Eczema is a common skin condition which can be triggered during the winter months. It causes sore, red, cracked and itchy skin and can affect any part of the body. The main treatments for eczema are emollients and topical corticosteroids. But researchers have also suggested natural remedies, like turmeric, can help lessen the skin condition’s symptoms.
“Turmeric is an herbal Ayurvedic remedy that has been proven to lessen eczema symptoms,” says Holland and Barrett.
“Several studies have shown a significant improvement in the severity of the effects of skin disease in people treated with turmeric.
“One 2015 study from Pakistan found that topical formulations containing turmeric eased itchiness, swelling and redness in eczema patients.
“Turmeric can be taken in powder, capsule or tablet forms and even in tea, and of course you can use turmeric as a delicious spice for your food.
“Daily disease of 3 to 4g have been used in eczema research studies, with positive results.”
Coconut oil is alternative natural remedy found to help soothe an eczema rash.
Coconut oil has rocketed in popularity over the last few years and has become known for its natural antibacterial and anti fungal properties.
It’s also been found to be a great moisturiser, penetrating the body better than other oils.
The high street health store says: “Thanks to today’s social media, there aren’t many people out there who haven’t heard of this wonder oil.
“Known for its multi-faceted health uses, this oil’s great at sinking itself into the skin and replenishing moisture.
“It’s available to buy pretty much everywhere, with raw or pure versions providing the best relief.”
Honey has also been known to hold antibacterial and moisturising properties.
As well as these treatments, the NHS says there are things you can do yourself to help ease symptoms and prevent further problems.
One of the main ones is to try to reduce the damage from scratching.
It explains: “Eczema is often itchy, and it can be very tempting to scratch the affected areas of skin.
“But scratching usually damages the skin, which can itself cause more eczema to occur.
“The skin eventually thickens into leathery areas as a result of chronic scratching.
“Deep scratching also causes bleeding and increases the risk of your ski becoming infected or scarred.
“Try to reduce scratching whenever possible. You could try gently rubbing your skin with your fingers instead.”