ECZEMA

This is a problem that causes untold misery to sufferers and I include it in the ailments section with trepidation. Why ? Some types of eczema respond badly to essential oils – or to any other scented product, for that matter. When the cause is obvious, such as an almost immediate, local skin inflammation to a piece of jewellery worn next to the skin, or an itchy rash after using an unfamiliar household product, it is easy to eliminate the allergen and thus “cure” the problem by avoidance. However, this is complicated by the fact that anyone can become allergic to anything at any time !!

Obviously, for permanent relief from atopic dermatitis (eczema that appears on the skin away from the allergen), the cause must be isolated and avoided for permanent relief.

Although several essential oils are recommended in the reference textbooks, I have to say, from experience, that only one has helped me personally – Chamomile oil.

For weeping eczema of the scalp, try putting 5 drops into 20ml unscented shampoo. Wash the hair, rinse and condition with unscented conditioner (one with aloe vera is good). Leave on for 5-10 minutes and comb through gently, then rinse thoroughly.

Heat tends to worsen eczema, so I would recommend drying the hair with a hairdryer on the coolest setting.

For atopic dermatitis of the arms, legs and trunk, 8 drops of pure Chamomile essential oil in a bath (avoid using too hot water) can soothe itchiness, but leave out the carrier oil.

Afterwards, moisturise the skin.