Eczema: Most Effective Dietary Supplements

Eczema, or dermatitis, is a very common inflammatory skin condition. Characterized by redness, intense itching, and sometimes oozing, this condition undergoes phases of remission and flare-ups often triggered by environmental, immune, or genetic factors. It prompts up to 30% of dermatology consultations. Although uncomfortable, the symptoms can be alleviated through a combination of natural treatments.

What is Eczema?

Eczema refers to skin inflammation, often associated with a malfunction of the skin barrier and an excessive immune system response. There are several forms of eczema, with atopic dermatitis being the most common. It mainly affects children, although it may persist into adulthood. Contact eczema, on the other hand, results from an allergic or irritative reaction to specific substances. The skin barrier dysfunction is often caused by mutations in the filaggrin gene, an essential protein for the integrity of the epidermis. When this barrier is compromised, allergens and irritants penetrate the skin more easily, triggering an excessive inflammatory response. This process is amplified by immune factors, such as increased Th2 cytokines, which promote IgE production and amplify inflammation.

Symptoms of Eczema

Manifestations of eczema vary according to its type and stage. Among the most common symptoms are: • Red patches accompanied by intense itching, which worsens with scratching. • The appearance of vesicles that may ooze before forming crusts. • Dry and thickened skin during chronic phases, with an increased risk of fissures and pain. These symptoms may be located at skin folds, hands, scalp, or even the entire body in severe cases. The psychological impact is also significant, as eczema can cause social discomfort and disturb sleep.

How to Treat Eczema?

Topical treatments include the regular application of emollients to restore the skin barrier and reduce irritations. Corticosteroids are often prescribed to calm inflammatory flare-ups. For sensitive areas, such as the face or folds, calcineurin inhibitors like tacrolimus can be used.Phototherapies, such as UVB, are an option for moderate to severe forms when conventional treatments fail. They help reduce inflammation with few side effects. In cases of superinfection, antibiotics may be necessary, but their use should be limited to avoid resistance.

Natural Solutions to Relieve Eczema

Eczema, especially in its chronic forms, can be effectively treated with natural solutions that relieve symptoms while restoring the body's internal balance. Some medicinal plants possess soothing and anti-inflammatory properties ideal for eczema: • Burdock: known for its purifying effect, it helps eliminate toxins responsible for skin imbalances. • Aloe vera: its gel deeply hydrates, promotes healing, and soothes irritations. • Nettle: used in infusion or topical application, it soothes itching. A herbal tea combining plants like chamomile, elderflower, and wild pansy can also be beneficial, especially when added to bathwater to soothe lesions. Essential oils (EO) can complement the management of eczema: • EO of lavender aspic: anti-inflammatory and regenerative, it can be applied diluted on lesions. • EO of tea tree: antibacterial, it prevents infections in open wounds. • EO of Roman chamomile: soothing, it reduces itching and calms irritations. And finally topical treatments to protect and hydrate the skin: • Vegetable oils: coconut oil, rich in fatty acids, moisturizes the skin and combats inflammation. Sweet almond oil is ideal for dry areas. • Shea butter: it restores the skin barrier and reduces the feeling of tightness. • Aloe vera gel: applied directly, it promotes the healing of cracks and soothes oozing lesions. Diet also plays an important role in managing eczema. An anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3s and antioxidants helps reduce flare-ups. Foods to avoid include refined sugars, dairy products, and foods high in histamines (such as tomatoes or chocolate). Supplementation with zinc, manganese, sulfur, or probiotics can also support skin regeneration and strengthen the immune system.