Over 30 million Americans have some form of eczema, and many of them are frustrated with treatment. Medicines and creams doctors prescribe do not always work and can sometimes make the problem worse.
However, there is a natural way to treat this common skin condition. Apple cider vinegar ( click here forInternational products ) (ACV) will help treat the itchiness and remove some of the inflammation that occurs with an eczema flare-up.
How and why apple cider vinegar works
There are many different forms of eczema, but they present in a similar manner: dry, scaly, red, and itchy skin. Those who suffer from more severe cases can experience weeping, crusting, and bleeding. When people scratch their skin (which is hard not to do when you have eczema), the skin can split and bleed. This leaves it open to infection. (source) ACV has very powerful antifungal and antibacterial properties. This keeps already weakened skin protected from bacteria and fungi that can make the problem worse. (Some forms of fungal infections look and act just like eczema.) ACV is an anti-inflammatory and soothes itchy skin. This makes it perfect for eczema, as most flare-ups come with an uncontrollable urge to itch, along with inflammation. Some sources state that ACV use will help to detoxify the body. By removing the toxins that are aggravating this skin problem, flare-ups will happen less often. This is true for cases of eczema that occur due to allergic reactions. It is also perfect for reducing the appearance of age spots!In the video below, Ahuva Gamliel, board-certified Naturopathic Doctor and licensed Acupuncture Physician, shows us how to use apple cider vinegar to treat itchy skin. She also talks about the type of ACV we should be using.
https://youtu.be/QriI7ndJvPw For those with skin that is sensitive to ACV, it is important to dilute the ACV before using it.Apple Cider Vinegar Skin Treatment for Sensitive Skin
- For those with mildly sensitive skin, mix 1 part ACV with one part water. If that is still too strong, ¼ cup ACV to 3 cups water will make a mixture that is right for you.
- Apply the mixture to the affected skin with a cotton ball, or lightly spray it with a spray bottle.
- Apply the ACV treatment twice a day for the best results.
Some other ways to use ACV to treat eczema are:
- Bath: Pour 2 cups of ACV into a warm bath and soak for 30 minutes. Repeat 3 times a week.
- Drink: Mix 1 tablespoon of ACV and 1 tablespoon of honey in a 16-ounce glass of warm water. Drink this 3 times a day 30 minutes before eating.
