Because rashes have a number of causes ranging from minor allergens to serious conditions like lupus, you should always consult your doctor before treating a rash on your own. If the rash recurs, it may be a sign of a previously undiagnosed skin condition or your continued exposure to a harmful allergen. If your doctor decides your rash is simply a minor irritation, ask about treating it with all-natural herbal ointments.
Rash Causes
Rashes have a number of causes, ranging from contact with an irritant to chronic skin conditions to underlying medical disorders. The government's Medline Plus website notes that common skin irritants include soap, detergent, clothing dyes, elastic, latex and poison oak. Many skin conditions cause periodic rashes, including eczema, psoriasis, impetigo and shingles. Sometimes the cause is more serious, as with lupus or Kawasaki disease.
Herbal Ointments
If you think your rash is due to contact with a household irritant or allergen, try a chamomile ointment. According to Phyllis A. Balch in "Prescription for Herbal Healing," chamomile acts as an anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory that promotes tissue healing. If you can isolate poison ivy, oak or sumac as the cause of your rash, look for an ointment that contains grindelia, jewelweed, plantain, aloe or witch hazel, according to Linda B. White and Steven Foster, authors of "The Herbal Drugstore." For rashes associated with skin disorders such as eczema or impetigo, Jude C. William and Jude Todd, authors of "Jude's Herbal Home Remedies," recommend sheep sorrel leaves, heartsease, valerian, aloe vera, rosemary, thyme and mullein.
Diaper Rash
One of the most common rash types, children's diaper rash can be identified by red skin, raised bumps, or scaly skin in the diaper area. According to Anne McIntyre in "Herbal Treatment of Children: Western and Ayurvedic Perspectives," you can treat diaper rash with creams or ointments that contain chamomile, chickweed, comfrey and calendula. Of these, calendula and chamomile have antiseptic effects that can help keep the rash from becoming infected.
Herbs to Avoid
Sometimes herbs can cause rashes as well as relieve them. St. John's wort, for example, can cause rashes and/or sunburn after sun exposure. According to Joe and Teresa Graedon in "The People's Pharmacy Guide to Home and Herbal Remedies," St. John's wort is phototoxic, increasing the harmful effects of the sun. Similarly, according to Integrative Medicine Communications' "Quick Access Patient Information on Conditions, Herbs & Supplements," some people have developed skin rashes after taking kava, an herb recommended to help with anxiety and sleeplessness.
Rash Treatment Tips
The government's Medline Plus website notes that you should avoid scrubbing or rubbing a rash. When you wash the affected area, use lukewarm water instead of hot water. Use a gentle soap-free cleanser and pat the area dry. If you are wearing any new clothing or cosmetic products, remove them and discontinue use until your doctor identifies the cause of your rash.
References
- MedlinePlus: Rashes
- "Prescription for Herbal Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch; 2002
- "The Herbal Drugstore"; Linda B. White, M.D., Steven Foster and the Staff of Herbs for Health; 2000
- "Jude's Herbal Home Remedies"; Jude C. Todd; 2004
- "The People's Pharmacy"; Joe Graedon and Teresa Graedon; 1998
- "Herbal Treatment of Children: Western and Ayurvedic Perspectives"; Anne McIntyre; 2005
