Eczema makes your skin feel like it’s working against you. I know how exhausting it is to deal with the dryness, itching, and burning, especially when nothing seems to help long-term.
You might be wondering if there’s a gentler way to calm your skin. Herbs for eczema can offer relief without the harsh side effects that come with many creams.
I’ve pulled together helpful, easy-to-follow ideas you can try at home or talk to your doctor about. Want to see if something more natural might actually work for you.
What Is Eczema and Why Does It Happen
Eczema is a common skin condition that causes the skin to become inflamed, itchy, red, dry, and sometimes cracked or blistered. It’s not a single disease but rather a group of conditions that cause similar symptoms.
It can appear on the hands, arms, legs, or face, sometimes off and on, sometimes long-term. You may see redness, peeling, or tiny bumps that leak fluid. Scratching often makes it worse. Common triggers include harsh soaps, dry weather, stress, allergies, certain foods, or heat.
While the exact cause isn’t always known, it often involves genetics and immune response. Some people turn to natural options like herbs to ease swelling, dryness, and itching, without relying on strong creams.
Topical Herbs That Help Calm Eczema Symptoms
These herbs are commonly used in creams, salves, and oils to soothe irritated skin, ease redness, and calm flare-ups safely.
1. Chamomile
Chamomile is a gentle herb that eases redness, itchiness, and swelling. It’s often used in lotions for sensitive skin. You can apply chamomile tea as a compress or find it in store-bought eczema creams.
Its anti-inflammatory effects make it a go-to choice for flare-ups, especially on the face or hands. Choose German chamomile for the strongest skin benefits, and always check for possible allergies if you’re new to it.
2. Calendula
Calendula supports healing and helps reduce irritation from eczema and rashes. It’s great in ointments or homemade salves. Calendula encourages new skin growth and fights off bacteria.
That makes it helpful for patches that are cracked, flaky, or slow to heal. You can use it on its own or blended with olive or sunflower oil. Apply it as needed to soothe and support recovery during active flare-ups.
3. Licorice Root
Licorice root contains natural compounds that act like a mild steroid, helping ease itching, swelling, and redness. It’s often found in natural skin creams aimed at calming eczema.
This herb is useful during flare-ups, especially when your skin feels tight or sore. Because it’s strong, it works best in short bursts and may be blended with oils to soften its effects. Always patch-test to avoid irritation or allergies.
4. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera hydrates dry skin, cools irritation, and helps reduce mild inflammation. It’s one of the most trusted natural remedies. Use the gel straight from the leaf or buy pure aloe without additives.
It creates a barrier that helps hold in moisture while soothing heat and itch. Apply it after washing and let it absorb before using other products. It works well for red or peeling patches.
5. Tea Tree Oil (with caution)
Tea tree oil is known for fighting bacteria and reducing inflammation. Some people use it for eczema that becomes infected. However, it’s very strong. Always dilute it with a safe carrier oil like coconut or olive oil.
Even then, some people may react to it, so testing a small patch first is important. Avoid broken or very sensitive skin. Use it in small amounts for short-term relief.
6. Lavender
Lavender oil is soothing and calming for both the skin and the senses. It’s gentle enough for mild eczema patches. Many people apply it at bedtime, mixed with a carrier oil, to relax and reduce itching.
It may also help reduce scratching caused by stress or anxiety. While generally safe, always test a small spot first, and avoid using it too close to the eyes or on open cuts.
7. Witch Hazel
Witch hazel helps dry out weepy eczema and reduce redness. It comes from the bark and leaves of the witch hazel plant. Use alcohol-free versions to avoid drying your skin too much.
Dab it gently onto clean skin using a cotton pad. It’s most helpful for areas that are inflamed or leaking. While soothing, it may sting if applied to cracked or broken skin, so use it with care.
8. Comfrey
Comfrey promotes skin repair and helps reduce soreness. It’s often used in healing salves and ointments. This herb contains compounds that support new cell growth and may help strengthen skin that breaks easily.
Comfrey works well when paired with calendula or marshmallow root in a balm. Don’t apply to deep wounds or use on kids without medical advice. Use it short-term and only on intact skin.
9. Marshmallow Root
Marshmallow root is rich in mucilage, a slippery substance that coats and protects irritated skin. It can ease dryness, cracking, and tightness. When made into an oil or cream, marshmallow root soothes and hydrates.
It’s gentle enough for daily use on hands, legs, or even facial skin. You can also make a homemade infusion and apply it as a compress. It’s a great option for very dry flare-ups.
10. Yarrow
Yarrow is a lesser-known herb that helps with skin healing and has mild anti-inflammatory effects. It’s often added to herbal salves for skin problems like eczema, rashes, or cuts.
You can use it in infused oils or creams. It may also help with minor bleeding if the skin has been scratched open. Yarrow is strong, so keep the concentration low and avoid using it if you’re pregnant or nursing.
11. Neem
Neem has powerful antibacterial and anti-itch properties. It’s commonly used in Indian skincare for eczema, rashes, and itchy skin. Neem oil or neem leaf paste can help soothe patches that are red, flaky, or slow to heal.
Use neem in small amounts, as it has a strong smell and may irritate sensitive skin. Look for neem creams that are blended with calming oils like sunflower or jojoba.
12. Plantain Leaf
Plantain leaf (not the banana) helps calm skin and supports healing. It works well for eczema with broken or irritated areas. This herb contains compounds that reduce swelling and encourage repair.
Use it in a salve or mash fresh leaves into a poultice. It’s mild and often safe for kids, but always do a patch test. It also helps calm bug bites, so it’s great for summer flare-ups.
13. Gotu Kola
Gotu kola improves skin strength and supports healing in eczema-prone areas. It’s used in natural creams to rebuild damaged skin. This herb may help reduce scarring from long-term scratching.
Apply it as a cream or balm after cleansing the skin. It’s gentle but effective when used daily. Gotu kola is popular in Ayurvedic and traditional medicine for skin health and may work well alongside other herbal remedies.
14. St. John’s Wort (Topical use only)
St. John’s Wort calms irritated nerves in the skin, making it helpful for itching or burning from eczema. It’s usually applied as an infused oil or ointment, not taken internally for eczema.
Use it carefully and avoid sun exposure on treated areas, as it can increase light sensitivity. This herb may work well at night or during cooler months. Always test it on a small spot first.
15. Turmeric (topical use)
Turmeric isn’t just for cooking; it can be used on the skin, too. It helps reduce redness and supports healing. Mix turmeric powder with honey or aloe vera gel for a soothing paste.
It may stain light skin or clothing, so apply it in small amounts. Turmeric works best during flare-ups with visible inflammation and is often combined with oils or other herbs to calm discomfort fast.
Herbs You Can Take Internally for Eczema Relief
Some herbs support your skin from within by calming inflammation, helping your immune system, and lowering the chance of future flare-ups.
| Herb | How to Use | Key Benefit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turmeric | Add to food or take in capsules | Calms inflammation and may reduce flare-ups | Works best with black pepper for absorption |
| Ginger | Brew as tea or add to meals | Soothes inflammation and supports digestion | Gentle enough for daily use |
| Echinacea | Take as tea, tincture, or capsule | Supports immune balance to prevent flare-ups | Best used short-term when symptoms return |
| Oregano | Use oil capsules or make herbal tea | Fights inflammation and supports immune health | Use in small doses; very strong and concentrated |
Internal herbs are helpful, but they’re not a cure. Always check with your doctor to avoid problems with medications or conditions.
Traditional and Chinese Herbal Remedies for Eczema
These ancient herbal systems focus on treating eczema from the inside by supporting skin, immune health, and overall body balance.
Common Chinese Herbs for Eczema
Herbs like skullcap, peony root, and rehmannia are often used in blends to support skin healing. These herbs are rarely used alone. Instead, they’re combined based on your body type and symptoms.
A licensed TCM practitioner will create a formula specific to your condition. These blends may help reduce itching, redness, or long-term flare-ups by calming the immune response and improving skin function from within.
How They’re Used
Traditional Chinese herbs can be taken in several forms, including teas (decoctions), powders, capsules, or liquid extracts. Some formulas are also made into topicals like creams or oils.
These treatments are often paired with acupuncture to improve results. The exact mix and form depend on the symptoms and the person. A licensed herbalist will choose herbs and delivery methods that best support your skin and overall health.
What the Research Says
Some small clinical trials suggest that Chinese herbal formulas may help reduce eczema symptoms, including redness, dryness, and itch. However, more studies are needed to fully understand their long-term effects and safety.
These herbs should not replace medical care, especially for severe eczema. They may be a useful option when used under guidance and as part of a larger care plan that includes diet and lifestyle support.
Homemade Herbal Salves and Remedies
Herbal salves are easy to make at home and allow you to manage eczema naturally using ingredients you can trust and prepare yourself.
DIY Salve Recipe
Make your own herbal salve at home using simple ingredients to help soothe dry, itchy, or irritated eczema-prone skin.
Step 1: Choose your herbs (calendula, comfrey, marshmallow root). Pick dried herbs known for soothing and healing eczema-prone skin.
Step 2: Infuse herbs in olive oil over low heat. Simmer herbs in oil for 2–3 hours to extract their skin-soothing properties.
Step 3: Strain the oil using a fine mesh or cheesecloth. Remove all herb pieces so your final salve is smooth and clean.
Step 4: Add beeswax to the infused oil and melt together. Mix gently over low heat until the beeswax fully melts into the oil.
Step 5: Pour the mixture into a clean, dry container. Use a glass jar or tin and let the mixture cool and harden.
Step 6: Store in a cool, dark place with a label. This helps preserve the salve and reminds you of the ingredients used.
Step 7: Apply to dry or itchy skin as needed. Use clean hands and apply a thin layer to affected areas 1–2 times daily.
Tips for Making Herbal Creams or Oils
Use fresh, clean supplies to make sure your herbal products stay safe and effective.
- Choose gentle base oils like olive, coconut, or sunflower
- Always use clean, dry containers and tools
- Add vitamin E to extend shelf life naturally
- Store finished salves in a cool, dark place
- Label your jars with dates and ingredients
- Avoid adding water unless using a preservative
- Do a patch test before regular use
How Herbs Compare to Conventional Eczema Treatments
Herbs and standard treatments both aim to relieve itching, redness, and swelling, but they work in different ways. Conventional treatments like steroid creams often act faster but can cause side effects with long-term use.
Herbal remedies may take more time, but are usually gentler on the skin. Many people use herbs to avoid harsh chemicals or when creams stop working.
However, herbs don’t always give the same strong results, especially during severe flare-ups. For best results, some people use both herbs for daily care and medical creams only when needed. Always ask your doctor before changing your routine.
Safety Tips Before Using Herbs for Eczema
Even natural remedies can cause problems if used incorrectly, especially on broken skin or with certain health conditions.
- Always do a patch test before using any herb on your skin
- Dilute essential oils before applying to avoid irritation
- Talk to your doctor if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a medical condition
- Don’t mix herbs with prescription creams without medical approval
- Use clean tools and containers when making DIY products
- Store herbs and salves in a cool, dry place
- Stop using any product that causes burning, rash, or redness
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to feel stuck with the same creams that only offer short-term relief. Herbs for eczema might give your skin the break it’s been asking for.
You’ve seen some of the best options, both for daily care and flare-ups, and how they work. Even trying just one of these herbs could help you feel more in control of your skin again.
Start slow, stay safe, and listen to what your body needs. And if you’re looking for more ways to support your skin and well-being, don’t forget to check out my other blogs for simple, helpful tips.
