Suffering from Skin Allergy? Try These Effective Natural Remedies
Published on Mar 09, 2020
By Dr. Surya Bhagwati
Chief In- House Doctor
BAMS, DHA, DHHCM, DHBTC | 30+ Years of Experience
Skin allergies may not be life threatening, but thereâs no denying that inflamed, red, itchy skin can be extremely painful and embarrassing at times. Of course, not all skin rashes are caused by allergies, but can also be caused by illnesses like chickenpox. When skin disorders develop as a result of exposure to certain triggers like cosmetics, jewelry, fabrics, and so on, itâs most likely an allergic reaction. Such skin allergies can also develop as a result of consuming certain foods and medications. This is because your immune system overreacts to these substances, which it perceives as a threat. Eczema, hives, and contact dermatitis are the most common types of skin allergy reactions causing a variety of inflammatory skin symptoms, as well as dry skin and blisters or boils. The most effective way to manage a skin allergy is by avoiding exposure to triggers, but this may not always be possible. In such situations, natural remedies for allergies can be extremely effective and you could also try using a trusted Ayurvedic medicine for skin allergy relief.
Weâll take a closer a look at some of the best natural treatments for skin allergies that can help reduce your dependence on pharmaceutical anti-allergy medications like anti-inflammatories and antihistamines. This approach is safer and more sustainable as unlike pharmaceutical drugs, natural remedies and medications will not expose you to much risk of side effects and are rather inexpensive.
5 Natural Remedies for Skin Allergy
Oatmeal
Oatmeal is nothing more than your breakfast oats that is boiled in water or milk to make porridge. It also happens to be one of the best natural remedies for skin conditions involving inflammation. This is because of natural anti-inflammatory substances and antioxidants in oats that work to reduce skin inflammation and dryness. Linoleic oil, oleic acid, and avenanthramides present in oats reduce cytokine levels, which otherwise cause inflammation. The use of oatmeal baths and poultices to treat allergic skin reactions is also supported by research, which shows that oatmeal can also help repair and restore skin.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is one of the most popular ingredients in almost all natural products today. While its benefits are often grossly exaggerated, it really is extremely effective as a natural allergy treatment. There is ample evidence for the benefits of aloe in wound healing and fighting minor skin infections. Aloe vera is also renowned for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, which can be helpful in the management of allergic skin conditions. Additionally, aloe vera contains nutrients like vitamins B-12, A, C, and E, magnesium, calcium, zinc, and certain fatty acids, all of which may help reduce inflammation. When using aloe gel to treat a skin allergy, make sure to use a product that is 100% natural and does not contain any chemical additives and fragrances as these can exacerbate the condition.
Pudinha
Pudinha or mint has a long history of use in the Ayurvedic management of skin disorders, including allergies. The herb has a natural cooling effect because of the presence of menthol, an essential oil that is found in all mint plants. Mint leaves are also known to be rich source of flavonoids and phenols that give it potent anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and antioxidant properties. Through these natural actions, pudinha extracts can not only provide relief from a skin allergy, but can also lower the risk of skin infection. Pudinha or menthol is a common ingredient in the most effective Ayurvedic packs to fight skin allergies.
Tulsi
One of the most sacred plants from the Indian sub-continent, Tulsi or Holy Basil occupies an exalted position not just in Hindu culture, but also in the Ayurvedic tradition. It is one of the most important Ayurvedic herbal ingredients in a wide range of medications and is noted for its immune supportive role. However, the herb is rich in therapeutic compounds that give it other medicinal uses too. Studies show that tulsi possesses strong antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can lower the risk of infections, as well as skin irritation associated with allergies.Â
Neem
The neem plant is one thatâs familiar to almost everyone who has grown up in India. It is widely used as a natural remedy for chickenpox and other inflammatory skin conditions to reduce itching and avoid scratching. Thanks to its strong anti-inflammatory activity, neem extracts and medications containing the ingredient can also help to reduce skin allergy symptoms, providing quick relief. In addition to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, some evidence suggests that the herb also possesses natural antihistamine properties, making it one of the most potent natural treatments for allergic disorders.Â
Other Natural Skin Care Solutions
When it comes to managing skin allergies naturally, there are plenty of natural ingredients and Ayurvedic herbs that you can turn to. As should be evident from the remedies listed above, herbs with anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties are your best bet for allergy relief. This is why herbs like harda, sunth, amla, and guggul are also notable ingredients in the best Ayurvedic medicines for skin allergy conditions. In addition to using natural Ayurvedic products and homemade solutions for allergy relief however, you should make an effort to reduce your exposure to possible allergens. In terms of your regular skin care routine, this means ditching cosmetic products with chemical and synthetic ingredients to favour those with purely natural ingredients.Â
If you do not find any relief from your skin allergy despite following all of these recommendations, it would be a good idea to consult an Ayurvedic physician for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan as you could be suffering from a more serious underlying condition.
References:
- Lin, Tzu-Kai et al. âAnti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oils.â International journal of molecular sciences vol. 19,1 70. 27 Dec. 2017, doi:10.3390/ijms19010070
- Dawid-PaÄ, Renata. âMedicinal plants used in treatment of inflammatory skin diseases.â Postepy dermatologii i alergologii vol. 30,3 (2013): 170-7. doi:10.5114/pdia.2013.35620
- Akhavan Amjadi, Marjan et al. âThe effect of peppermint oil on symptomatic treatment of pruritus in pregnant women.â Iranian journal of pharmaceutical research : IJPR vol. 11,4 (2012): 1073-7. PMID: 24250539
- Cohen, Marc Maurice. âTulsi - Ocimum sanctum: A herb for all reasons.â Journal of Ayurved and integrative medicine vol. 5,4 (2014): 251-9. doi:10.4103/0975-9476.146554
- Biswas, Kausik, et al. âBiological Activities and Medicinal Properties of Neem (Azadirachta Indica).â CURRENT SCIENCE, vol. 82, no. 11, 10 June 2002, pp. 1336â1345., https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5303d656e4b0603ba2f4baad/t/5421dacae4b040371de43ab3/1411504842389/Neem.pdf
Dr. Surya Bhagwati
BAMS (Ayurveda), DHA (Hospital Admin), DHHCM (Health Management), DHBTC (Herbal Beauty and Cosmetology)
Dr. Surya Bhagwati is an established, well-known Ayurvedic expert with over 30 years of experience in treating and consulting in the field of Ayurveda. She is known for the timely, efficient, and patient-centred delivery of quality health care. The patients under her care receive a unique holistic treatment comprising not only medicinal treatment but also spiritual empowerment.