If you have eczema then you know how frustrating dry, itchy skin can be. There are many different eczema medications such as atopic dermatitis prescription tablets, and hydrocortisone creams to combat the symptoms of eczema. However, there are also many old-fashioned home remedies you can try as well to help combat symptoms, such as the following:

1. Aloe vera gel

Aloe vera gel comes from the clear gel contained in aloe leaves and its use dates back to nearly 5000 years ago in ancient Egyptian times. It has antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties which can help with those suffering from eczema. If you want to use aloe vera gel to treat your eczema it’s important to first wash the affected area with soap before applying the gel liberally. The gel is also sticky at first so it will need time to dry before you can go about your day.

2. Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a useful skin care tool and its use dates back to centuries ago. Studies suggest that it reduces inflammation and infection, which can help in the treatment and management of eczema symptoms. If you’re experiencing an intense flare up you can make a wet wrap with 1 cup of warm water and apply 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and wrap it around the affected area to help manage the symptoms.

3. Colloidal oatmeal baths

Did you know that people have been using oatmeal for skin care since ancient Roman times? In today’s modern age oatmeal exists in many over the counter skin care products. This is because oatmeal has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and moisture-retaining properties. Colloidal oatmeal is oatmeal that’s been finely ground or chopped and suspended in liquid. It contains nutrients such as vitamin E, ferulic acid, and avenanthramides that are all great for your skin. Colloidal oatmeal helps maintain a normal pH balance in your skin, is antiviral, reduces histamine release in mast cells, and cleanses the skin so it is great for treating eczema.

4. Coconut oil

Coconut’s have been used throughout human history and coconut oil has been used since around 4000 years ago. The oil is extracted from mature coconuts and around half of the fat content in coconut oil comes from lauric acid, a healthy form of saturated fat that’s also found in breast milk. It has hydrating, antioxidative, and anti-inflammatory properties and is known to help manage eczema symptoms.

5. Honey

Humans have been using honey for around 8000 years. The ancient Egyptians, Assyrians, Chinese, Greeks, and Romans have all used honey for its various health benefits. Honey contains mostly sugar, but also contains a mix of amino acids, vitamins, minerals, iron, and zinc. It is known to be an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial agent meaning it can help with eczema flare ups and symptoms.

6. Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil has been used since the early 1900’s with commercial use starting in the 1920. Tea tree oil is an essential oil derived from the Australian native plant Melaleuca alternifolia and is primarily known for its skin-healing properties. The main healing properties that make it great for healing itchy, dry skin are its anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antimicrobial, antibacterial, antiseptic, and antioxidant properties.