Environmental irritants, food allergies and contact with poisonous plants can cause rashes in people of any age. Children, with their sensitive skin, may find the itchy, red bumps to be a major irritation. If you would rather treat your child's rash with natural methods than buy medicine over the counter, folk medicine offers you a wealth of ways to soothe the afflicted areas. If the rash persists, consult your pediatrician. These remedies should not replace a doctor's advice.
Step 1
Wet a washcloth with cold water. Cover the affected areas with it lightly to soothe the irritation. Don't rub or press on the rash.
Step 2
Fill a teapot with a handful of ginger root or dock, ragweed, rhubarb, plantain or acorn leaves. Pour boiling water into the teapot, and let the herbs steep for several minutes. Strain out the herbs, allow the tea to cool and apply it to the rash with a washcloth.
Step 3
Make a strong infusion of any of these herbs and add it to your child's bath if his rash covers large areas of his body. Alternatively, tie a washcloth around a handful or two of raw oats and drop the cloth into the bath. Squeeze the cloth periodically to free the infusion into the bathwater.
Step 4
Dab aloe vera gel onto the rash. Aloe is also good for burns and dry skin.
Step 5
Tell your child to avoid scratching or picking the rash. Pat it dry after bathing or applying teas. Be as gentle with the area as possible.
Tips and Warnings
- Choose whichever rash-healing herb is available at natural health stores in your area. Avoid harsh soaps and laundry detergents and dress your child in smooth, cotton fabrics until the rash clears.
- If the rash persists, or if it becomes swollen or develops red streaks, contact your pediatrician immediately. If the rash is a bruise-like purple color or your child is struggling to breathe, call 911. Do not apply herbal teas to open wounds.
Things You'll Need
- Washcloth
- Teapot with strainer
- Ginger root or dock, ragweed, rhubarb, plantain or acorn leaves
- Raw oats
- Aloe vera gel
