The Herbalist’s Guide To Eczema

You should pay attention to herbs.

Herbs can bust itches, heal your skin and repair your immune system even better than chemicals. And without side effects.

They are powerful little plants that can cure many different types of diseases, not to exclude eczema.

Herbs are slow and natural but they cure via the root cause, drugs are fast and magical but they temporarily mask the symptoms away.

Here’s a guide to improving your eczema using herbs.

How To Use This Guide

I’ve compiled a list of herbs that are helpful to eczema, but different herbs are for different aspects e.g. one could protect you against sun damage and another one will reduce inflammation.

This guide will give you all of the (known) essential herbs for eczema, and at the end with more information as well as 3 suggested combinations of skin pastes and herbal juice, here goes the list:

1. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera (Aloe vera) is commonly used via its juice, as you can see the gel-like substance inside the leaves.

Helps with: acne, skin beauty, burns, cuts, insect bites, sunburns, wrinkles as well as constipation if ingested.

Aloe vera is highly used for its soothing properties, there’s even a research that proves it is better than 1% silver sulphadiazine cream for treating second degree burns.

2. Basil

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is commonly used for air freshening and its taste but it isn’t just used for its aroma from the leaves and oil, there are other uses.

Helps with: aromatherapy (basil comes from the mint family), facial care, repelling insects, insect bites, memory/focus and warts.

In ayurvedic medicine, basil is used for: colds, headaches, stomach disorders, inflammation, heart disease, various forms of poisoning, and malaria.

3. Burdock

Burdock (Arctium lappa) has been an important ancient herb used for cleaning the liver and building the blood. If taken internally, it could get you sweaty and urinating. Think of burdock as a toxic elimination herb.

Helps with: acne, diabetes, eczema, pregnancy, psoriasis and it has anti-cancer properties.

The roots, seeds and leaves are all used.

4. Calendula

The calendula (Calendula officinalis) isn’t just a pretty flower, its flower and oil has great skin healing powers and antifungal properties.

Helps with: acne, skin beauty, cuts, oral care (sore/infected gums), vision and insect bites.

One of the best eczema treatment creams derive from this herb called Calendulis cream.

5. Cat’s Claw

The cat’s claw (Uncaria tomentosa) is a common herb found in South America, it is not a herb that directly tackles with eczema, but it is extremely helpful with arthritis and the immune system (this is critical for eczema health).

Helps with: ulcers, immune system, lupus and arthritis.

The bark is used, the essential nutrients can be absorbed by the tongue but that will leach its benefits, therefore it is better to gulp down with water to ensure the nutrients successfully get to the stomach.

6. Chamomile

The chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is a part of the sunflower family, apart from this fact, it is one of the core herbs in herbal medicine as it has numerous of benefits on the human body.

Helps with: anxiety, aromatherapy, burns, cuts, yeast, cramps, nausea, oral care, depression, digestion, ear, eczema, skin care, IBS, sleep issues, stress and sunburns.

It is often used via its flowers and oils which can be used for tea.

Allergies will occur to the ragweed family, and this herb thins the blood.

7. Chickweed

Chickweed (Stellaria media) is best known for its anti-inflammatory properties for the skin. Also, a traditional remedy for weight loss if being made into tea.

Helps with: constipation, weight loss, hemorrhoids, insect bites, psoriasis, eczema and skin care (cuts, dryness, burns…etc.).

The whole herb is used.

8. Cinnamon

Cinnamon (Cinnamomum) is a core herb with multiple benefits, commonly used for blood glucose control (for diabetes), it has antibacterial properties and it aids digestion.

Helps with: air freshening, aromatherapy, athlete’s foot, yeast, colds, diabetes, digestion, flu, IBS, repelling insects and nausea.

It is normally used via its bark (dried) and the oil.

Avoid high consumption.

9. Cleavers

Cleavers (Galium aparine) have a long history on flushing toxins out from the body and purifying the blood, it is a diuretic.

Helps with: eczema, hair, hypertension, kidney, psoriasis and skin care.

The dried aerial parts are used and the juice.

10. Comfrey

Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) is one of the best healing herbs of all times, it has a long history of usage.

Helps with: bruises, cuts, eczema, ulcers, skin care, coughs, sore throat and sunburns.

Roots and leaves are used.

Not recommended for overconsumption (multiple times your body weight) that can give you liver damage (internal use).

11. Dong Quai 

Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis) is a common herb used in traditional Chinese medicine, it has been mainly used for women, but also helps with the flushing out of toxins from the immune system and the liver.

Helps with: amenorrhea, sexual appetite, bruises, cancer prevention, dysmenorrhea, regulation of female hormones, immune system, liver, menopause, menorrhagia, back pain and PMS.

The root is used.

Not for use during pregnancy.

12. Narrow-leaf Coneflower

Narrow-leaf coneflower (Echinacea angustifolia) has several similar variants, but they all provide the essential nutrients. It is most effective if taken before a cold or other infection symptoms.

Helps with: yeast, colds, ear, immune system, insect bites, sinus and sore throats. It has anti-inflammatory effects (research).

It’s more often used for the roots because they are the strongest, stems and flowers are weaker.

Do not use if you are allergic to ragweed.

13. Elderberry 

The elderberry (Sambucus nigra) for its leaves has long been used for bruises, chilblains and various skin irritations. The flowers are used for bronchitis, colds and eye irritations.

Helps with: bronchitis, colds, congestion, coughs, eyes, flu, sinus, constipation, diarrhea, rheumatism and sore throats.

The leaves, flowers and berries can be used.

The root and bark will cause vomiting.

14. Ginseng

Ginseng (Panax ginseng) is one of the most valued herbs in traditional Chinese medicine, it has various benefits.

Helps with: alcoholism, fatigue, immune system, libido, memory/focus and stress.

Only the root is used.

There may be adverse effects if used during pregnancy or high blood pressure.

15. Ginger

The ginger (Zingiber officinale) is one magical herb. It is extremely valued in traditional Chinese medicine, as it has numerous of benefits.

Helps with: amenorrhea, aromatherapy, arthritis, bruises, cardiovascular issues, cholesterol, blood circulation, colds, cramps, digestion, dysmenorrhea, fibromyalgia, flu, IBS, lupus and nausea.

In TCM, it is commonly used for colds and its toxic flushing powers. Here’s a research on the usefulness of ginger and turmeric.

Only the root is used.

It’s a blood thinner. Avoid during pregnancy.

16. Heartsease

Heartsease (Viola tricolor) is one of the several variants of the violet (Viola spp), it isn’t just a pretty flower – also used for medicine.

Helps with: epilepsy, asthma, skin diseases and eczema. And traditionally for respiratory problems e.g. bronchitis, asthma, and cold symptoms. It’s also a diuretic.

The flowers and the leaves are used.

17. Licorice

Licorice (Glycyrrhia glabra) acts like the body’s natural corticosteroids, similar to hydrocortisone, making it a very effective anti-inflammatory substance.

Helps with: anxiety, stress, bronchitis, yeast, colds, congestion, fatigue, IBS, psoriasis, sore throats and helps stop smoking.

Only the root is used.

It is not recommended to use licorice for a long period of time, because it promotes hypertension, kidney problems, diabetes and heart problems.

18. Milk Thistle

Milk thistle (Silybum marianum L.) is best known for its healing powers for the liver. This herb helps regenerate liver cells and protects it against from toxic damages and viruses.

Helps with: addiction, alcoholism and the liver.

Its ripe seeds are commonly used.

There have been reported side effects of diarrhea.

19. Myrrh

Myrrh (Commiphora myrrha) has long been used as a cleansing agent due to its effective antifungal and antiseptic properties.

Helps with: aromatherapy, athlete’s foot, yeast, colds, cuts, oral care, hemorrhoids and sore throats.

The resin (the sticky substance) is used.

Not recommended for internal use during pregnancy, overuse can cause nausea or vomiting.

20. Oregon Grape

The Oregon grape (Mahonia aquifolium) is proven to be anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antifungal.

Helps with: detoxification, diarrhea, parasites, psoriasis (slows down skin production), sinus, skin irritations and sore throats. Can be used as a laxative.

The root is used.

Avoid use if pregnant, has gastrointestinal irritation/inflammation. Limit use to a maximum of 7 consecutive days for adults and 3 for children.

21. Parsley

Parsley (Petroselinum crispum) isn’t just used for its taste and smell, in fact, it is rich in nutrients and has great medical properties.

Helps with: digestion, gout, halitosis (bad breath) and the kidney.

Also, parsley has the ability to inhibit histamines in the body, meaning it can decrease the symptoms of allergies and inflammatory responses like eczema flare-ups.

Roots, leaves and seeds are all used.

Avoid concentrated doses for people with kidney problems or during pregnancy.

22. Purslane

Purslane (Portulaca oleracea) isn’t normally classified as a herb but more of a weed, I included this plant in here anyway because it is a very powerful plant with characteristics extremely helpful for eczema sufferers.

This plant has the highest level of omega-3 essential fatty acids (helpful against inflammation) amongst all land-based vegetables and it is rich in vitamin E, making it a great skin booster.

Helps with: insect bites, skin care, diarrhea, hemorrhoids, intestinal bleeding and skin irritations.

The stems, leaves, flower buds can all be used.

23. Red Clover

Red clover (Trifolium pratense) is rich in isoflavones (estrogen-like substances) commonly used by women.

Helps with: bronchitis, cancer prevention, regulating female hormones, menopause, osteoporosis, chronic skin conditions and blood purification.

Its flowering tops are used.

Consume only in slight amounts during pregnancy.

24. Slippery Elm 

Slippery elm (Ulmus fulva) is one of the best herbs for the easing and reducing of pain and inflammation. Its slippery fibre is very soothing, both internally and externally.

Helps with: bladder infection, burns, cuts, diarrhea, ulcers, sore throats and skin care.

The inner bark is used.

25. Sophora Root

The sophora root (Sophora flavescens) has multiple variants; it’s called the Ku Shen in traditional Chinese medicine, it’s very commonly used.

Helps with: viral hepatitis, enteritis, cancer prevention, viral myocarditis, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, eczema, psoriasis and skin care.

The root is used.

26. Stinging Nettle

The stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) is a very powerful herb and it has been used for a long time. Also, it’s highly packed with multiple essential nutrients.

Helps with: allergies, alopecia (hair loss), amenorrhea, arthritis, asthma, bed wetting, regulating female hormones, fibromyalgia, kidney problems, libido, menorrhagia, osteoporosis, PMS and prostate issues.

Due to its natural anti-histamine properties, it is great for abnormal inflammatory responses including eczema flare-ups.

The leaves and stems, roots also but uncommon.

Some people may get allergic to the sting, but ironically, its juice can alleviate the rash.

27. St. John’s Wort

St. John‘s wort (Hypericum perforatum) is commonly used for its antidepressant abilities, but it is also effective against pains and skin irritations.

Helps with: anxiety, aromatherapy, arthritis, bed wetting, burns, congestion, depression, fibromyalgia, flu, cold sores, lupus, back pain, PMS and skin care.

Its herb tops and flowers are used, especially in oil form.

28. Turmeric

Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) is under the ginger family but shouldn’t be confused with ginger itself. Turmeric is one of the most valued herbs, it has strong anti-inflammatory powers, as well as antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.

Helps with: arthritis, cancer prevention, yeast, cardiovascular issues, cuts, oral care, eyes, lupus, pain, psoriasis and helps stop smoking.

Additionally, turmeric helps with weight loss.

Used via its rhizome (rootstalks).

Consume small amounts if you have hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

29. Witch Hazel

Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) is commonly used for its good anti-inflammatory properties. It is also a natural acne fighter, good news for facial care. This herb is critical in skin care formulas.

Helps with: acne, burns, cuts, eczema, eyes, hermorrhoids, insect bites, psoriasis, skin care, sunburns and varicose veins (enlarged veins).

Used via its bark and leaves.

This herb is usually topically used on the skin. If taken internally, only in moderate amounts or else you may get an upset stomach.

30. Yellow Dock

Yellow dock (Rumex crispus) is known for its laxative abilities but it’s also traditionally used for skin irritations.

Helps with: constipation and skin irritations.

Its root is used.

Avoid high consumption at all times, or combination with other herbal laxatives at the same.

31. Gotu Kola

Gotu kola (Centella asiatica (L.)) is best known for its blood vessel strengthening properties. It is also a diuretic. Also, it stimulates collagen synthesis which is good news for skin rejuvenation.

Helps with: burns, cellulite, cuts, eczema and memory/focus.

Used via its leaves.

Large doses may cause nausea.

32. Birch

Birch (Betula alba) is a common herb with various benefits including: being a natural pain reliever, having antibacterial and anti-inflammatory powers. And it’s a diuretic.

Helps with: cancer prevention, eczema, skin irritations, kidney issues and alleviating pain.

Used vita its bark and leaves.

Not for people with blood thinning medications, who are pregnant or nursing. The herb as a whole can be used without problems, however its oil should only be used in dilution.

33. Sarsaparilla

Sarsaparilla (Smilax sarsaparilla) has a pleasant smell. Also, it has phytochemicals that soothe skin irritations, by disabling toxins in the blood.

Helps with: gout, psoriasis, autoimmune disorders and arthritis.

The root is used.

Avoid overconsumption for people with kidney problems or diabetes.

Practical Herbal Mixtures

Here is a list of herbs that could be used for a topical paste, and a drink that an eczema sufferer would benefit from.

It is not realistic to use all of them in one go, because skin pastes are usually combined from only several ingredients. And tea made of so many different herbs will taste bitter (better call it herbal juice), but it’s the fastest and most direct way for recovery.

Topical Paste

• Aloe Vera
• Basil
• Calendula
• Chamomile
• Chickweed
• Cleavers
• Comfrey
• Narrow-leaf Coneflower
• Elderberry Leaves
• Heartsease
• Licorice
• Myrrh
• Oregon Grape
• Purslane
• Red Clover
• Slippery Elm
• Stinging Nettle
• St. John’s Wort
• Turmeric
• Witch Hazel
• Yellow Dock
• Gotu Kola
• Birch

Herbal Juice

• Basil
• Burdock
• Calendula
• Cat’s Claw
• Chamomile
• Cinnamon
• Cleavers
• Comfrey
• Dong Quai
• Narrow-leaf Coneflower
• Ginseng
• Ginger
• Licorice
• Milk Thistle
• Oregon Grape
• Parsley
• Purslane
• Stinging Nettle
• Turmeric
• Witch Hazel
• Yellow Dock
• Gotu Kola
• Sarsaparilla

Notes

• To absorb the most nutrients from the cat’s claw, it is recommended to release its acids inside the stomach rather than on the tongue. So, gulp down with water.
• Avoid if allergic to ragweed: chamomile and narrow-leaf coneflower.
• Elderberry roots and barks cause vomiting.
• Oregon grape: avoid use if pregnant, has gastrointestinal irritation/inflammation. Limit use to a maximum of 7 consecutive days for adults and 3 for children.
• Parsley: avoid concentrated doses for people with kidney problems or during pregnancy.
• Yellow dock: do not combine with other herbal laxatives.
• Blood thinning: chamomile, ginger and birch.
• Avoid high consumption: comfrey, licorice, witch hazel (internal use), yellow dock and gotu kola.
• Avoid during pregnancy: cinnamon , dong quai, ginger, myrrh, Oregon grape, red clover (slight amounts only) and birch (including during nursing).
• Avoid if hypertension: ginseng and licorice.
• Avoid if hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar): turmeric.
• Avoid if kidney problems: licorice and sarsaparilla.
• Avoid if diabetes: licorice and sarsaparilla.

To be realistic, you’re not going to try all of the herbs from the entire list, I suggest reading the descriptions and then combine yourself your very own herbal juice and skin paste. Here are 3 combos I’ve made for you, feel free to switch around.

Suggested Combo #1 (Bacteria-Fighter & Toxic Flusher)

Skin paste: myrrh, Oregon Grape, turmeric.

Herbal juice: burdock, ginger, milk thistle and cleavers.

Suggested Combo #2 (Skin Healer & Immune System Boost)

Skin paste: calendula, comfrey, and slippery elm.

Herbal juice: dong quai, cat’s claw, ginseng.

Suggested Combo #3 (Itch-Buster & Digestion Aid)

Skin paste: chickweed, aloe vera, witch hazel and licorice.

Herbal juice: parsley, chamomile and cinnamon.

Herbalism is about trials and errors in mixing. Don’t use all ingredients at once, use a small number. And effects don’t show up obvious and fast (call it 3 months) for herbal juice treatment, skin pastes will give you responses right away though.

Extra Herbal Resources

Traditional Chinese Medicine Wiki

Annie’s Remedy (herbal combos for eczema)

What herb is good for _____ disease? (a fantastic article that explains the number one misunderstanding between Western medicine and herbalism)

9 Reasons Why Herbs Might Not Work (I highly recommend you to read this)

To Eczema Sufferers

Eczema patients need to understand that modern medicine work fast but it’s all temporary and makes it worse for the long run and herbal medicine is slow but natural and permanent against eczema.

Starting today, don’t go to the doctors anymore, instead, go to a herbalist and get a personalized diagnosis and receive herbal treatment.

Now scroll back up and create your own personalized tincture!