The Homeopathic Treatment of Eczema Part 3

5-    Have you tried MSM for your eczema?

  • There is some evidence that the supplement MSM (usually taken for joint pain) rebuilds the lining of the gut, hence decreasing allergy sensitivity.Be sure you are not allergic to sulphur before trying this product.

6-    What topical treatments have you tried for your eczema?

  • I strongly discourage the use of corticosteroid creams. Steroid creams do suppress the itch, but they thin the skin making it more likely to crack. And over time, steroid creams may so thoroughly suppress the immune system that more serious problems result, like asthma or IBS. Besides, steroid creams do not solve the problem, they just mask the problem.

  • I strongly discourage the use of any cream or ointment that has a petroleum base, such as Vaseline. Exposure to petroleum products can actually cause eczema (just ask any car mechanic) and the ointments that rely on petroleum jelly only superficially heal it.

  • So what is safe to use?

  1. Calendula butter by First Aid Creams (available directly or on Amazon).

  2. Calendula cream by First Aid Creams (available directly or on Amazon).

  3. Calendula Ointment by Weleda (in the baby care section of your Health Food store). Do NOT use if allergic to peanut oil.

  4. Califlora calendula Cream by B&T (at your Health Food store). Do NOT use if allergic to wool; it has a lanolin base.

  5. Calendula Lotion by Boiron. Do NOT use if allergic to wool; it has a lanolin base.

  6. MSM cream (try Pure MSM cream by TriMedica at at your Health Food store). Be sure you are not allergic to sulphur before trying this product.

  7. Coconut nut is usually safe; start with a small amount.

First published 22 February 2010

Lynn Amara