Condition Care Guide

Also known as atopic dermatitis, eczema is an allergic skin condition, common in infants, children, and young adults, that produces itchy, thickened, red areas on various parts of the body. It tends to come and go and often travels with other allergic conditions such as asthma. Dermatologists treat eczema with topical steroids. This kind of treatment is suppressive to the immune system, not curative, and strengthens the disease process. Steroids also have a weakening influence on the immune system. The following regimen is recommended: Eliminate milk and all milk products from the diet. Take 500 milligrams of black currant oil twice a day. Give children under 12 half that dose. This takes six to eight weeks to produce the desired effect. Try visualization or hypnotherapy to take advantage of the mind/body connection in allergic skin disorders. In Japan, doctors have achieved spectacular success with severe eczema by the use of hot spring therapy. Patients are required to soak each day in hot spring water (delivered to homes in large bottles) and participate in individual and group counseling. No medications are used. Try aloe vera gel and calendula lotion or cream on irritated skin.