Herb
Treatment Support
anti-inflammatory, vulnerary
Application
creams
Itching
Christopher Hobbs:
“Itching is usually associated with inflammation of the skin (dermatitis) due to external or internal factors. External factors include exposure to contact allergens, such as poison oak or poison ivy, bites, sunburn, fungal infection, and other irritants. Internal factors are malabsorption of nutrients, intestinal parasites such as worms, or toxemia of the blood.”
Etiologic Factors:
- Skin Conditions:
- Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): Dry, inflamed skin that itches.
- Psoriasis: Skin cells build up and form scales, often causing itchiness.
- Contact Dermatitis: Caused by an allergic reaction to substances like poison ivy, soaps, or cosmetics.
- Infections:
- Fungal Infections: Like athlete’s foot or ringworm.
- Parasitic Infections: Such as scabies or lice.
- Bacterial Infections: Like impetigo or folliculitis.
- Allergic Reactions: Reactions to food, medications, or insect stings/bites can cause itching.
- Systemic Conditions:
- Liver Disease: Jaundice or bile buildup.
- Kidney Disease: Often due to waste buildup in the blood.
- Thyroid Disorders: Hypothyroidism can cause dry, itchy skin.
- Anemia: Low iron levels may cause itchy skin.
- Environmental Factors:
- Dry air, hot showers, or harsh soaps can cause skin dryness and irritation.
When to Seek Professional Help:
- Persistent or severe itching: Lasting for more than two weeks or affecting daily life.
- Associated symptoms: Such as rashes, swelling, fever, or unusual changes in the skin (e.g., lesions or darkening).
- Infection signs: Redness, warmth, or pus in the affected area.
- Underlying medical conditions: If itching is associated with a known condition like liver disease or kidney problems.
Treatment Plan for Itching
When to Treat at Home with Herbs:
- Mild itching: If caused by dryness, mild allergic reactions, or minor skin irritations, herbal treatments can help soothe the skin.
- Aloe Vera (Aloe vera): Known for its soothing and moisturizing properties.
- Oatmeal baths: Help calm inflamed, itchy skin.
- Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) or Calendula (Calendula officinalis): Can be used topically to reduce irritation.
- Coconut oil: Hydrates and can reduce mild itching caused by dryness.
If the symptoms are mild and localized, and there’s no sign of infection or underlying condition, these remedies can be effective. However, if the itching persists or worsens, seeking medical advice is recommended.
Christopher Hobbs:
“Herbal treatment includes external soothing herbs and herbal preparations. For internal treatment, blood purifiers, lymphatic cleansers and bowel cleansers are helpful.”
Generated by ChatGPT; edited by Christopher Hobbs
Herbal Remedies for Itching
Herb
Treatment Support
Application
Herb
Treatment Support
analgesic, antiseptic
Application
salves, creams for external use
Herb
Treatment Support
analgesic, anti-inflammatory
Application
oil, tincture, creams
Related Itching conditions
Additional Ailment
Herb
Application
No additional ailments found.
The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.
