Ever since Georgie turned 2, he’s been suffering from atopic dermatitis otherwise known as eczema. His condition, which includes red patches, itching and scaly skin would take a turn for the worse during the summer months. Excessive bathing and swimming pools would dry his skin causing it to lose moisture. I tried numerous products, both organic and non, with vague results. Nothing seemed to work and rid him from excessive scratching until someone mentioned Aloe Vera. If you use creams or oils based on aloe, great! But what I cannot recommend enough is the actual plant and the gel you find within the leaves. A good friend gave me an Aloe Vera plant ages ago, when we were still living in the flat sans baby. When we moved, I took it with me and planted it in our garden. Little did I know that this little plant, which by the way requires minimal maintenance and knowledge to grow, would become a life-saver.
There is no test to diagnose the exact reason behind eczema but it is believed to be inherited from parents who suffer with hayfever, asthma or other allergies. Eczema itself is not an allergy. However, allergies can trigger eczema and so can pollen, dust, harsh soaps and detergents, some foods especially acidic ones and dairy products and even emotional stress. We are yet to determine the cause of Georgie’s eczema however I have noticed a flare-up whenever I switch laundry detergents and skip regular moisturising.
So back to the amazing natural skin remedy that is the aloe vera plant. There are a number of types available but the one in the photo is what I use on Georgie and myself whenever I feel my skin is dry, burnt or in need of something. Cut a leaf and slice it down the middle or side. Scoop out the gel and generously apply. Whenever Georgie is at the beginning of a flare-up stage, I have noticed that the gel will work miracles overnight. No exaggeration.
Another miracle-worker is coconut oil. I have been using it on my hair and oily skin for months and I absolutely swear by it. It seems to be doing a fantastic job on clearing up Georgie’s eczema too. I add a teaspoon of coconut oil to his bath to maintain moisture and also carry a small jar with me wherever I go (easier to do so with coconut oil rather than a fresh leaf of aloe) in case Georgie has the urge to scratch or if I notice his skin is dry. You should be able to find it at all major supermarkets and health food stores.
Eczema is a nasty condition that can be treated with medication such as antihistamines and cortisone, which was exactly what a dermatologist suggested we try when Georgie’s arms were once covered in red patches and I was at my wit’s end. But I have found that there is no need to go to such extremes especially when mother nature has already figured it out. Most times, she has the answers.
