Herbal Treatment for Eczema & Atopic Dermatitis
Eczema affects over 15 million people in the UK. Herbal medicine takes a whole-body approach — addressing gut health, immune dysregulation, and skin barrier function to reduce flares and calm inflammation from the inside out.
Understanding Eczema
Atopic eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition driven by immune dysregulation, a compromised skin barrier, and gut microbiome imbalances. Triggers include food sensitivities, environmental allergens, stress, and dysbiosis. While topical steroids suppress symptoms, herbal medicine aims to address the underlying immune and gut dysfunction.
How Herbal Medicine Treats Eczema
Immune Modulation
Specific herbs regulate the overactive Th2 immune response that drives atopic conditions.
Gut Healing
Healing the gut lining and microbiome reduces the intestinal permeability linked to eczema.
Skin Barrier Support
Herbs rich in essential fatty acids and anti-inflammatories rebuild the compromised skin barrier.
Liver & Detox Support
Supporting hepatic clearance of inflammatory mediators reduces the systemic burden on skin.
Key Herbs Used
- Burdock Root (Arctium lappa) — Powerful blood and lymph cleanser that reduces inflammatory skin conditions from within.
- Nettle (Urtica dioica) — Natural antihistamine and anti-inflammatory that reduces itch and atopic reactivity.
- Liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) — Anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating herb that calms the overactive immune response.
- Calendula (Calendula officinalis) — Topical anti-inflammatory and wound-healing herb for external application to affected skin.
What to Expect
Root Cause Assessment
We investigate your eczema triggers — gut health, food sensitivities, stress and immune history.
Internal & Topical Formula
A dual approach: internal tincture for systemic inflammation and a topical cream or wash for symptom relief.
Elimination Guidance
Targeted advice on identifying and removing dietary triggers.
Long-term Management
A plan to reduce steroid dependence and achieve lasting remission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can herbal medicine replace steroid creams?
The goal is to reduce dependence on steroids over time as underlying causes are addressed. Always withdraw steroids gradually under medical supervision.
How long does eczema treatment take?
Acute flares may improve in 2–4 weeks. Achieving lasting remission typically takes 3–6 months.
Is it safe for children?
Yes — we have specialist paediatric herbalists experienced in treating childhood eczema.
What about food allergies?
Food sensitivity testing can be recommended alongside herbal treatment if trigger foods are suspected.
References
- Hon KL et al. (2015). A summary of published trials of herbal medicine in atopic eczema. Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 26(2), 96–101.
- Kassembaum NJ et al. (2017). Global, regional, and national incidence, prevalence, and years lived with disability for 328 diseases. The Lancet, 390, 1211–1259.
Find Lasting Relief from Eczema
Book a skin health consultation with one of our specialist herbalists today.
Book a Free Discovery CallDisclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Herbal medicine should not replace treatment recommended by a qualified medical professional. Always consult your GP before making changes to your medication or treatment plan. The practitioners at Paean Therapy are registered with the National Institute of Medical Herbalists (NIMH).
