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.

Aug

1

Black Henna Tattoos Causing Eczema Flare Ups in Kids

Filed Under Eczema Triggers, Care for Eczema Skin, Eczema News, Eczema Child | 1 Comment

Does your kid get black henna tattoos at carnivals, shopping centres and birthday parties? If he or she has sensitive skin and prone to irritations, beware. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) has just issued a warning that black henna tattoos contain a chemical called para-phenylenediamine (PPD), which can cause serious allergic reactions. PPD was commonly used for black hair dye. It is now being added to natural henna in order to increase the intensity and longevity of the temporary tattoo. While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration prohibits the direct application of PPD to the skin because of known health risks, there are no regulations within the tattoo industry.

What is most alarming is that kids as young as four are the ones who are being exposed. Parents think that temporary tattooes are safe and fun and that they can be washed off easily. Prior to this latest announcement, I’ve not known better either.

However, off the records, there have been hundreds of reported cases of black tattoos causing allergic contact dermatitis. It was noted that reactions ranged from mild eczema to blistering and permanent scarring.

The only safe tattoo, it seems, is a vegetable henna and not a PPD-adulterated one. Well, but how do you tell them apart? Or would you be privvy to this information just prior to your kid getting one with a tattoo artist? You cannot guarantee that you will be informed duly.

The best prevention, therefore, is not to let your kid go for a temporary tattoo. It will be hard, I know. My kids just love the beautiful and intricate drawings of fairies, flowers and butterflies on their hands and even, faces. I can just hear them protesting and sulking away!

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