Hello friends!
As your trusted Eczema Coach and Certified Holistic Nutritionist, I’m excited to explore natural remedies for eczema with you today. One of which is, chamomile.
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, can be quite irritating, stubborn and uncomfortable.
But chamomile might just be the gentle yet effective solution you’ve been looking for.
Let’s jump into how this flower can bring eczema relief to your irritated skin.
So, grab your favorite herbal tea, sit back, and let’s dive into the wonders of chamomile for eczema!
Historical Use of Chamomile for Skin Conditions
Ancient Civilizations and Chamomile
Let’s turn back the clock and understand how ancient civilizations used chamomile, one of the most common medicinal plants, throughout history for its healing properties.
- Egyptians:
- Chamomile was seen as a “gift from the gods.”
- They used it in skincare rituals, mainly to treat dryness and rashes.
- It’s rumored that Cleopatra herself used chamomile to keep her skin glowing and soft!
- Greeks and Romans:
- The Greeks and Romans also prized chamomile.
- The Greek physician Hippocrates, often known as the Father of Medicine, documented chamomile’s soothing qualities.
- The Romans infused chamomile into their baths to treat skin irritations and promote overall well-being.
- Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine:
- Ayurvedic practitioners and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) have used chamomile for a long time.
- Ayurveda considers chamomile a”cooling” herb which is ideal for alleviating inflamed and irritated skin.
- TCM also uses chamomile because of its ability to balance heat and soothe skin conditions like eczema.
- The Medieval European Era
- In this time period, chamomile was being used in ointments and balms to help heal wounds and burns.
- Today
- Even in now, Chamomile has lasted all these years and is still being used in skincare products and becoming a popular tea for its mainly health benefits, one of which it’s calming effects
Active Compounds in Chamomile
Now that you got a quick history lesson, let’s explore these active compounds that make chamomile an excellent choice for your skin health, especially for those dealing with eczema and topical steroid withdrawal.
Bisabolol is a naturally occurring compound that is known for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and skin-soothing properties.
It helps reduce redness and irritation which makes it a great tool in the fight against inflamed and sensitive skin.
Flavonoids are antioxidants that are found in chamomile. Flavonoids can help maintain healthy skin cells and support the overall healing process of eczema-affected skin because it protects your cells from oxidative stress.
Apigenin is a compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It works in soothing irritated skin. It also can help enhance your skin’s natural skin barrier making sure it’s protecting you against external irritants.
Azulene is what gives chamomile it’s blue color and is beneficial for soothing inflamed skin. It can help decrease the swelling and discomfort comes with eczema.
Now that you now the healing properties and benefits of chamomile for eczema, let’s dive deeper into how this can benefit eczema and topical steroid withdrawal.
How Does Chamomile Help My Skin?
Let’s break down the special healing powers of chamomile for our skin.
Anti-inflammatory effects
As we know, chamomile is known for it’s anti-inflammatory properties.
So when applied to red, irritated and itchy skin, it will help soothe and calm those pesky rashes.
By reducing inflammation externally, chamomile can help some of those uncomfortable symptoms of eczema and bring relief to your skin.
Antioxidant
Chamomile is also antioxidant. Free radicals can cause you to flare up and chamomile antioxidants can help neutralize them and fight against oxidative damage.
This will give your skin the opportunity to repair and regenerate more effectively.
Antimicrobial
Chamomile is also antimicrobial. Because eczema can lead to tiny cracks, open wounds and breaks in the skin, it can lead to infections.
This is where chamomile can help you avoid skin infections and protecting your skin.
Moisturizing Capabilities
On top of all these great benefits, chamomile is also a great natural moisturizer.
We all know that eczema and TSW comes with dry, flaky skin, and our skin struggles to hold moisture.
Chamomile can help your skin lock in moisture creating a protective barrier that will help hydrate the affected area. This will also help reduce future flare ups.
Relaxation
Last, but not least chamomile can have a calming and relax effect on your mind.
Since we know that stress is a known trigger for eczema, bring more peace and calm into our lives can help decrease flare-ups.
A little aromatherapy and some deep breaths can go a long way in your overall protocol plan.
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How to Use Chamomile for Eczema and Topical Steroid Withdrawal
Now that you know the benefits of chamomile for eczema, you must be eager to incorporate it into your journey.
So let me share with you the different ways it can be used.
1. Chamomile Herbal Teas
Wait, I can use chamomile tea on my skin?! Yes!
Chamomile tea isn’t just for sipping. Here’s how you can use it for your skin but remember to always patch test!
- Brew a cup of chamomile tea and let it cool down to room temperature.
- Soak a clean cloth, towel or cotton balls in the tea.
- Apply it gently to the affected areas to bring relief.
You can also pour the tea into a spray bottle and spritz it onto your skin throughout the day for relief from itching and inflammation.
2. Chamomile Essential Oils
- Always dilute the essential oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil or jojoba oil.
- A good rule of thumb is to mix 1-2 drops of chamomile essential oil with a tablespoon of the carrier oil.
- Apply this blend to the affected areas, massaging it gently into the skin.
Adding a few drops of chamomile essential oil to your dead sea salt bath can bring relief to your whole body.
Again, make sure to mix it with a carrier oil first to avoid skin irritation and reactions.
3. Chamomile Bath
A soothing chamomile bath can do amazing things for your skin and mind.
Let’s prepare one:
- Fill your bathtub with warm water (avoid hot water) and use a bath filter
- Add one cup of dried german chamomile flowers or a few organic chamomile tea bags to the bath
- Add a cup of dead sea salt (or epsom salt) for extra minerals and relaxation.
- Soak in the bath for 15-20 minutes, letting the calming properties of chamomile envelop your skin.
Upon exiting the bath, make sure to moisturize your skin with a great lotion made with natural ingredients.
4. Chamomile Creams and Ointments
For those who like ready-made creams, chamomile-infused creams and ointments can be found at most natural health stores. Here’s what to look out for before buying:
- Look for products that list chamomile (Matricaria recutita or Chamaemelum nobile) as one of the main ingredients.
- Always chose natural products and organic products to avoid harsh chemicals that could irritate your skin.
- Apply a small amount to the affected areas while you work on healing the inside of your body.
Always patch-test any new creams on a small skin area that is clean to test for any reactions.
You may not have the capacity to make your own salve or balms when your eczema is flared up.
So let me suggest you these 5 best products:
Shoosha Organic Eczema Healing Balm for babies is key ingredients are colloidal oatmeal, chamomile, and calendula to soothe and protect sensitive skin affected by eczema.
Free from synthetic fragrances, pesticides, and preservatives, this balm provides gentle, natural care for inflamed and dry skin.
It is safe to use even on the most delicate problem areas, like skin folds.
The balm is USDA-certified organic, food safe and is designed to relieve eczema symptoms while moisturizing and nurturing the skin.
Discount Code: everythingeczema15
The ATTITUDE Sensitive Skin Soothing Chamomile Cream is a hypoallergenic and fragrance-free lotion designed to calm and hydrate sensitive skin.
Enriched with chamomile extract, this product aims to reduce skin irritation while being gentle enough for daily use.
The cream is formulated without harsh chemicals, making it suitable for sensitive skin conditions like eczema.
It’s dermatologically tested, vegan, and cruelty-free.
The lotion is ideal for those seeking natural, plant-based skincare solutions.
The Mamonde Blue Chamomile Cream is designed for sensitive and troubled skin, providing soothing care and hydration.
Infused with blue chamomile extract, this cream aims to calm irritation and redness while supporting the skin’s natural moisture barrier.
It is lightweight and suitable for daily use, helping to balance and comfort sensitive skin types without causing further irritation.
Aura Cacia Chamomile Oil, Tranquil
Aura Cacia Tranquil Chamomile Essential Oil is a versatile, pure chamomile oil that provides calming and soothing properties.
It is ideal for aromatherapy, skin care, and personal care applications.
Known for its relaxing scent, this oil can be used in diffusers, baths, and massage blends to promote tranquility and peace.
The oil is made from sustainably sourced chamomile flowers and is free from synthetic ingredients, ensuring a natural and pure product.
Weleda Skin Food Original Ultra-Rich Body Cream
Weleda Skin Food Original Ultra-Rich Cream is a nourishing and hydrating moisturizer designed for dry and rough skin.
Made with plant extracts such as chamomile and calendula, this cream provides intensive care, leaving the skin smooth and soft.
It is free from synthetic preservatives, fragrances, and colorants, making it ideal for sensitive skin.
The ultra-rich formula is suitable for areas that need extra moisture, like hands, elbows, and feet.
All these creams are also excellent for other inflammatory skin conditions like psoriasis, rosacea and more.
Safety and Potential Side Effects
The common approach to dealing with atopic eczema is to prescribe a hydrocortisone cream.
Due to the prescribed and overuse of steroid creams by the Medical Community, Eczema and TSW warriors are now warning the eczema community of the dangers of long-term use of steroids.
I hope through the TSW movement there will be a scientific study done on the long term use of topical steroid and it’s associated symptoms.
Chamomile is an amazing natural remedy, but like any other treatment, it’s important to be aware of its potential side effects and how to use it safely.
Understanding Potential Allergic Reactions
Let’s discuss allergies first.
Chamomile belongs to the Asteraceae family, which includes ragweed, marigolds, and daisies.
If you have known allergies to this family of plants, be cautious with chamomile.
An allergy to chamomile can manifest as skin irritation, redness, or even a rash—essentially the opposite of what we want!
To be extra safe:
- Apply a small amount of chamomile to a clean patch of skin and wait 24-48 hours to see if there’s any reaction.
- If your skin looks good, calm and happy, you’re good to go!
- If you’re new to using chamomile, try diluted products to start, like chamomile-infused oil mixed with a carrier oil or chamomile infused balms, creams, lotions.
Pre-existing Medical Conditions
Chamomile is a natural ingredient and powerful medicine and because of that, it can interact with certain medications.
It has mild blood-thinning properties so if you’re on blood-thinning medication, you’ll want to consult your healthcare provider before using any chamomile products.
Other medications to be cautious with include:
- Sedatives – chamomile has calming effects that might increase the effects of sedative medications
- Anti-inflammatory drugs – There can be interactions anti-inflammatory medications so always double check with your doctor.
Conclusion
Chamomile for eczema can be a fantastic natural herb in your fight against eczema and topical steroid withdrawal but always remember to listen to your skin and body.
Chamomile alone won’t heal your skin in the long run.
You need to combine that with a treatment or protocol that will help your body heal from the inside out.
Nutrition also plays an important role on the healing journey.
Depending on your situation, your skin may not be healing as fast due to digestion, adrenals, sluggish liver or even a weak immune system.
Maybe a combination of all of them.
But when you work on your skin from the inside and on the outside, you will be able to heal at a much faster pace.
If you are sick of your current skin health situation and looking for guidance and coaching, book your FREE Discovery Call Below to see if you are the right fit for the XZMA Coaching Program.