Approximately 3 percent of the general population suffers from seborrheic dermatitis, an inflammatory condition of the skin of the scalp and trunk, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. The condition looks unsightly and can cause mild to severe symptoms as well as embarrassment. While the need for further scientific proof exists, the herb calendula may offer relief in the treatment of seborrheic dermatitis. Check with your doctor, however, before use.
Seborrheic Dermatitis
Affecting the head, upper body and skin folds, seborrheic dermatitis can cause symptoms ranging from mild dandruff to itchy skin, redness, inflammation and yellowish scaling. The skin problem can occur in any age group, and when left untreated, bacterial infection can lead to dense, greasy lesions. Although genetic, environmental, hormonal and neurological factors may predispose certain people to the condition, the exact cause remains undetermined.
About Calendula
Calendula, an attractive ornamental and culinary herb, reaches heights of 18 inches and bears long leaves and sunny orange and yellow flowers that have therapeutic use. Midwives have used calendula for centuries in baths or lotions to aid perineal tears. During the Civil War, soldiers used the herb topically to help heal bullet wounds. Today, its fresh flower heads and petals work externally as first-aid treatments for scrapes, cuts, scalds and chapped and cracked skin in both herbal and homeopathic medicine.
Calendula Benefits
Used topically in Europe to combat dry skin, diaper rash and cradle cap, or infant seborrheic dermatitis, calendula has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that appear to help relieve seborrheic dermatitis. Calendula creams may help hydrate dry skin and ease pain and inflammation associated with dermatitis. According to Steven Foster, author of the book "National Geographic Desk Reference to Nature's Medicine," calendula contains antibacterial compounds that reputedly have demonstrated results in treating lesions. Foster also reports that clinical studies conducted with breast cancer patients indicate that calendula helps prevent dermatitis for women undergoing radiation treatment.
Cautions
Generally considered safe for topical use, calendula has allergic potential and may cause skin rash if you have allergies to plants in the daisy family. Calendula can accelerate the sedative effect of anti-anxiety medications. Due to reputed action on the menstrual cycle, pregnant and nursing women should avoid the herb. In addition, the University of Maryland Medical Center advises that couples attempting to conceive should refrain from using calendula.
References
- American Academy of Family Physicians: Treatment of Seborrheic Dermatitis
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center: Calendula
- "Prescription for Herbal Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch; 2002
- "National Geographic Desk Reference to Nature's Medicine"; Steven Foster, et al.; 2006
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Calendula
