Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is an allergic condition that causes skin inflammation as well as scaling, flaking, thickening, crusting and itchiness of the skin tissue. Conventional treatment includes antihistamines and corticosteroids. In addition to the standard therapy, a healthy diet and vitamin supplementation may help reduce symptoms of eczema. Vitamins do not replace conventional treatment, however. Consult a qualified practitioner about optimal dosage, possible drug interactions and side effects of vitamin supplementation for eczema.
B-Complex
All B-vitamins are necessary for healthy skin and circulation. B-vitamins work as a team; thus, they should be taken together in a B-complex formula. Dr. James Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," recommends for dermatitis a B-complex formula and additional supplementation with vitamins B3, B6 and B12. Vitamin B3, or niacin, supports the health of the skin and nerves; symptoms of vitamin B3 deficiency include dry, rough and thick skin. Vitamin B6 promotes the formation of red blood cells and healthy skin. A deficiency in this vitamin may cause symptoms like oily facial skin, acne and flaky, inflamed skin. Vitamin B12 is involved in cellular synthesis and longevity.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C has anti-inflammatory properties and helps stabilize cellular membranes. Thus, it can aid in skin healing. Vitamin C also plays a major role in the production of collagen, which is a key component of the skin. This nutrient also has anti-histamine properties, helping to reduce the itchiness associated with eczema. Dr. Balch recommends supplementing vitamin C in combination with bioflavonoids, which are plant chemicals that work in synergy with vitamin C.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin with antioxidant properties. It helps relieve skin itching and dryness, which are common symptoms of eczema. In a study published in the April 2010 issue of "Pediatric Allergy and Immunology," Dr. Masayuki Okuda and colleagues evaluated the link between vitamins E and A and eczema. The study involved almost 400 children. Researchers found that children who had the highest levels of tocopherols, which are vitamin E compounds, had 67 percent lower risk of developing eczema compared with children who had lower levels of vitamin E in the blood. Although the study could not fully explain the connection between vitamin E intake and eczema, Dr. Masayuki Okuda suggests that the benefits of this vitamin may derive from its antioxidant and immune-boosting properties.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; James Balch, M.D. and Phyllis Balch, C.N.C; 2002
- "The Pill Book Guide to Natural Medicines"; Michael Murray, ND; 2002
- Pediatric Allergy and Immunology: Association of serum carotenoids and tocopherols with atopic diseases in Japanese children and adolescents
