By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Eczema
Herbal tinctures for eczema are concentrated liquid extracts made from plant-based herbs, used to alleviate symptoms of eczema such as itching, redness, and inflammation.
These tinctures help by reducing inflammation, soothing the skin, and promoting healing. For example, oat and chamomile tinctures have anti-inflammatory properties that calm irritated skin, while calendula tincture promotes wound healing and reduces scarring.
By using herbal tinctures for eczema, individuals can experience relief from itching and discomfort, allowing them to live a more comfortable and confident life free from the constant need to scratch and apply topical creams.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for eczema, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Aloe vera
- 2. Calendula officinalis
- 3. Matricaria chamomilla
- 4. Urtica dioica
- 5. Symphytum officinale
- 6. Taraxacum officinale
- 7. Hypericum perforatum
- 8. Tilia cordata
- 9. Cinchona officinalis
- 10. Melissa officinalis
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for eczema?
- What ailments similar to eczema are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Aloe vera
Aloe tinctures helps with eczema because of its potent anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The aloe vera plant contains over 200 active compounds that work together to calm irritated skin, reduce redness, and alleviate itching. When applied topically as a tincture, these compounds are quickly absorbed into the skin, providing rapid relief from eczema symptoms.
The tincture's gentle yet effective formula helps to restore the skin's natural barrier function, promoting healthy, balanced skin and reducing the frequency and severity of eczema flares.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera tinctures that help with eczema.
- Aloin: A anthraquinone glycoside that has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, helping to reduce redness and itching associated with eczema.
- Aloe-emodin: A phenolic compound that possesses potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help combat bacterial infections that exacerbate eczema symptoms.
- Acemannan: A polysaccharide that promotes wound healing and tissue repair, reducing inflammation and promoting the regeneration of skin cells to alleviate eczema symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make tinctures for eczema.
- Leaves: The leaves are used for their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help calm and reduce eczema symptoms.
- Stems: The stems, or more specifically the gel inside the leaves, are used for their high content of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that aid in skin healing and protection.
- Flowers: The flowers are used for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help reduce redness and prevent infections associated with eczema.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for eczema.
- Harvest aloe vera leaves from mature plants to ensure potency and effectiveness of the tincture.
- Clean the harvested aloe vera leaves thoroughly under cold running water to remove dirt and debris.
- Chop the cleaned aloe vera leaves into small pieces to increase the surface area for extraction.
- Mix the chopped aloe vera with 80 proof vodka at a ratio of 1 part aloe vera to 2 parts vodka.
- Steep the mixture for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place to allow for optimal extraction.
2. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold tinctures helps with eczema because it possesses anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that soothe and calm irritated skin.
The tannins present in the herb help to reduce inflammation, while its antioxidant content protects the skin from damage caused by free radicals. Additionally, pot marigold's antimicrobial properties combat bacterial and fungal infections that can exacerbate eczema symptoms.
By reducing redness, itching, and swelling, pot marigold tinctures provide relief for individuals suffering from eczema-prone skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis tinctures that help with eczema.
- Triterpenoid saponins: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and swelling associated with eczema.
- Carotenoids: These pigments have antioxidant properties, which can help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, a common factor in eczema.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can help soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing symptoms of eczema.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make tinctures for eczema.
- Flowers: The flowers are commonly used due to their high content of triterpenoid saponins, which have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties beneficial for treating eczema.
- Leaves: The leaves are often used because they contain flavonoids and terpenoids that contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, helping to soothe eczema symptoms.
- Stems: The stems are sometimes used due to their high concentration of phenolic compounds, which possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can aid in eczema treatment.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for eczema.
- Harvest fresh or dried flowers of calendula officinalis on a sunny day after the dew has evaporated.
- Chop 1 part of fresh flowers or 1 ounce of dried flowers in a clean glass container.
- Combine chopped flowers with 2-3 parts of 80-proof vodka in the glass container.
- Steep the mixture for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another glass container.
3. Matricaria chamomilla
Chamomile tinctures helps with eczema because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The herbal extract reduces redness, itching, and swelling associated with eczema, providing relief to affected skin. Its antimicrobial compounds also prevent infections that can exacerbate the condition. Additionally, chamomile's ability to calm the skin's natural barrier function helps restore the skin's moisture balance, reducing dryness and irritation.
As a result, chamomile tinctures offer a natural and effective way to manage eczema symptoms, promoting healthy and comfortable skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla tinctures that help with eczema.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid helps with eczema by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can soothe and calm irritated skin.
- Alpha-bisabolol: This terpene has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, reducing redness, itching, and swelling associated with eczema.
- Luteolin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce the severity of eczema symptoms and promote skin healing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make tinctures for eczema.
- Flowers: The flowers of Matricaria chamomilla are the most commonly used part for making tinctures for eczema, due to their high concentration of anti-inflammatory compounds like apigenin and luteolin.
- Leaves: The leaves are also used, as they contain flavonoids and terpenoids that help to soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing eczema symptoms.
- Seeds: The seeds are sometimes used, as they contain essential oils that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can aid in the treatment and management of eczema.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for eczema.
- Harvest 1 part of fresh matricaria chamomilla flowers at dawn when the dew is still present.
- Dry the harvested flowers in a warm dark place for at least 7 days.
- Combine 1 part of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks, shaking daily.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth into another clean glass bottle, discarding the solids.
4. Urtica dioica
Stinging nettle tinctures helps with eczema because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The tincture's active compounds, such as polysaccharides and flavonoids, soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness and swelling associated with eczema. Additionally, the antihistamine properties in stinging nettle help to alleviate itching and scratching, which can further exacerbate the condition.
By taking an herbal stinging nettle tincture regularly, individuals with eczema may experience relief from symptoms and improved overall skin health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica tinctures that help with eczema.
- Alkaloids: These alkaloids have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce redness and itching associated with eczema.
- Furanocoumarins: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which help to soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing symptoms of eczema.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to reduce inflammation and itching in eczema-prone skin, while also promoting skin regeneration.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make tinctures for eczema.
- Leaves: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of anti-inflammatory compounds and allergen-reducing properties.
- Roots: The roots of Urtica dioica contain a higher concentration of antioxidants and are often used to create a more potent tincture for eczema treatment.
- Stems: The stems of the plant are sometimes used as a secondary source of the herb's active compounds, especially when leaves are in short supply.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for eczema.
- Gather 250g of fresh urtica dioica leaves and stems and clean them thoroughly with cold water.
- Combine the cleaned urtica dioica in a clean glass jar with 500ml of 45% industrial ethanol.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-4 weeks with occasional shaking.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container.
- Store the urtica dioica tincture in a cool dark place for at least 2 weeks before use.
5. Symphytum officinale
Comfrey tinctures helps with eczema because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The herb's allantoin content reduces redness, swelling, and itching associated with eczema, providing relief from discomfort. Additionally, comfrey's mucilages and antioxidants help to calm and protect the skin, promoting a healthy barrier function.
As a natural demulcent, comfrey tinctures can be applied topically to ease dryness, irritation, and inflammation, making it an effective natural remedy for managing eczema symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Symphytum officinale tinctures that help with eczema.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help reduce inflammation and promote wound healing, which can alleviate symptoms associated with eczema, such as skin irritation and lesions.
- Sesquiterpenes: These terpenes exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and calm irritated skin, reduce redness, and promote skin regeneration in eczema sufferers.
- Saponins: These compounds possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help regulate the immune response and reduce inflammation in the skin, providing relief from eczema symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of comfrey used to make tinctures for eczema.
- Leaves: The leaves of Symphytum officinale are commonly used to make tinctures for eczema due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
- Roots: The roots of Symphytum officinale are used to make tinctures for eczema because they contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties.
- Buds: The buds of Symphytum officinale are used to make tinctures for eczema due to their potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic comfrey for eczema.
- Harvest approximately 30% of the plant's leaves and flowers at the peak of its flowering stage.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Combine 1 part of the dried plant material with 2 parts of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the tincture.
6. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion tinctures helps with eczema because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The plant's active compounds, such as taraxasterol and taraxanthin, work together to soothe irritated skin and reduce inflammation, thus alleviating symptoms like itching, redness, and dryness. Additionally, dandelion's ability to promote healthy digestion and eliminate toxins from the body can also help alleviate eczema triggers and promote overall skin health.
By reducing oxidative stress and modulating the immune response, dandelion tinctures can provide relief for eczema sufferers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with eczema.
- Taraxasterol: This triterpene has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and swelling associated with eczema.
- Taraxeryl acetate: This sesquiterpene has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help soothe and calm irritated skin and reduce eczema symptoms.
- Inulin: This polysaccharide has anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties, which can help reduce itching and dryness associated with eczema, promoting healthy skin hydration.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for eczema.
- Leaves: Used due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help soothe and calm eczema symptoms.
- Roots: Employed for their bitter compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help reduce eczema inflammation.
- Seeds: Utilized for their essential fatty acids and other compounds that can help moisturize and soothe dry, itchy eczema skin.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for eczema.
- Harvest 10-20 cups of fresh taraxacum officinale leaves and roots in the early morning.
- Chop the harvested taraxacum officinale plant material into small pieces using a sharp knife.
- Combine 3 cups of chopped taraxacum officinale plant material with 2 cups of 80 proof vodka in a glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks with occasional shaking.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a glass bottle discarding solids.
7. Hypericum perforatum
St John's wort tinctures helps with eczema because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The herb's active compounds, such as hyperforin and hypericin, have been shown to reduce inflammation and alleviate itching and redness associated with eczema. Additionally, St John's wort has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help combat infections that often exacerbate eczema symptoms.
By using a tincture, the active compounds of St John's wort can be easily absorbed into the body, providing rapid relief from eczema symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum tinctures that help with eczema.
- Hyperforin: A phenolic compound that helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in skin, which are common symptoms of eczema.
- Naphthodianthrones: A type of phenolic compound that has potent anti-inflammatory and antipuritic (anti-itching) effects, which can help alleviate eczema symptoms.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid with strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce redness, swelling, and itchiness associated with eczema.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make tinctures for eczema.
- Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help soothe and calm eczema symptoms.
- Flowers: The flowers are high in hyperforin and hypericin, which have potent anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help reduce redness and itching associated with eczema.
- Buds: The buds contain a high concentration of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, which help to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing in eczema sufferers.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for eczema.
- Harvest 250 grams of fresh hypericum perforatum flowers in the early morning when they are at their highest potency.
- Dry the flowers in a warm and well-ventilated area for 2-3 weeks to reduce moisture content.
- Combine the dried flowers with 750 milliliters of vodka in a clean glass jar at a ratio of 1:3.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle, discard the solids and store in a cool dark place.
8. Tilia cordata
Littleleaf linden tinctures helps with eczema because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm irritated skin.
The tannins present in the herb have a gentle astringent effect, reducing redness and swelling associated with eczema flare-ups. Additionally, linden's antihistamine properties help to reduce itching and scratching, allowing the skin to heal and recover more effectively.
By incorporating herbal littleleaf linden tinctures into your skincare routine, you can experience significant relief from eczema symptoms and enjoy smoother, healthier-looking skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Tilia cordata tinctures that help with eczema.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing eczema symptoms.
- Triterpenoids: This terpenoid has potent anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help reduce inflammation and modulate the immune response in eczema-prone skin.
- Quercetin: As a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory flavonoid, quercetin can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the skin, thereby alleviating eczema symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of littleleaf linden used to make tinctures for eczema.
- Leaves: Used to make tinctures for eczema due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
- Buds: Used to make tinctures for eczema due to their ability to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing.
- Barks: Used to make tinctures for eczema due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and calm the skin.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic littleleaf linden for eczema.
- Harvest 1:2 tilia cordata flowers in the morning after the dew has evaporated to prevent moisture.
- Dry the tilia cordata flowers in a single layer for 7-10 days to minimize moisture.
- Combine 250 grams of dried tilia cordata flowers with 750 milliliters of 95% ethanol in a clean glass container.
- Steep the mixture for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the mixture through a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and store in a cool dark place.
9. Cinchona officinalis
Jesuit's bark tinctures helps with eczema because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
The tannins present in the plant help to reduce swelling and redness associated with eczema, while also soothing and calming the skin. Additionally, Jesuit's bark has been traditionally used to treat itching and irritation, providing relief from the constant discomfort that can come with eczema.
By reducing inflammation and alleviating symptoms, Jesuit's bark tinctures offer a natural and effective approach to managing eczema and promoting healthy, clear skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinchona officinalis tinctures that help with eczema.
- Quinine: Quinine, an alkaloid found in Cinchona officinalis, has anti-inflammatory and antipruritic properties, which can help reduce itching and inflammation associated with eczema.
- Quinovic acid glycosides: Quinovic acid glycosides, a type of phenolic compound present in Cinchona officinalis, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which can help soothe and calm the skin, reducing eczema symptoms.
- Rubescens: Rubescens, a xanthone compound found in Cinchona officinalis, has been reported to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help regulate the immune response and reduce inflammation in eczema.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of jesuit's bark used to make tinctures for eczema.
- Leaves: Known for their high content of quinine and other alkaloids, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties to help soothe and calm eczema.
- Barks: Contain cinchonine and other alkaloids that may help reduce inflammation, itching, and irritation associated with eczema.
- Rhyzomes: May contribute to the tincture's antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate eczema symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic jesuit's bark for eczema.
- Harvest cinchona officinalis leaves and stems when the plant is in full bloom for optimal quality.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a warm well-ventilated area for 1 to 2 weeks.
- Combine 250 grams of dried cinchona officinalis plant material with 750 milliliters of 80 proof ethanol in a glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar occasionally.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a fine mesh filter into a clean glass bottle.
10. Melissa officinalis
Lemon balm tinctures helps with eczema because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The herb calms irritated skin, reduces redness and itching, and promotes relaxation, which can help alleviate the discomfort associated with eczema. Additionally, lemon balm's natural antimicrobial properties help to prevent infections that can exacerbate eczema symptoms.
By reducing inflammation and promoting healing, herbal lemon balm tinctures provide a natural and effective way to manage eczema symptoms and promote overall skin health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis tinctures that help with eczema.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce redness and itching associated with eczema.
- Limonene: This monoterpene has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healing of skin lesions.
- Volatile oils: These sesquiterpenes have anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and soothing effects, which can help calm and protect the skin, reducing eczema symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make tinctures for eczema.
- Leaves: The leaves of Melissa officinalis contain essential oils and flavonoids, which are known for their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, making them effective in reducing eczema symptoms.
- Flowers: Melissa officinalis flowers have been traditionally used to calm and soothe skin irritations, such as eczema, due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: Additionally, the leaves of Melissa officinalis contain rosmarinic acid, which has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to reduce inflammation and promote healing in eczema-prone skin.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for eczema.
- Harvest melissa officinalis leaves and flowers at peak potency for maximum tincture quality.
- Dry the plant material in a dark place with good airflow for 1 to 2 weeks.
- Chop the dried plant material into small pieces to increase surface area for extraction.
- Steep 1 part of the chopped plant material in 2 parts of high-proof ethanol 80% for 2 to 6 weeks.
- Strain the tincture through a coffee filter and transfer it to a dark glass bottle for storage.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for eczema?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with eczema is Calendula, Aloe Vera, and Tea Tree.
Calendula tincture promotes skin healing and reduces inflammation, while Aloe Vera soothes and calms irritated skin. Tea Tree tincture, rich in antifungal properties, helps combat infections and reduces inflammation. When combined, these tinctures work synergistically to alleviate eczema symptoms, reduce redness, and promote skin health.
This combination can be taken orally or applied topically to the affected areas, providing a natural and effective approach to healing eczema.
What ailments similar to eczema are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to eczema/tinctures.html">eczema/tinctures.html">eczema that are treated with herbal tinctures are atopic dermatitis, acne, psoriasis, and rosacea.
These conditions share common symptoms such as inflammation, redness, itching, and dry skin. Herbal tinctures like chamomile, calendula, and plantain help soothe and calm the skin, reducing irritation and promoting healing.
Tinctures made from herbs like neem and turmeric have anti-inflammatory properties that can also alleviate symptoms of these conditions.