People can use creams, natural products, and dietary and lifestyle changes to manage or prevent eczema flares, especially in the winter, when symptoms tend to be at their worst. Natural substances, such as aloe vera gel and coconut oil, can moisturize dry, broken skin. They can also combat inflammation and harmful bacteria to reduce swelling and prevent infection. Natural remedies cannot cure eczema, but they can help manage the symptoms and prevent flares. This article looks at the best natural remedies for eczema.

1. Aloe vera gel: Aloe vera gel is derived from the leaves of the aloe plant. People have used aloe vera gel for centuries to treat a wide range of ailments. One common use is to soothe eczema.

A systematic review from 2015 looked at the effects of aloe vera on human health. The researchers reported that the gel has the following types of properties:

• antibacterial
• antimicrobial
• immune system-boosting
• wound-healing

2. Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a popular home remedy for many conditions, including skin disorders. The National Eczema Association (NEA) report that apple cider vinegar may help with the condition. However, they recommend using caution, as the vinegar’s acids can damage soft tissue.

3. Bleach in the bath

Although it may sound dangerous, research indicates that bleach in the bath can improve eczema symptoms due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. Bleach can kill the bacteria on the surface of the skin, including S. aureus, which causes staph infections. This may restore the microbiome of the skin’s surface.

4. Colloidal oatmeal

Colloidal oatmeal, also known as Avena sativa, is made from oats that have been ground and boiled to extract their skin-healing properties. A 2015 study reports that colloidal oatmeal lotion had antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, resulting in improved:

• skin dryness
• scaling
• roughness
• itch intensity

5. Coconut oil

Coconut oil contains healthful fatty acids that can add moisture to the skin, which can help people with dry skin and eczema. Also, virgin coconut oil may protect the skin by helping combat inflammation and by improving the health of the skin barrier.

6. Honey

Honey is a natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agent, and people have used it to heal wounds for centuries. Conclusions of a review confirm that honey can help heal wounds and boost immune system function, which means that it can help the body fight off infections.

7. Tea tree oil

Manufacturers derive tea tree oil from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia tree. People often use this oil to help with skin problems, including eczema. A 2013 reviewTrusted Source identifies anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and wound-healing properties in the oil. It may help relieve skin dryness and itching and help prevent infections.

8. Dietary changes

Eczema is an inflammatory condition, which means that it causes inflamed, red, sore skin. Certain foods can cause or reduce inflammation in the body, and making a few key dietary changes could help diminish eczema flares. Examples of anti-inflammatory foods include:

• fish
• leafy greens
• beans and lentils
• colorful fruits
• vegetables
• turmeric and cinnamon

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