Nov
11
Eczema on the foot needs special attention because this is the part of your body that has a great chance of coming into touch with allergens. Often on the surface of the ground, your foot is more exposed to dust and dirt. You can start to itch easily, causing you a great deal of discomfort. I recall having a toe that was particularly sensitive. The rest of my foot healed with the exception of this toe. It was only through a period of time, that the itch completely disappeared.
There are mainly 5 types of eczema affect the feet and legs. These types are atopic eczema, discoid eczema, irritant contact dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, and varicose eczema. Mostly, the method of treatment is via steroid creams. However, if you try to pay more care and attention to your feet, it is possible to reduce inflammation.
For instance, always ensure that you have got proper footwear if you are venturing outdoors. Also, keep your feet moisturized and as I have always recommended, look into your diet. Avoid wearing socks in scratchy fabric such as wool. The wrong type of fabric on your feet can aggravate your eczema further. Also, if you are using the wrong detergent, you can be more subsceptible to irritant contact dermatitis.
Varicose eczema is very often seen in people who have varicose veins. Hence, this condition is mostly common in the elderly. Your skin ends up looking speckled with the lesions that are swollen on the feet and legs. It is also itchy. Also, the ankles are the most common area where you see varicose eczema.
We tend to take care of our faces more than our feet. But a feet that has got eczema warrants attention. A health condition means that something is amiss and that you should investigate further for immediate action.
Nov
6
Herbs To Reduce Stress For Eczema Relief
Filed Under Eczema Treatment, Eczema Triggers, Natural Eczema Treatment | Leave a Comment
One of the triggers for eczema is stress. It is no secret that an increase in stress levels can also contribute to an increased tendency to itch. It is almost like an automatic response of the body.
You may be surprised to find out that an estimated 70% of doctor visits is attributed to stress. While stress in itself is not a disease, it can worsen any physical condition. Admittedly, stress takes a major toll on the health of most people at large. A prolonged exposure to stress weakens the immune system, causing an increased vulnerability to the attack of bacteria and toxins. When the mental state of mind is affected, depression, fatigue, headaches, stomach upset, body dsyfunction and cancer sets in. While there are medications available for stress relief their side effects are numerous and long term affects unknown. The use of herbs as medicine can be generally considered as a safer alternative.
Luckily, in the market, you can find certain herbal products or formulations that have shown to help in reduced stress levels. These include Bach’s rescue remedy. It consists of 5 different flower essences. There are different such combinations. The standard combination is used for relieving stress and anxiety. Fuschen and Dragon Bone Formula is a popular Chinese remedy for stress that includes Dragon bone, Albizia bark, and Ginseng, Oyster shell, Ginger, Cinnamon and Fuschen plant.
For depression, natural health healers also tend to recommend a herb known as valerian. It is a traditional natural treatment of stress. Kava Kava, the latest addition, is also another consideration. Valerian relaxes the muscles, nervous system and induces deep sleep. Kava is a derivative of the pepper family. You can consume it in pill or liquid form. When taken, it brings about a sense of well being, without affecting your mental alertness.
Passionflower contains flavonoids, which act as anti oxidants. It also acts as a sedative for people who suffer from anxiety. Hops are a mild tranquilizer and its use is indicated for those who are unable to sleep due to stress, anxiety and irritability.
St Johns Wort and Ginkgo are commonly used as mood stabilizers because they aid in the increase of endorphin levels. Both also have properties that improve immune function contributing to overall health and wellness and in turn helping to manage stress. Most of the herbs are used as stress management supplements mainly for their tranquilizing and mood stabilizing properties.
Please do note that before consuming any herbal medicine, you will have to check with your doctor. Herbs may be a safer alternative to drugs but that does not mean that they are completely safe either. Some herbs in fact can be highly potent. If you are also taking some western medicine, then it is also important that you do not mix unless your doctor say it is safe for you to do so. In conclusion, if you can reduce stress, you would be in a much better position to treat your eczema condition.
