived from plants, herbs, and flowers that offer a safe and effective solution to soothe and calm irritated skin.
These oils help reduce inflammation, relieve itching, and moisturize the skin, providing significant relief from eczema symptoms. Examples of herbal essential oils that benefit eczema include lavender oil, chamomile oil, and calendula oil, which can be used in aromatherapy, massage, or added to bath water.
By using these oils, individuals with eczema can experience improved sleep quality, reduced stress, and enhanced overall well-being.
The following article describes in detail the most important essential oils for eczema, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
1. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold essential oils helps with eczema because of its remarkable anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The oil contains calendic acid, a potent compound that soothes itchy skin, reduces redness, and calms irritated areas. It also possesses antimicrobial properties, which help prevent bacterial infections that can exacerbate eczema.
Furthermore, the oil's emollient and moisturizing effects leave the skin feeling soft, supple, and protected, providing long-lasting relief from the symptoms of eczema.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in pot marigold essential oils that aid with eczema.
- Antibacterial: Calendula oil has antibacterial properties that help to reduce the growth of bacteria on the skin, which can contribute to eczema flare-ups and infections.
- Anti-inflammatory: The anti-inflammatory compounds in Calendula oil help to reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with eczema, promoting a calm and soothing environment for the skin.
- Wound-healing: Calendula oil has been shown to accelerate wound healing by stimulating collagen synthesis, improving tissue elasticity, and enhancing the production of new tissue, making it an effective treatment for eczema lesions.
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make essential oils for eczema.
- Roots: The roots of the pot marigold plant contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds, making them effective in soothing and calming irritated skin.
- Seeds: Pot marigold seeds are rich in fatty acids and flavonoids, which help to reduce inflammation and promote healing in eczema-prone skin.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for eczema.
- Harvest fresh calendula flowers and dry them using shade drying or air circulation for two weeks.
- Mix one part dried calendula flowers with two parts carrier oil such as sweet almond oil in a clean glass jar.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for four to six weeks to allow for gentle extraction of calendula's active compounds.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another container discarding the solids and reserve the liquid.
- Transfer the resulting infused oil to small glass bottles and store them in the refrigerator for up to six months using a dark glass bottle with tight lid.
2. Lavandula angustifolia
English lavender essential oils helps with eczema because of its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and soothing properties.
The oil's calming scent can reduce stress and anxiety, common triggers of eczema flares. Additionally, lavender's moisturizing effects help to hydrate dry, itchy skin, reducing redness and discomfort.
By applying lavender essential oils topically or inhaling its aroma through steam inhalation, individuals with eczema can experience relief from symptoms such as itching, scratching, and skin irritation.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in english lavender essential oils that aid with eczema.
- Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties: Lavender essential oil's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce redness, swelling, and inflammation associated with eczema, promoting healthy skin.
- Soothing and calming properties: The calming effects of lavender essential oil can help alleviate itching and discomfort caused by eczema, promoting relaxation and reducing stress-induced flare-ups.
- Antimicrobial and antifungal properties: Lavender essential oil's antimicrobial and antifungal properties can help combat skin infections and reduce the risk of secondary bacterial infections that can exacerbate eczema symptoms.
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make essential oils for eczema.
- Roots: The roots contain a high concentration of sesquiterpenes, which have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, making them effective in soothing and calming eczema symptoms.
- Seeds: Lavender seeds contain a high amount of linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid that helps to moisturize and hydrate the skin, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with eczema.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for eczema.
- Harvest fresh lavender flowers at dawn when their oil content is highest using scissors and collecting in a clean cloth bag.
- Dry the harvested lavender flowers for 7-10 days in a warm dark place away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
- Steam distill the dried lavender flowers using a high-quality steam distillation apparatus with distilled water at 100°c for 90 minutes.
- Filter the resulting essential oil from the distillate through a coffee filter paper into a clean glass bottle and store in a cool dark place.
- Use the pure lavandula angustifolia essential oil immediately or dilute with carrier oils such as coconut or jojoba at a 2% concentration for topical application.
3. Matricaria chamomilla
Chamomile essential oils helps with eczema because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
It calms irritated skin, reducing redness and itching, which are common symptoms of eczema. The oil's gentle, non-irritating nature makes it an effective treatment for sensitive skin, allowing it to penetrate deep into the pores to alleviate discomfort and promote healing.
Additionally, chamomile's antioxidant properties help to neutralize free radicals that can exacerbate eczema, providing a calming and restorative effect on the skin.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in chamomile essential oils that aid with eczema.
- Anti-inflammatory: Chamomile essential oil's anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with eczema, providing relief from discomfort.
- Antioxidant: Chamomile's antioxidant properties can help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, which can exacerbate eczema symptoms such as dryness and irritation.
- Soothing and calming: Chamomile essential oil's calming effects can help reduce stress and anxiety, which are common triggers for eczema flare-ups, allowing the skin to heal more effectively.
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make essential oils for eczema.
- Roots: Rich in sesquiterpenes, which have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help soothe and calm irritated skin.
- Flowers: Contains apigenin, an flavonoid that has been shown to reduce inflammation and improve skin health.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for eczema.
- Harvest high-quality matricaria chamomilla flowers in the early morning after dew has dried.
- Dry the fresh flowers using a food dehydrator on low heat for 24 hours.
- Blend one part of dried chamomile flowers with two parts of carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for six to eight weeks, shaking daily.
- Strain and filter the resulting liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter before bottling.
4. Melissa officinalis
Lemon balm essential oils helps with eczema because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The oil's active compounds, such as citral and geraniol, soothe itchy skin, reduce redness and swelling, and combat bacterial infections that can exacerbate eczema. Additionally, lemon balm essential oil has a calming effect on the skin, reducing stress and promoting relaxation, which are key factors in managing eczema symptoms.
Its topical application can bring much-needed relief to individuals suffering from this chronic condition.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in lemon balm essential oils that aid with eczema.
- Anti-inflammatory: Lemon balm essential oil has anti-inflammatory properties, which helps to reduce redness and swelling associated with eczema.
- Antioxidant: The antioxidant properties of lemon balm essential oil help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, which can exacerbate eczema symptoms.
- Calming and soothing: Lemon balm essential oil has a calming and soothing effect on the skin, which helps to reduce itching, irritation, and discomfort associated with eczema.
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make essential oils for eczema.
- Roots: Lemon balm roots are used to create essential oil that soothes skin irritations and reduces inflammation, making it effective in alleviating eczema symptoms.
- Flowers: The flowers of the lemon balm plant contain flavonoids and terpenes that help calm skin itching and reduce redness associated with eczema.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for eczema.
- Harvest high-quality fresh melissa officinalis leaves from organic farms at dawn on warm sunny days.
- Wash the harvested leaves with distilled water and gentle soap in cold running water for five minutes.
- Steam distill the washed leaves using a steam distillation apparatus with a 10:1 ratio of leaves to water for six hours.
- Collect and filter the resulting essential oil using activated charcoal and diatomaceous earth within three days of distillation.
- Store the filtered melissa officinalis essential oil in dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids at room temperature away from direct sunlight.
5. Helichrysum italicum
Curry plant essential oils helps with eczema because it possesses anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which soothe and calm irritated skin.
The oil's sesquiterpenes also help to reduce redness and swelling, while its antifungal compounds prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi that can exacerbate eczema symptoms. Additionally, curry plant essential oils' moisturizing effects help to lock in moisture and reduce dryness, a common trigger for eczema flare-ups.
Overall, using curry plant essential oils topically can provide relief from itching, inflammation, and discomfort associated with eczema.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in curry plant essential oils that aid with eczema.
- Anti-inflammatory: Turmeric essential oil contains curcuminoids, which have potent anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce swelling and itching associated with eczema.
- Antioxidant: The antioxidants in Turmeric essential oil neutralize free radicals, protecting the skin from oxidative stress and damage caused by environmental factors that can exacerbate eczema.
- Immune-modulating: The essential oil's immunomodulatory properties help regulate the body's response to allergens and irritants, reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy skin barrier function.
The list below shows the primary parts of curry plant used to make essential oils for eczema.
- Roots: The roots of the curry plant contain a high concentration of bioactive compounds that are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making them effective in soothing skin irritations associated with eczema.
- Buds: Curry plant buds are rich in flavonoids, which have been shown to possess antiallergic and anti-inflammatory activities, helping to alleviate symptoms of eczema such as redness, itching, and swelling.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic curry plant for eczema.
- Harvest helichrysum italicum leaves in abundance and dry them properly using air circulation or desiccant within 2 days.
- Combine 100 grams of dried helichrysum italicum leaves with 500 milliliters of high-proof solvent like hexane or petroleum ether.
- Steam distill the mixture for 4 hours at a temperature range of 60 to 80 degrees celsius and collect essential oil fraction.
- Filter the collected essential oil through a layer of activated charcoal or cotton wool to remove impurities and sediment.
- Store the resulting helichrysum italicum essential oil in a dark glass bottle with tight lid at room temperature for up to 1 year.
6. Aloe vera
Aloe essential oils helps with eczema because of its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and moisturizing properties.
The gel inside the aloe leaf contains powerful compounds that soothe itchy skin, reduce redness, and calm inflammation. When applied topically, aloe oil creates a protective barrier on the skin's surface, locking in moisture and preventing dryness and irritation.
Additionally, its natural antibacterial and antifungal properties help to combat infections that can exacerbate eczema symptoms, promoting healthy skin and reducing the risk of further flare-ups.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in aloe essential oils that aid with eczema.
- Anti-inflammatory: Herbal aloe essential oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with eczema, allowing for faster healing and relief.
- Antimicrobial: The antimicrobial properties of herbal aloe essential oil can help combat bacterial and fungal infections that often exacerbate eczema, preventing further irritation and infection.
- Wound-healing: Herbal aloe essential oil has been shown to promote wound healing by stimulating collagen synthesis, improving tissue elasticity, and enhancing the growth of new skin cells, helping to restore healthy skin function.
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make essential oils for eczema.
- Leaves: Known for their soothing and calming properties, aloe leaves help reduce inflammation and irritation associated with eczema.
- Roots: Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, aloe roots promote skin health and may help alleviate symptoms of eczema.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for eczema.
- Harvest fresh aloe vera leaves measuring 10-12 inches in length from mature plants.
- Cut the aloe vera leaves into small pieces and blend them with 2 cups of distilled water for 30 minutes.
- Steep the mixture for 24 hours at room temperature to allow for optimal extraction.
- Strain the liquid using cheesecloth or a coffee filter discarding the solids and retaining the herbal extract.
- Transfer the herbal extract to a glass bottle and add 10% jojoba oil as a carrier oil.
7. Teucrium chamaedrys
Germander essential oils helps with eczema because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm itchy, irritated skin.
It also possesses natural antiseptic and antibacterial properties that help to reduce infection and prevent further inflammation, allowing the skin to heal naturally. Additionally, germander oil has been shown to enhance skin elasticity and hydration, reducing dryness and flakiness associated with eczema.
As a result, it provides fast and effective relief from the discomfort and distress of eczema.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in germander essential oils that aid with eczema.
- Antioxidant properties: Germander essential oil's antioxidant properties help reduce oxidative stress, which can exacerbate inflammation and itching associated with eczema.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Germander essential oil's anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe and calm redness, swelling, and itching caused by eczema.
- Antimicrobial properties: Germander essential oil's antimicrobial properties can help combat bacterial and fungal infections that can contribute to the development of eczema and reduce the risk of secondary infections.
The list below shows the primary parts of germander used to make essential oils for eczema.
- Roots: The roots of the germander plant contain compounds with anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, making them effective in soothing itchy and inflamed skin.
- Barks: The bark of the germander plant is rich in flavonoids and terpenes, which help to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing in eczema-prone skin.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic germander for eczema.
- Harvest fresh teucrium chamaedrys leaves in the morning after dew has evaporated and before peak sun intensity.
- Dry the harvested leaves using a food dehydrator at 60°c for 24 hours to preserve their bioactive compounds.
- Combine 200g of dried teucrium chamaedrys leaves with 1l of carrier oil such as sweet almond or grapeseed in a clean glass jar.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks allowing the herbal material to infuse into the carrier oil.
- Strain the mixture through a coffee filter or cheesecloth and discard the solids then store the essential oil in amber glass bottles.
8. Santalum album
Sandalwood essential oils helps with eczema because of its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and soothing properties.
It has been traditionally used to calm irritated skin and reduce redness, making it an excellent natural remedy for eczema sufferers. The oil's sesquiterpenes also help to promote collagen production, improving skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Additionally, sandalwood essential oils can help to balance the skin's natural pH, creating a barrier against allergens and irritants that can exacerbate eczema symptoms.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in sandalwood essential oils that aid with eczema.
- Antioxidant properties: Sandalwood essential oil has antioxidant properties that help to reduce inflammation and protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, which can exacerbate eczema symptoms.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: The anti-inflammatory compounds in Sandalwood essential oil, such as alpha-santalol, can help to reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with eczema, promoting a faster healing process.
- Soothing and moisturizing properties: Sandalwood essential oil has a calming and nourishing effect on the skin, helping to soothe irritated skin, lock in moisture, and reduce dryness and itchiness characteristic of eczema.
The list below shows the primary parts of sandalwood used to make essential oils for eczema.
- Roots: The roots of the sandalwood plant are rich in sesquiterpenes, which have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help soothe and calm irritated skin.
- Barks: The barks of the sandalwood tree contain a high concentration of alpha-santalol, a compound with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that can help reduce redness and itching associated with eczema.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sandalwood for eczema.
- Harvest fresh leaves of santalum album at dawn when they are most potent for maximum therapeutic benefits.
- Dry the harvested leaves in a warm, dark place for 7-10 days to reduce moisture content and preserve oil.
- Combine 20g of dried santalum album leaves with 200ml of carrier oil such as sweet almond or coconut oil in a clean glass jar.
- Store the mixture in a cool, dark place for 2 weeks, shaking daily, allowing the plant's natural oils to infuse into the carrier oil.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth and discard solids after 14 days, retaining the infused oil for use as an effective eczema remedy.
9. Citrus x aurantium
Bitter orange essential oils helps with eczema because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which soothe and calm irritated skin.
The oil's beta-pinene content reduces redness and swelling, while its limonene component fights off bacterial infections that can exacerbate the condition.
Additionally, bitter orange essential oil's ability to regulate the skin's natural pH balance helps restore the protective barrier function of the skin, alleviating itching and discomfort associated with eczema.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in bitter orange essential oils that aid with eczema.
- Antioxidant property: Bitter orange essential oil's antioxidant properties can help neutralize free radicals that contribute to inflammation and damage caused by eczema, reducing its symptoms.
- Anti-inflammatory property: The anti-inflammatory compounds present in bitter orange essential oil can reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with eczema by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals.
- Antimicrobial property: Bitter orange essential oil's antimicrobial properties can help combat infections that may exacerbate or cause eczema, promoting a healthy skin environment and reducing the risk of secondary infections.
The list below shows the primary parts of bitter orange used to make essential oils for eczema.
- Roots: The roots of the bitter orange plant are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which help soothe and calm irritated skin associated with eczema.
- Buds: The buds of the bitter orange plant contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in reducing redness and swelling associated with eczema.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic bitter orange for eczema.
- Harvest 20 fresh citrus x aurantium peels in the morning to ensure optimal oil content.
- Steam distill the peels for 30 minutes using a clevenger apparatus at atmospheric pressure.
- Monitor and collect the essential oil as it separates from the water phase after 15 minutes of distillation.
- Filter the collected oil through a coffee filter or paper towel within 24 hours to remove impurities.
- Store the final citrus x aurantium essential oil in a dark glass bottle with a tight lid at room temperature.
10. Foeniculum vulgare
Fennel essential oils helps with eczema because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
It soothes irritated skin, reducing redness and swelling associated with eczema flare-ups. The oil's antiseptic and antibacterial compounds also help to prevent infection and promote healing, further alleviating symptoms.
Additionally, fennel essential oil's ability to improve digestion can aid in reducing eczema triggers such as food sensitivities, making it a holistic approach to managing the condition.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in fennel essential oils that aid with eczema.
- Anti-inflammatory property: Fennel essential oil's anti-inflammatory property helps to reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with eczema.
- Antioxidant property: The antioxidant property of fennel essential oil helps to neutralize free radicals that can contribute to skin damage and exacerbate eczema symptoms.
- Antimicrobial property: Fennel essential oil's antimicrobial property helps to combat bacterial and fungal infections that can cause or worsen eczema, promoting a healthy and balanced skin microbiome.
The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make essential oils for eczema.
- Roots: Fennel roots are used to create an essential oil that helps soothe and calm itchy skin, reducing inflammation associated with eczema.
- Seeds: Fennel seeds contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce redness and swelling caused by eczema, making them a valuable ingredient in medicinal essential oils.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for eczema.
- Harvest foeniculum vulgare leaves and flowers in the early morning when dew is still present on the plants for optimal potency.
- Dry the harvested material using a food dehydrator at 60 degrees celsius for 24 hours or until crispy and brittle texture achieved.
- Steam distill the dried foeniculum vulgare material using a steam distillation apparatus with a yield of 10ml per hour and 1% essential oil content expected.
- Filter the distillate through a coffee filter paper to remove impurities and contaminants resulting in a clear yellowish liquid appearance.
- Store the final essential oil in dark glass bottles at room temperature away from direct sunlight for up to 6 months with no refrigeration required.
How to best treat eczema with herbal essential oils?
The best way to treat eczema with herbal essential oils is by blending Lavender oil, Calendula oil, and Chamomile oil in a carrier oil like Coconut or Olive oil.
Apply the blend topically on affected areas 2-3 times a day to soothe itching, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.
Additionally, Oatmeal oil and Burdock root oil can also be added to enhance the treatment's effectiveness.
What ailments similar to eczema are treated with herbal essential oils?
Ailments similar to eczema that are treated with herbal essential oils are psoriasis, rosacea, and dermatitis.
Lavender oil helps soothe irritated skin, reducing inflammation and promoting healing. Tea tree oil has antifungal and antibacterial properties, making it effective in treating acne/essential-oils.html">acne-like symptoms. Geranium oil regulates hormones, which can help alleviate symptoms of hormonal imbalance-related skin issues, such as acne and rosacea.
These essential oils can be used topically or blended with carrier oils for added benefits.