Eczema also known as atopic dermatitis is a common condition characterized by chronic itchy, inflamed skin. The rash is often red, dry, and scaly and commonly affects the front of the wrist and elbows and the back of the knees. Scratching and itching can lead to darkened and hardened areas of thickened skin.
Naturopathic treatment principles include modulating the immune system to decrease allergic hypersensitivity and inflammation and identifying and eliminating food sensitivities, such as milk, eggs, and peanuts. Roughly 81% of all cases of childhood eczema are due to these food allergies. In addition, inhibiting histamine release and allergic factors in the skin with the use of anti-inflammatory and mast-cell stabilizing nutritional supplements and herbs is an important part of the naturopathic treatment plan.