Sunday, November 30, 2008

The Beauty of Herbs: Not Just Skin-Deep


Combinations used together to cleanse the blood and feed the skin include burdock root, Oregon grape, pau d’arco, vitamins A and E, and zinc. Because you will either make or purchase Oregon grape in a liquid form, it will be easy to apply to affected areas on the skin. Apply to a test area, such as the back of your hand, for several days each day, and watch how it works for you. You may want to apply it straight, or you can add it to your natural shampoo for eczema in the scalp. Externally, you can also add the herb calendula (from marigold flowers), known for its soothing effects on the skin. Mix it with some aloe vera, and apply as a paste to affected areas. If you do not yet know the source of your eczema, eliminate any possible causes of skin irritants, such as toxic and industrialized chemicals. Make a note if you have changed any of your soaps or laundry detergents.
Some eczema can be triggered by allergies, so make a food diary and eliminate all things that show up on your food list more than every four days. Eliminate red meat, citrus fruits, and sugar from your diet, and see if your problem clears. This will help you learn what might be triggering this condition, too. Cleanse the bowel for quicker relief of all skin ailments.

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