Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is an autoimmune disorder and presents as severely inflamed and itchy skin. The skin may appear scaly or patchy due to scratching. The skin problems can be either localized or widespread over the body. Eczema symptoms wax and wane over time and emotional factors can aggravate the condition, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS).
No cure for eczema current exists. While physicians often recommend pharmaceutical management such as topical emollients or steroid-based creams, alternative practitioners employ natural approaches, particularly dietary modifications, such as the use of supplements like fatty acids, vitamins and probiotics.
Essential Fatty Acids
Certain fatty acids found in nature may have anti-inflammatory properties beneficial for an inflammatory condition like eczema. Some scientific research studies have suggested that essential fatty acid levels are abnormally low in the bloodstream of people with eczema, according to the Bastyr Center for Natural Health.
Omega-6 fatty acids usually promote inflammation in the body, but a specific form called gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) actually helps fight inflammation, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. GLAs are found in certain plant oils, including evening primrose oil, borage oil and black current oil. Natural food stores sell these oils in capsule form or as part of special skin creams.
The scientific community remains skeptical about to whether GLAs can effectively alleviate symptoms associated with eczema. The highest quality research studies have suggested no significant effect of GLA intake on symptoms, while other smaller studies have observed good effects, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Vitamins
Natural treatment for eczema commonly includes vitamin therapy. Vitamin C is one vitamin of interest, as it can act as an antihistamine. One research study found it to relieve eczema symptoms in children, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Vitamin E may also prove useful. In one controlled trial of 96 patients, those given 400 IU of Vitamin E were significantly more likely to report relief of eczema symptoms than those given a placebo, according to the Bastyr Center for Natural Health.
Probiotics
Probiotics are microorganisms such as bifidobacteria and lactobacillus, many of which live naturally in the digestive system. They contribute to good digestive health and may also boost the immune system in children. Research studies suggest that these supplements may help control infant allergies and eczema when taken by pregnant women and newborn babies, according to Dr. Athos Bousvaros in the February 2007 edition of Pediatric Views. Patients can take them in pill form or supplemented food products like yogurt.
Other Approaches
Other natural approaches include avoidance of food-based and environmental allergens that may be triggering the eczema, fish oil supplements that provide anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids and intake of flavenoids, nutrients commonly found in fruits and berries, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
References
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases: Atopic Dermatitis
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Omega-6 Fatty Acids
- Bastyr Center for Natural Health: Vitamin E Effective Treatment for Eczema
- "Pediatric Views" newsletter; Understanding Pros and Cons of Probiotics; Dr. Athos Bousvaros; February 2007
