Itching refers to an external skin sensation, which mostly occurs at the edge between the dermis and epidermis. Although there are more chemicals responsible for this condition, it is believed that histamine is the common culprit of this condition. There are many ordinary causes of acute itching such as allergies, pregnancy, and skin problems. Irrespective of the cause, itching is an unpleasant sensation that needs to be treated.Instead of treating the condition with medications, you can first try to eliminate it with the help of herbal remedies if itching has not worsened due to acute or chronic ailment. Here are some effective herbal remedies to try for!
10 Effective Herbal Remedies For Itching
Aloe Vera
It is a known fact that the leaves of aloe vera plant contain gel that is believed to be rich in therapeutic properties for treating several skin problems. One of these problems is itching. Often present in creams and lotions, the gel has the power to treat dry skin and itching due to its moisturizing properties. That is why it is a recommended remedy for relieving the symptom of itching triggered by eczema or psoriasis. Experts suggest using an aloe cream thrice a day for treating the condition.
German Chamomile
This herb is mostly used in preparing herbal teas because of its varied medical properties. It is rich in antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties due to which it can treat skin as well as digestive ailments. This is why German chamomile is included in skin creams for dealing with conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. To obtain relief from itchy skin conditions, the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) suggests applying a skin cream that contains 3% to 10% crude content of this herb.
Warning: Before using this herb, do speak with your dermatologist to ensure that it will not worsen your skin condition.
St. John’s Wort
This herb is famous for treating depression, but it is also capable of fighting against viruses as well as bacteria. In addition, the herb is also rich in anti-inflammatory properties, which help in soothing skin inflammation as well as irritation. As a result, St. John’s Wort is used topically for treating skin infections, wounds, and eczema. For dealing with itching, UMMC recommends using an oil-based preparation of this herb on the skin.
Note: You will have to first ask your health care professional before applying this supplemental cream for ensuring that it will not accelerate skin irritation.
Witch Hazel
This is a small bush native to North America; whose twigs, bark, and leaves contain medical properties. Drugs.com says that the herb is rich in astringent properties that aid in tightening the skin proteins. Skin ailments such as eczema marked by excessive itching may be treated by using this herb, as it can trigger anti-itching and drying effects.
Warning: Not much research is done on this herb, says Drugs.com. Therefore, you need to discuss about it with your doctor before using it to ensure that it is safe to use.
Fresh Basil
This is a common herbal remedy for treating skin itching. Applying basil leaves to the skin aids in reducing itching as well as inflammation triggered due to several conditions, including insect bites. Experts say that basil is rich in antibacterial and antiseptic properties, which can heal a variety of skin infections. Further, the herb also acts as an analgesic for eliminating itchiness as well as pain triggered by several skin conditions. You can use basil in two ways for reducing itchiness: Cut the leaves and apply them directly to the skin or brew the herb and sprinkle the tea over the itchy portion.
Tea Tree Oil
According to the International Aromatherapy and Herb Association, this oil is highly effective in healing dermatitis, dry skin, and fungal infections. Chemically, tea tree oil has moisturizing properties for healing dry skin and itching. Further, it also has cleansing properties for preventing infections. You can try pouring 10 drops of this oil in your filled bath tub for experiencing relief from irritated skin and itching.
Note: It is necessary to dilute the tea tree oil, as it is quite strong in nature.
Neem
This one is among the famous Indian herbs, which is known to relieve erratic red spots due to acne and itchy winter skin. Neem is rich in antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial properties due to which it can help defend an individual from itchy skin infections. Further, it has many naturally occurring steroidal compounds due to which it can also trigger an anti-inflammatory effect. Experts recommend mixing neem oil to a scent-free lotion and applying it to itchy areas twice a day.
Chaparral
This is an anti-inflammatory herb that has proven its effectiveness in relieving itching due to injuries, scabies, eczema, and dandruff. Chaparral is rich in antimicrobial properties due to which it prevents the onset of secondary infection that may be triggered by persistent scratching. Experts recommend applying fresh leaves or its oil to obtain relief from itching and dry skin associated with dandruff.
Chickweed
This is one of the famous herbal remedies for skin inflammations and itchy skin caused by many medical conditions, conveys the ‘Backyard Medicine’ book. It has been found that the herb possesses steroidal saponins that play a big role in alleviating skin inflammation as well as irritation. That is why herbalists recommend the herb for treating psoriasis, allergies, and eczema. A suggested remedy for relieving itching and soothing the skin is to mix the herb and vinegar in bathwater.
Calendula
This is one of the famous herbal remedies for treating discomfort and itching. The herb has been in use since ancient days for alleviating inflammation as well as calming down the irritated skin, says Phyllis A. Balch who is an experienced nutritional consultant and a researcher. When used in topical form, the herb is believed to trigger antiviral and antibacterial effects. However, more medical research is required to confirm the efficacy of this herb in treating skin disorders.
Note: Before you use any of these herbal remedies, it is essential to speak with your doctor about the dosage and possible mild effects.
