How helpful are Essential Oils for Eczema?

Eczema is one of the most common skin conditions, affecting close to 30 million Americans, according to the National Eczema Association (NEA). There are also several types of eczema: atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, nummular eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, and stasis dermatitis. Each type of eczema presents different symptoms, ranging from inflamed skin to unpleasant oozing scabs.rnUsually over-the-counter creams or lotions will keep symptoms under control, but in some cases, people with eczema cannot tolerate even basic formulas.

Alternative Natural Treatment

If your severe eczema isn’t responding to traditional treatments, you may be wondering what other options you have. In addition to the therapies your doctor prescribes, you may be looking to try alternative or complementary medicine.rnOne type of complementary therapy that you might be curious about is the use of essential oils. Essential oils are highly concentrated extracts distilled from various plants. They are used in aromatherapy or diluted with a carrier oil for topical use.

Benefits of using Essential Oils for Eczema

Using an all-natural approach to treating eczema and psoriasis can not only help soothe the skin, it can also help manage emotions that may trigger a flare-up.rnA lot of oils are known to be helpful due to their detoxifying effects, moisturizing ability, stress-relieving properties, and antibacterial properties. Research has shown that specific oils can significantly decrease the pain associated with these skin disorders.rnEssential oils that have sesquiterpene hydrocarbons and alcohols, especially alpha-bisobolol, are best for the treatment of eczema. When botanical extracts are also included, the therapeutic benefits and soothing qualities are enhanced.rnHere is the list of Top Essential Oils that work best to ease the symptoms of Eczema:

Lavender Essential Oil

It is no secret what lavender essential oil can do to the body and mind, which is why it is the go-to essential oil for eczema. With the acclaimed antiseptic and soothing properties, lavender oil addresses the eczema flare-ups from the inside out.rnIt doesn’t stop there, though. The complex mixture of phytochemicals present activates the ‘emotional brain’ to relieve stress and anxiety. Being an amazing sleep aid, the oil is great to use at nighttime when itch and pain make you an insomniac.

Tea Tree Oil

Topical tea tree oil may also be beneficial for people with eczema. A past study found that topical tea tree oil reduced allergic contact dermatitis, a type of eczema that results when the skin comes in contact with an allergen, by 40.5 percent. rnThanks to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, tea tree oil may also help prevent the growth of skin bacteria or fungi. This may be especially helpful for people with eczema and atopic dermatitis, as excessive scratching during flare-ups can cause the skin to break, making it more prone to damage.

Bergamot Oil

Bergamot has been used for centuries for a variety of uses. It comes from a delicate citrus plant that is difficult to grow because it requires a specific climate and soil to stay healthy. This oil has long been used by Italians to help reduce stress and soothe skin conditions.rnBergamot fruit can be eaten as a dessert or enjoyed with coffee because it has a sweet and enjoyable taste. This unique citrus oil can be uplifting and calming at the same time, which makes it great for reducing anxiety and depression.rnBergamot can also be used as a cleanser because it is purifying for the skin and can calm irritations. Bergamot can be diffused, used topically, or even added to your favorite beverage. Additionally, you can use it as a massage oil or add a drop or two to your skincare cleanser.

Chamomile Oil

There are a lot of benefits from chamomile essential oil. It can be diffused or applied directly to the skin to help calm the mind, improve digestion, reduce inflammation, and treat skin conditions.rnChamomile oil is an effective aid to help relieve anxiety and symptoms of depression. It can also help fight insomnia and allow users to get a good night's sleep. It can promote heart health and, most importantly, has cancer-fighting properties.

Sandalwood Oil

Sandalwood is used in many cultures for different things and has benefits ranging from being an antiseptic to helping increase memory. rnIn our modern Western world, it is used for several things. It is an anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, muscle relaxant, diuretic, disinfectant, and health tonic. It is also used as a sedative, for skincare, and to treat mild coughs. This is one of the most popular and versatile essential oils on the market.

Final Thoughts

The essential oils, when used properly, are effective remedies to soothe and heal eczema. But remember that some oils may not work for everyone due to different skin properties, inflammation levels, dilution ratio etc.