Is Vinegar Good For Eczema?

Eczema is defined as a chronic skin disorder characterized by long-term skin inflammation resulting in itchy rashes and scaling. While atopic eczema is the most common form of this condition, other forms of eczema include contact dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, nummular eczema and dyshidrotic eczema. As of 2011, there is no cure for eczema; however, medications can help reduce symptom severity. Proponents of vinegar claim this solution may also provide relief from eczema symptoms; however, scientific evidence is lacking to fully support this claim. Talk with your doctor before using vinegar to treat any form of eczema.

Active Compounds

The compounds found in vinegar are directly related to what materials are used to form the vinegar. Because vinegar may be made from any substance containing sugar, such as fruits, vegetables and grains, exact constituents will vary; however, no matter what the vinegar is made from, vitamin B1, riboflavin, mineral salts and acetic acid will be present.

Claims of Symptom Relief

Proponents of vinegar suggest topically applying it directly on the skin can help reduce eczema symptom severity. Although scientific data regarding this use is limited, the March 2011 issue of “The Herbal Dispatch” published by The Medicinal Botanicals Program at Mountain State University suggests the topical application of apple cider vinegar and water can help relieve itching and dryness associated with eczema.

Vinegar Solutions

The application of a 50/50 mixture of apple cider vinegar and water to affected areas is recommended by “The Herbal Dispatch” to treat minor eczema symptoms; however, if you have sensitive skin, tweak this solution by combining 30 to 40 percent vinegar and 60 to 70 percent water. Proponents of vinegar also suggest adding 2 cups of vinegar to bathwater and soaking in the solution for 30 minutes to treat eczema. While vinegar may be consumed orally, you must only drink small amounts. David L. Katz, M.D. writes in “O, The Oprah Magazine” that 1 to 3 tbsp. per day of orally consumed vinegar is generally safe.

Safety Considerations

Talk with your doctor before starting a topical or oral vinegar supplementation routine, to ensure its safety -- especially if you’re taking medications for eczema. Some of the most common side effects associated with internal vinegar consumption include throat irritation and heartburn. Additionally, consuming vinegar over a long period of time can be detrimental to your health, as vinegar is known to erode tooth enamel and leach calcium from your bones.