Health Matters

Eczema is the common term for atopic dermatitis - a chronic, allergic skin irritation. An itchy, flaking rash may appear on the inner surface of elbows and knees, the backs of the upper arms, wrists, cheeks, scalp, or eyelids. From the homeopathic point of view, the suppression of skin eruptions (especially with cortisone or other drugs) can lead to deeper health problems. Homeopathic and herbal remedies can be soothing during flare ups -but for deeper treatment, a constitutional remedy should be chosen by an experienced practitioner, to fit a person on many levels, and bring the body into better balance.

Remedies Available

Antimonium crudum: People likely to respond to this remedy have eczema with thick cracked skin and are also prone to indigestion. They are usually sensitive and sentimental, love to eat sour things, and may be overweight. Itching is worse from warmth and sun exposure. Antimonium crudum is often indicated for impetigo, plantar warts as well as eczema.

Aresenicum album: People who need this remedy usually are anxious, restless, and compulsively neat and orderly. The skin is dry, itches, and burns intensely. Scratching can make itching worse, and applying heat will bring relief. Indigestion with burning pain and a general feeling of chilliness are often seen when Arsenicum is indicated.

Arum triphyllum: This remedy can be useful when allergic skin eruptions are focused on the lower part of face, especially around the mouth. The skin may look chapped and feel hot and irritated. The lips are cracked and the nostrils may be sore, People who need this remedy are often inclined toward throat irritation.

Calcarea carbonica: This remedy is suited to people who are chilly with clammy hands and feet, and tend to develop eczema and cracking skin that is worse in the wintertime. They are easily fatigued by exertion, and feel anxious and overworked. Cravings for sweets, sluggish metabolism, and a tendency toward weight problems are other indications.

Calendula: This remedy can be helpful if the irritated skin has a tendency to get infected. Topical use of the herb in lotion, gel or tincture form is soothing to the irritated skin, and can often ease inflammation and prevent infection.

Graphites: People likely to respond to this remedy have tough skin with cracks and soreness, and often have long-term history of skin disorders. The areas behind ears, around the mouth, or the hands are often cracked, with a golden oozing discharge that hardens into crusts. Difficulty concentrating, especially in the morning is often seen in a person who needs Graphites.

Rhus toxicodendron: A person whose eczema has blisterlike eruptions that look red and swollen, itch intensely and are soothed by hot applications may respond to this remedy. The person is restless from discomfort with irritability. A person who needs Rhus tox often craves for cold milk.

Petroleum: This remedy is indicated for individuals whose skin is extremely dry and tends to crack, especially on the finger tips and palms. Eczema is worse in winter, with deep, sore cracks that often bleed. Itching is worse at night and from getting warm in bed. The skin is easily infected, and may get tough and leathery from chronic irritation.

Sulphur: Intensely burning, itching, inflamed eruptions that are worse from warmth and worse from bathing suggest a need for this remedy. Affected areas may be red, with scaling or crusted skin. Eruptions can be either dry or moist. This remedy will help those who have repeatedly used medications or ointments on their eczema without much success.

Homeopathy Dosage Directions
Select a remedy that most closely matches the symptoms. In conditions where self-treatment is appropriate, unless otherwise directed by a physician, a lower potency (6X,6C,12X 12C,30X OR 30C) should be used. Instructions normally are given on the label.

Many homeopathy physicians suggest that remedies be used as follows: Take one dose and wait for a response. If improvement is seen, continue to wait and let the remedy work.

Always consult a qualified Homeopath, before taking any advice.