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120+ Alternative Topical Treatments for Ezcema

The majority of the treatments here are natural / alternative treatments or use ancient traditional medicine, however, there are some regular creams mentioned that are not as natural as what I would like to use, however, desperate times call for desperate measures and I would rather use regular treatments than steroids.

I grew up knowing about eczema. My mom has had eczema for years. Years and years. My first daughter had it a bit and it went away with just a few creams. Now my second daughter has it and it's pretty bad. She had a bit in the winter and then around May she got a patch on the back of her knees and it's just spread to the front of her legs, her stomach, her neck, the crooks of her elbows, and her armpits. I look at her and I just want to cry. Summer is when she has flare-ups and I tried just about everything. I'm glad it's winter since that seems to make it go away.

I've looked online and talked to people about what can help eczema. We've tried so many things that are supposed to be remedies or cure eczema. As far as I know, you can't cure eczema. It's impossible It's always there like a sleeping giant. No one knows exactly what causes eczema or how to get rid of it forever.

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YouTube: I talk about a couple eczema remedies that I have recently tried. Be sure to subscribe to my channel!

What is Eczema?
It's a skin condition that results in red, itchy skin. Sometimes it can be dry and other times it is wet and weepy. While scratching it may provide immediate relief, it makes it worse and spreads. Sometimes infection can settle in eczema flare-ups, so you really have to be careful of bacteria and even staph infections. It is rare, but people have died from eczema due to staph. I have heard of people using ACV (apple cider vinegar) to counteract the bacteria that causes staph infections. This may or may not work for you. Please consult with your care provider.

What Causes Eczema?
Atopic dermatitis, or eczema can plague old and young people alike. It's a hyper immune (autoimmune) issue and due to inflammation. You need to treat it holistically and reduce the inflammation. You can't just treat it topically and expect it to go away. You need to make lifestyle changes. No one really knows what causes it but there are some theories. There are many things that can trigger flare ups.
  • The weather some people are affected by the heat, others by the cold. Some people react in humid environments and others in dry. 
  • Allergens such as dust, pollen, and pet dander.
  • Micro-organisms such as viruses, fungi, yeast, bacteria, and black mold (See? not everything that's natural is good)
  • Personal and household products such as detergent, lotion, soap, and household cleaners.
  • Mental factors such as stress
  • Food (even healthy food such as nightshades can trigger flare-ups) Eliminating gluten, eggs, dairy, sugar, and soy can often help. 
  • Antibiotics
  • Clothing, towels, and sheets
Try to Avoid Steroids
Steroids destroyed my mom's skin and they're all the doctors have offered us. It's shocking that after 30 years, they are still offering the same remedies. They can mess with your gut health, your liver, cause hair loss, thin your skin, cause swelling, hot flashes, chills, and other problems. I downright refuse to use them.

TSA (topical steroid addition) and TSW (topical steroid withdrawal) are major issues. Here's a good article about how steroids can cause more harm than good. Here's another one about corticosteroids, immunosuppressants and eczema.

Safety Issues
Many people believe that natural means safe, but that is not true. There are many things in natural that can harm or kill you. Please do your own research and patch test before using these items. This list is just to give you ideas, it is not meant to provide diagnosis, treatment or medical advice. Content is for informational purposes only. Please consult with a doctor, physician or other healthcare professional regarding any medical or health related diagnosis or treatment options. Information  should not be considered as a substitute for advice from a healthcare professional. The statements made about specific products are not to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.


YouTube

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Topical Treatments
I'm not going to say what things have worked for us, simply because what works for one person may not work for another and it was disappointing to hear about a miracle cure that worked for everyone but didn't work for us. Another reason is that sometimes one thing helps one time and then it just stops working. There are a lot of items listed here and I have not tried them all. I have tried a lot of things though.

Treating eczema can get expensive. I suggest using what you already have first and treating the gut. Most people have somethings in the house that they can use, such as olive oil. I've bought some, borrowed from others, made some items, and had other things lying around the house.

Please be aware that natural does not always mean safe; there are plenty of things in nature that are harmful. Everyone will react differently. Look at peanuts, they can kill some people. There is a reason you need to do a patch test before applying a product all over.

If you are pregnant or nursing, please talk to your provider before beginning any treatment. None of the information on this blog should be construed as medical advice, it is informational only. It is not meant to provide diagnosis, treatment or medical advice. Content is for informational purposes only. Please consult with a physician or other healthcare professional regarding any medical or health related diagnosis or treatment options. Information  should not be considered as a substitute for advice from a healthcare professional. The statements made about specific products are not to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.


A Warning About Manuka Honey
There are a lot of fakes out there. Check to see if the company is legit through the UMF website where they have a listing of registrered brands. Manuka honey is graded from 0-30. Most people believe that UMF 15+ is necessary to have any effect. Other ways of grading honey are MGO, KFactor, and NPA and you can see the comparison here.


The List of Topical Treatments 
Below you can find the following:
  • Balms, Lotions, Serums, and Creams
  • Butters
  • Essential Oils, Absolutes, Resins, and Hydrosols 
  • Herbs and Flowers
  • Mind and Body Care
  • Single Ingredients

Balms, Lotions, Serums, and Creams
Discount code: MooGoo offers $10 off your first order of $40 or more by using the code MGRE-SHAR-DB2A27. You must create an account with them in order for the discount code to work. 
  • Acai and Copaiba Balm is from Rainforest Chica. They also have a vegan version.
  • Bacuri andPracaxi Balm is from Rainforest Chica. They also have a vegan version.
  • Buriti and Andiroba Balm is from Rainforest Chica. They also have a vegan version.
  • Chloe Mason Soaps' Organic Aloe Vera Healing Cream. She had it with peppermint essential oil and that's not a safe oil for kids, so I got a special order without it.
  • DeRu Extract's Powerhouse Salve. It has a handful of oils, such as emu and trauma oil, plus essential oils, hemp oil, lecithin, and beeswax.
  • DeRu Extract Super Salve. It has a handful of oils such as emu, plus beeswax, hemp oil, and other essential oils. 
  • Eucerin Eczema Relief has a handful of ingredients I really don't feel comfortable using. However, my mom said, if it works, use it.
  • Forces of Nature Eczema Control is a homeopathic treatment. The 11ml bottle is a dropper bottle. I hate dropper bottles so much. I always seem to knock them over. I suggest buying it and immediately decanting it into a roller ball. It has a handful of herbs and essential oils in a sesame oil base. All the ingredients are certified organic. Some of the essential oils are not safe for kids. You can find all the ingredients on their site. 
  • Frezyderm Anticort is said to be like cortisone, but without the steroid. It's a homeopathic remedy that is popular in Europe. 
  • Green Goo Dry Skin is a balm with beeswax, oils, herbs, and lavender essential oil. It comes in a glass jar with a plastic top that has broken since I've dropped it a few times.
  • Homemade Balm with shea butter, coconut oil, cocoa butter, jojoba oil, sweet almond oil, argan oil, and castor oil.
  • Homemade Honey Cream: I made this with cocoa butter, olive oil, and raw honey. Keep it in the fridge.
  • Manuka Magic Healing Cream is one of the first I got. I had the old version, which was called Magic Cream or something like that. It has manuka honey as well as wheatgerm oil, and other oils, and essential oils. My issue is the last ingredient, which is simply listed as preservative. That really doesn't tell us much, does it?
  • MooGoo Coverup Buttercup is a lotion with SPF 15 and I originally got it as a light sunscreen. I've been told that zinc oxide is supposed to help with eczema, so I've been slathering it on my daughter. I'm not sure what percentage the zinc oxide is. Their anti-ageing cream is also SPF 15 and it says 19%, so maybe this is similar. MooGoo offers $10 off your first order of $40 or more by using the code MGRE-SHAR-DB2A27. You must create an account with them in order for the discount code to work. 
  • MooGoo Natural Sunscreen SPF 30 is something I didn't like when I first got it. I had the old version is an airless pump. It was impossible to pump and water always came out first. I finally decided to pry the top off and scoop some of it out. It has 25% zinc oxide and that's really supposed to help with eczema. Put it on your skin and let it warm up a bit before rubbing it in. It does leave a bit of white for a minute or two until it gets absorbed. MooGoo offers $10 off your first order of $40 or more by using the code MGRE-SHAR-DB2A27. You must create an account with them in order for the discount code to work. 
  • MooGoo Eczema Cream (discontinued) came in an airless pump and had colloidal oatmeal. Their Irritable Skin Balm is supposed to be similar, but does not have the oatmeal is in.
  • MooGoo Irritable Skin Balm has a handful of oils and extracts in it. A lot of people love this product. MooGoo offers $10 off your first order of $40 or more by using the code MGRE-SHAR-DB2A27. You must create an account with them in order for the discount code to work. 
  • MooGoo MSM Cream is something I was really wary about since we have sulfur allergies in our family and this has sulfur in it. MooGoo offers $10 off your first order of $40 or more by using the code MGRE-SHAR-DB2A27. You must create an account with them in order for the discount code to work. 
  • Prime Physique Nutrition's Conqueror Soothing Dry Skin Balm. Made with 15 oils, butters, and essential oils it is sure to help you out. The issue I have with this product is that it's in a plastic jar and it has neem oil in it, which can be an issue with young children.
  • Province Apothecary's Eczema Healing Balm has calendula and zinc. 
  • Sudocrem's Antiseptic Healing Cream is super affordable and common in the UK. It's supposed to be good for diaper rash, eczema, and surface wounds, among others. You can find it on Amazon in tubes or Ebay in jars.
  • Yoro's Organic Manuka Skin Soothing Cream from Yoro gets amazing reviews, but it has water like the Eczema Honey Cream. You could probably make this yourself and omit the water.

Butters
Discount code: Rainforest Chica offers 5% off through this link. Click on Get Discount.

I get my butters from Rainforest Chica or Better Shea Butter (She only has cocoa, mango, and shea). I get unrefined butters since any sort of refinement can take away the nutrients. Other good places to get butters are from Aura Cacia, AVAT, Life-flo, and NOW.
  • Bacuri Butter is said to help with skin troubles. Rich in lysine, it has been proven to help with eczema.
  • Cocoa Butter is hard at room temp and helps with damaged skin.
  • Cupuacu Butter has a 200% higher water absorption rate than lanolin. It's great for treating skin disorders, can keep moisture from evaporating, and helps with the healing process.
  • Mango Butter helps hydrate the skin.
  • Murumuru Butter helps moisturize, is anti-allergenic, anti-bacterial, and-inflammatory, and anti-viral.
  • Shea Butter helps moisturize the skin and is anti-inflammatory. 
  • Tucuma Butter helps protect the skin.

Carrier Oils
Discount codes:  
Carrier oils can come from plants or animals. Some of them can be found very cheaply in your grocery store. They are also known as vegetable oils. I prefer unrefined oils (except when using animal derived ones) since they maintain all their nutrients. Although I do have some non-organic oils, I am trying to buy organic from now on. I get my oils from a variety of places, such as . . .

Some other brands that have been recommended to me (but I do not have any carrier oils from) are Florihana (FL) and Eden's Garden (EG).

* Means that you should be careful with this oil around kids. Please do your own research. 
  • Almond, Sweet Oil (AC, AVAT, EG, FL, LF, NOW, PT) is mild and a natural remedy for eczema and psoriasis by moisturizing dry, itchy skin.
  • Andiroba Oil (RFC) this Brazilian oil is said to be anti-inflammatory and help with a wide range of skin problems. It also helps with pain relief. 
  • Avocado Oil (AC, AVAT, EG, FL, LF, NOW, PT) is fully of beneficial fatty acids. It helps moisturise, regenerate, and protect your skin. It is anti-inflammatory as well.
  • Borage Oil (AVAT, FL) has 2-3 times GLA than evening primrose oil and is said to help improve the skin barrier.
  • Castor Oil (AC, NOW) is such a thick oil that I almost dread using it but it's like coconut oil; an oil that you must have on hand because it seems to fix everything, both inside and out. It's said to help heal dry, irritated skin. Some people also do castor oil packs which they apply to their abdomen, they are said to flush out toxins. Women and children need to be especially careful when using them.
  • CBD Oil is legal in all 50 states. It is different than THC or cannabis. Many believe this is a miracle cure. The Zen Butterfly Apothecary has flavored and unflavored versions.
  • Coconut Oil (AC, AVAT, EG, FL, HT, LF, NOW, PT). Is there anything coconut oil can't do? I personally find it drying, but I know that many people swear by it. Plus, most people already have it in their house, so you don't have to go out and buy yet another eczema potion. Evolving Wellness has a good article about good and bad brands. Natural Living Ideas explains about the different types of coconut oil.
  • Copaiba Oil Resin (RFC) is used in Brazilian traditional medicine and has been said to help with a variety of skin troubles. It's antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory. There is also copaida essential oil and you can get that from AVAT, EG, and PT.
  • Evening Primrose Oil (AVAT, EG, LF, NOW, PT) has GLA which is supposed to be great for dry skin. Borage oil, listed above, has a higher rate of GLA. But what works for one person might not work for another.
  • Emu Oil is animal-derived. It must be refined. It's supposed to be very, very good for your skin. It's anti-inflammatory and is said to help with pain as well. It is said to be one of the best-kept secrets for soft, smooth skin since the fatty acids are very similar to the ones in our skin.  Some people say that aloe vera is similar to emu oil. I'm not going to get into a debate about whether using animals for oil is good or bad. I am going to say, please get your emu oil from an an ethical source. You can find a list at AEA, American Emu Association. I don't like dropper bottles, I knock them over and I don't like that the oil is exposed to light and air. I've heard good things about insta natural.
  • Foraha see Tamanu
  • Hemp Oil (AC, EG, LF, PT). Hemp plants are the new coconut oil. They can be used for so many things. The hemp oil I'm talking about it 100% legal. Some people even cook with it. You should have no problems finding it. It has fatty acids that help heal skin conditions. Many people say that it sinks right into their skin, I haven't found that to be true in my case. It seems to sit on top. Keep this oil in the fridge since it has a short shelf life! I buy mine from Just Hemp Foods.
  • Jojoba Oil (AC, AVAT, EG, FL, LF, NOW, PT). Ho-ho (ba) Merry Christmas oil has been around for years and years. It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties which are very close to our own sebum and can help sooth irritated skin.
  • *Neem (AVAT, NOW). Exercise caution when using with kids. I've asked when it's safe to use neem oil on children and have yet to get a solid answer. I have found out that you must dilute it and never ingest it! So if you think your child is going to lick themselves (let's be honest, your kid has done it), don't use it on them! It's a stinky, non-comedogenic oil and a little goes a long way. It's antiviral, anti-fungal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and analgesic (helps with pain)
  • Olive Oil (AVAT, FL) has gotten a bad rap out there due to all the reported fake oils. Here's what Forbes has to say about it. Here are some brands to avoid and ones that passed the test.  More oils that passed and even some more real oils. Olive oil is great for dry, flaky skin due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and antibiotic properties.
  • Sea Buckthorn Oil (AVAT) is an oil that I had never heard of, but that my mom swears by it. I think it's pretty expensive, but you only need a little bit. It has omega-7 as well as fatty acids that can help nourish your skin. It's antibacterial and anti-inflammatory and can help with generating healthy skin.
  • Soursop Oil (RFC) is another exotic Brazilian oil that helps with skin diseases. It's high in Vitamin C and is antibacterial. It's great for dry, itchy skin.
  • Squalane can be shark-derived or olive derived. It's supposed to be an amazing moisturiser and keep your skin well-hydrated without being greasy. It also sinks in fast, so no oily residue. It has similar properties to our skin. Although I'm all for unrefined oils, if you get the animal-derived, it must be refined. If you're looking for the olive oil version, Life-Flo, Timeless Skin Care and The Ordinary get good reviews. For the animal-derived version, check out Mayumi.
  • Sunflower Oil (AVAT, EG, FL, LF, PT) is something that many people have recommended to me for eczema. An oil that is often found in the grocery store, it made the top 3 list from Itchy Little World. It helps with ceramide (lipd molecules) production as well as being anti-inflammatory. High in linoleic acid, it provides many eczema sufferers from relief.
  •  Sweet Almond Oil, see Almond, Sweet.
  • Tamanu Oil (AVAT, EG, FL, LF, NOW, RFC, PT) has been used traditional for its potent healing properties and is revered by many cultures. It has also been research extensively and found to be antimicrobial as well as promote new cell growth. It is a very thick oil and very hydrating.
  • Walnut Oil (AVAT, EG, LF) is frequently used in cooking, so you just might have it in your pantry. It is a great moisturiser and has anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Wheatgerm Oil (AVAT, FL) ranks 5 out of 5 on the comedogenic rating. That means that it is very likely to clog pores. This same characteristic makes it good as a moisture-barrier, regenerates the skin, and softens it as well. Some people believe that comedogenic ratings don't mean much at all: Colin's Beauty Pages and Babe + Beauty.


Essential Oils, Absolutes, Resins, and Hydrosols
Please be careful when using essential oils. There is so much bad advice out there. I've heard people say add drops to water and drink it, just apply them neat (with no carrier oil), or add them to a bath. This is bad info. If you want to use them in the bath, Tisserand has general information about using essential oils in the bath as well as dispersing essential oils.

Essential oils are incredibly powerful. Power can be good or bad. Too much can be harmful or even deadly. Pets, babies, young children, and people with medical issues need to be especially careful. Here is some information on how to use essential oils safely with kids as well as dilution rates for everyone. Always dilute essential oils.

Hydrosols or hydrolats are the floral waters. Basically, it's the water left over from steam-distilling or hydrodistilling. They are less potent than essential oils and many people feel better using them on children instead of essential oils. Many of the expensive oils, such as neroli, rose, German chamomile, and helichrysum can be found in hydrosol form. I have heard good reviews about the ones from Florihana. If you are interested in using these essential oils, but they are out of your price range or you are wary about using essential oils on your children, I would highly recommend getting a hydrosol.

Resins are usually solid at room temperature. You may have to grind them into a powder in order to make tinctures. Benzoin usually comes in an essential oil container, but you will have to warm it up in order to use it. Dan Riegler from Apothecary's Garden and Fair Trade Frankincense is a world expert on resins. He sells on Etsy and has a blog with great info on how to grind resins and how to make an oil extract. I highly recommend checking his info out.

Phototoxicity: If an oil is phototoxic you need to make sure to avoid being in the sun. I personally would only apply it at night since the sun can reach your skin even under clothing.

Is organic better? I put together a post explaining what aromatherapists think about organic essential oils. You can read more here. 

How much do you need? Although citrus oils don't require that much plant material, many essential oils require pounds and pounds just to make a few milliliters. They don't last forever either. Citrus usually lasts about a year or so depending on how it's stored. Resins and woods often get better with age, but many oils only last a year or two. In addition, some people get an oil and decide that for some reason or another, they don't like it. In order to help reduce waste and save money, most people recommend buying smaller bottles to start with especially since oxygen in the bottles can cause them to go rancid. If you have a large bottle and it's half way full of oil, then it's halfway full of air and that will interact with the oil. If you're going to buy larger bottles, either use them quickly or decant them into smaller bottles.

Please get advice from a certified clinical aromatherapist and not from mommy bloggers or people who sell oils.  I was always told, "when in doubt, refer out". I am not an expert by any means. I provide links so that you can do your own research. Be wary of people who sell oils, the majority of them do NOT have much training at all. Many will say, "oh, our oils are pure, so you can use them on infants or even take them internally." No, just no. This is such bad, dangerous advice. Plenty of pure, natural things can harm or kill people. If someone says they are certified, ask which organisation they are certified with.

Not all people should use essential oils. Infants, children, people with certain medical conditions, and pets can all be harmed by incorrect usage. There are different dilutions depending on the person and the condition. Here is some useful info on dilution rates. If you are pregnant, might become pregnant, or nursing, you should definitely exercise caution and look up each oil before using it.

Essential Oils and Kids. Most aromatherapists error on the side of caution and agree not to use oils on infants under 3 months old. After that, the time varies according to the oil and the child, so do your research. Some can be used as early as 3 months. Other aromatherapists say avoid them until the child is at least 2. Some of them, such as rosemary and eucalyptus should be avoided until age 10. Sometimes you can diffuse the oil instead of using it topically. I cannot stress the importance of doing your own research. Oils that are NOT safe for kids (ages 2+ since as I mentioned they error on the side of caution) have an asterisk (*). Aromaweb, Esoteric Oils, and Using Essential Oils Safely have pretty good info and are written by aromatherapists.

Which brands should you buy? There are a lot of essential oil companies out there. I personally do not buy from MLMs. I find them to be overpriced and I do not like the idea behind them. I plan on creating a list of companies that sell pure, unadulterated essential oils, so watch this space. I will provide the link once I put together the post. I only recommend companies I use. There are a lot of other companies out there that I would like to try, however, these the ones are within my price range at the moment. They all have pure, unadulterated oils and will provide GCMS testing.
Below you can find a list of absolutes, essential oils, resins, and hydrosols that are thought to help with eczema. There is a lot to choose from. I highly recommend taking the time to research them and figure out what you think would work for you.
  • Angelica Root (AVAT, EG, FL) stimulates the immune system and eliminate toxins. Be careful, since this oil is phototoxic.
  • Bergamot (AVAT, EG, FL, PT) is known to help with skin troubles. It is *highly* phototoxic unless you get the FCF version.
  • Benzoin is a resin mixed with alcohol or an oleoresin. It is used to heal wounds and reduce inflammation, dry skin, and cracked skin. You can find it at Amrita, Florihana, or Stillpoint Aromatics.
  • *Birch (AVAT, EG) can be toxic! AVAT has more info about Birch. They say you should not use this unless you are an experienced certified clinical aromatherapist or under the care of one. Other places like Floracopeia say it's non-toxic in normal aromatherapy. Do your research and see what you are comfortable with. Birch is said to be an excellent germicide that cleanses and purifies the skin.
  • *Carrot Seed (AVAT, EG, PT) is often used in skin care products. With an earthy aroma, people either love it or hate it. It's a soothing oil that stimulates the skin renewal process, is healing, and helps moisturize your skin.
  • Chamomile, German (AVAT, EG, FL, PT) is one of those pretty rare, expensive blue oils that just make me happy looking at it. German chamomile is anti-fungal, anti-inflammatroy, and antisepctic. It helps inflammed skin heal. There's another chamomile and that's Roman, which is used for insomnia, aches, pains, and depression. You might want to consider buying a hydrosol from Florihana instead.
  • *Clove Bud (AVAT, EG, FL, PT) has been said to be amazing for helping eczema. It stimulates the healing process, is antimicrobial, antibacterial, and antiseptic.
  • Copaiba Oleoresin (AVAT, EG, PT) is used in Brazilian traditional medicine and has been said to help with a variety of skin troubles. It's antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory. There is also copaida oil and you can get that from Rainforest Chica.
  • *Eucalyptus (AVAT, EG, FL, PT) has a handful of different varieties available. Check out the descriptions and see what's right for you. Radiata is more gentle and often used for pain. Globulus is stronger and helps with congestion. These oils are said to be soothing and can relieve itching and redness.
  • Frankincense (AVAT, EG, FL, PT) is an essential oil and a resin that has been used in skincare throughout history. It's a coveted, precious oil. There are a handful of different versions of the essential oil, read the descriptions and see which one is right for you. Frankincense, in general, can help iwth wound care and reduce the appearance of scarring. Serrata is good for inflammation. Carteris is antimicrobial. Frereana is good for dry skin. The best place to buy the resin is from ApothecarysGarden.
  • Geranium (AVAT, EG, FL, PT) helps with dry, scarred skin. It's used to help heal the skin. There is Egyptian and Bourbon and both are good for skincare.
  • Helichrysum Italicum (AVAT, EG, FL, PT) is super expensive, so I would try other things first. It's a precious oil good for calming and repairing skin troubles. There's another heli and that's Helichrysum Spelndidum, which helps with congestion as well as scarring. You might want to consider buying a hydrosol from Florihana instead.
  • Hyssop (AVAT, EG, FL) has traditionally been used for its antiseptic qualities. It's helps with dry eczema and to keep moisture in the skin.
  • Juniper Berry (AVAT, EG, PT) is used to fight skin irritations due to its antiseptic, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory qualities. It's also soothing and can help with the itchiness and redness.
  • Lavender (AVAT, EG, FL, PT) is a staple in many traditional medicine cabinets. It's soothing for the skin and can help restore skin. It's antiseptic, antibacterial, and anti-fungal. There are a handful of different varieties available. Read the description and see which one will work best for you. Do not apply neat! Always dilute. Even though people thought it was safe to apply this oil directly to the skin, that is not true.
  • Litsea cubeba aka May Chang (AVAT, EG, FL, PT) is said to help calm rashes and sooth dry skin.
  • Marjoram, Sweet (AVAT, EG, FL, PT) is often used with insect bites and it has calming properties so can help with itchiness and pain.
  • Malaleuca see Tea Tree Oil
  • Manuka (AVAT, EG, FL) has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Like Manuka honey, it is soothing and can fight against infection while promoting healing.
  • Myrrh (AVAT, EG, FL, PT) is a precious essential oil and resin. The oil is pretty expensive, so I would try other things first or consider getting the resin. It's got anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It promotes healing. The best place to buy the resin is from ApothecarysGarden.
  • Neroli (AVAT, EG) is a precious oil that reminds me of royalty because it's way out of my price range. It's super expensive, so I would try other things first. Known for its skin rejuvenating properties, it can promote healing, relieve inflammation, pain, and itching. You might want to consider buying a hydrosol from Florihana instead.
  • Patchouli (AVAT, EG, FL, PT) has gotten somewhat of a bad rap since people assume that everyone who follows a natural lifestyle uses patchouli. It's one of those oils that you either love the smell of or hate it. I'm among the latter; I can't stand it. Used in traditional Asian medicine, it helps heal dry skin, promote wound healing, and also reduces the appearance of scars. It's anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antimicrobial, and antibacterial.
  • *Peppermint (AVAT, EG, FL, PT) has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce itching and pain. It's anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-fungal, and antimicrobial.
  • Rose can usually be found as an absolute or as a diluted essential oil, called bulgarian aka Rose Otto (AVAT, EG, FL, PT) is a precious oil. It's pretty expensive, so, I would try other things first. You might want to consider buying a hydrosol from Florihana instead.
  • *Rosemary (AVAT, EG, PT) is traditionally used for skin inflammation and irritation. It also has smoothing properties. There are a couple versions available. Read the description and find out which one is best for you.
  • Sandalwood (AVAT, EG, FL, PT) is a problematic oil due to the ethical sourcing issues. Companies can change sources at any moment and I do not know if AVAT, EG, FL, PT will be sourcing their sandalwood ethically when you buy it. The best thing to do is ask questions and check other oil companies if you can't find what you want. It is anti-inflammatory with moisturising and soothing properties. There are a couple versions available. Read the description and find out which one is best for you.
  • Silky Soft is a KidSafe synergy for dry skin from Plant Therapy. 
  • Skin Soother is a KidSafe synergy for rough skin from Plant Therapy.
  • *Soft Skin is a synergy for dry skin from Plant Therapy.
  • *Soothe Skin is synergy for rough skin from Plant Therapy.
  • Tea Tree Oil or Malaleuca (AVAT, EG, FL, PT) has anti-fungal and antiseptic properties. It helps with wounds, speeds up the healing process, and can prevent infection. It has a very distinct medicinal smell. Do not apply neat! Always dilute. Even though people thought it was safe to apply this oil directly to the skin, that is not true.
  • Thyme Linalool (AVAT, FL, PT) is antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and helps relieve pain. It helps calm itchy skin.

Herbs and Flowers
Once considered the norm as far as medicine goes, medicine men and women were revered for their knowledge. They were later replaced by conventional medicine and viewed by many as witchcraft and evil. Now they've fallen into favor again as people realise how to harness the power of plants. Some of these are teas, such as chamomile, and people just brew a pot of tea, use the tea bag on their skin as well as the tea (once it's cooled).

If you are going to forage plants, make sure that they have not been sprayed with pesticides. When in doubt, buy organic or grow your own 
  • Calendula is said to reduce inflammation, eliminate bacteria, and help the skin heal. It's also helpful in reducing itching.
  • Chamomile is an anti-inflammatory.
  • Comfrey is a bit controversial if you take it internally, however, topically it should be ok, just do your research. It's said to help treat skin eruptions such as eczema.
  • Lamb's Quarter (aka lambsquarter, pigweed, fat hen, white goosefoot, wild spinach, baconweed, dungweed) is a common weed that you should be able to find just about anywhere. Be careful though, Black nightshade is a toxic plant and it looks similar. Lamb's Qarter is waxy, not hairy. Here is how to tell the different. If you can't find it, you can grow your own. It's an ancient remedy that has been used to treat a variety of issues such as eczema, gout, and even colic.
  • Plantain (not the fruit) is used as a first aid treatment. You can chew the leaves, spit them out, and put them on eczema, bee stings, and other insect bites or create a salve. I'd do the latter.
  • Rose is used to make the skin soft and smooth. Rumor has it that Cleopatra used it as part of her beauty regime.
  • Stinging Nettle is an antihistamine and anti-inflammatory.
  • Yarrow is said to help with dry skin issues.

Mind and Body Care
Here are some techniques that you can try for eczema.
  • EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) tapping: This is slightly out there even for me, but desperate times call for desperate measures and it's free! You can find more info here.  
  • Hazelwood necklaces and bracelets are said to create a more alkaline environment in your body and can take 2-3 weeks to work. Etsy has a bunch or you can buy the loose beads and make your own. Hazelwood usually comes from Canada. They become saturated when the wood darkens and that can be as early as a month or so. Replace the hazelwood after that since it will stop working. They need to be worn 27/4 except when in water; don't get them wet. 
  • Feng Shui: Feng Shui masters believe that your environment can influence your body. Changing where you eat or sleep might be able to help you out. 
  • Massage can help eliminate toxins. Look for a massage therapist who is well-versed in non-contagious skin diseases.
  • Meditation: Mind over matter might be able to provide relief. You can also listen to meditation music while you sleep. Don't do this while driving or when you have any activity that requires concentration!
  • Sunlight is free! Many people are Vitamin D deficient and that is thought to help with eczema. If you can't get outside, try a sun lamp, such as the HappyLight or Vitamin D3 drops.
  • Water filters, Vitamin C filters, or Vitamin C tablets for the bath can help reduce the chlorine content and hard water. The jury is out as to whether more baths help or not. See how your skin reacts to bathing.
  • Wet wrapping is moist wound care. Here's a helpful info-graphic about wet wrapping, it's #5. 

Single Ingredients 
Here are some ingredients that are thought to help with eczema. Many people usually have some of these in their house already. Please patch test before using!
  • Aloe Vera is known to sooth skin irritations. It cannot be 100% unless you are cutting open a plant. Please read labels! I've seen so many that say 100% gel, aloe vera. They're just saying that it's 100% gel. Or ones that say with 100% aloe vera, yes, that aloe is 100% percent but the product isn't 100% alo vera. A preservative is needed in order to prevent mold, yeast, and bacteria from growing. Make sure you keep it in the fridge. The best brand I've found is Seven Minerals.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) get one with the mother. Some people apply is neat. I would dilute it first.
  • Baking Soda. That orange box of baking soda that you have in your house might not be the best thing. It's made in a lab and is a chemical process. Bob's Red Mill is mined from the naturally occuring source. It's slightly more expensive, but not by much.
  • Banana Peels. They have vitamin A, B, C and E, as well as potassium, zinc, iron and manganese which helps calm inflamed skin. Eat a banana, save the skin and put it flesh side down on the eczema. Buy organic is possible and make sure you wash the banana skin before peeling it and eating it!
  • Breastmilk is like coconut oil; it's supposed to fix everything. If you have it, you might as well try it. Plus it's free.
  • Collodial Silver see Sovereign Silver
  • Dead Sea Salt was recommended to me since it can help clear ezcema. Many people find eczema relief after swimming in the ocean due to the salt water. Just be careful, since there's a reason we have the saying, rub salt into wounds. Many people just add some to a bath and soak for a while. You can also add it to a pot and soak that area. How much you should use, I really don't know. I think a lot has to do with the severity of the eczema and your tolerance of salt water.
  • Epsom Salts are like Dead Sea Salt, which can help promote wound healing and clear eczema. Add to water and soak the affected skin.
  • Green Tea has a soothing, calming affect on skin. Organic, loose leaf is the best, but if you have a few green tea bags lying around your house, you might want to try throwing those in the bath to see if they help.
  • Hydrogen Peroxide gets very mixed reviews. It's a well-known antiseptic and germicide, however, some people say it can't tell the difference between healthy cells and unhealthy cells. Do your research before using.
  • Manuka honey comes from New Zealand. There are a lot of fakes out there. Check the UMF to see if that company is listed. Most people say it should be 15+ UMF in order to work for skin conditions. You can take it internally or apply it topically. 
  • Magnesium spray is thought to help since some people believe that eczema is caused by a magnesium deficiency. Do not spray on the eczema itself. It will burn! Also avoid after bathing since your pores are open and it will burn. Test it on yourself first. People say it burns because you are deficient. Spray on places that do not have eczema. Start with 1 spray and then follow the directions on the bottle to see how many sprays you should be using daily.
  • Pink Himalayan Salt is like Dead Sea Salt and Epsom Salt. It is said to promote wound healing and clear eczema. Add to water and soak the affected skin.
  • Probiotics are often taken orally, but you can also apply them topically. Make sure they are shipped cold!  These are the ones that turned up in a search that said they were shipped cold. Many probiotics are dead-on-arrival because they get too hot. Please double check before buying!
  • Sovereign Silver Bio-Active Silver Hydrosol is used both internally and externally. Do your research. Many people say it's amazing while other say it's not safe. 
  • Tallow is something that many people might have heard of it but have no idea what it actually is. Tallow soap and tallow candles come to mind. I told my husband I was going to slather the baby in tallow and he had no idea what I was talking about. Like animal-derived squalane and emu oil, this comes from animals. I told my vegan friend about this and after she found out what it was she said it was gross and bad, since it's animal-derived. I told her that she was the person who told me that some vegans actually do use products that are animal-derived for medical purposes and this was a medicinal purpose. So what is tallow? It is rendered suet, which is beef fat. Sounds gross, right? Don't care. I'm sure many people have reached a point where they have tried anything and I got to a point where rubbing beef fat on my child sounded like a better option than using steroids. Toxins are stored in fat so you need to get it from grass-fed cow and it has to be organic and the place to get that at is FannieandFlo. I prefer to get it in their glass mason jars. 
  • Zinc Oxide is commonly found in mineral sunscreens. I was using MooGoo Coverup Buttercup and MooGoo Natural Sunscreen SPF 30, but you may want to just buy it and add it to whatever you are using. Make sure it's uncoated and non-nano.

Soaps
Be careful of the soap you use. I don't use soap with any artificial fragrances and I'm also careful about using ones that have essential oils. If they do use essential oils, make sure they are safe for kids and diluted at a safe ratio.
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