Integrative Dermatology: Herbal and Nutritional Supplements for Atopic Dermatitis

Integrative dermatology for atopic dermatitis (eczema) combines complementary treatments with standard medical treatments. This complementary and integrative health (CIH) approach takes into account people’s physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual needs. Different practitioners might use different methods depending on the person's needs. But the focus is on combining therapies to achieve the best outcome.¹

What is integrative dermatology?

The standard approach to eczema involves treatment with prescription drugs. The primary aim of these drugs is to:²

• Manage symptoms
• Fight infection
• Lower inflammation

While this approach can be helpful, there are drawbacks. Drugs can have bothersome side effects. Depending on the drug, side effects can range from skin changes to high blood sugar to nausea and vomiting.^3-5

Some people with eczema are simply looking for more options to deal with their illness. According to National Eczema Association, more than half have used complementary and alternative therapies.⁶

What are some examples for atopic dermatitis?

Integrative dermatology is a new field that includes dermatologists and practitioners of natural medicine. Further study is needed to find out how these approaches can be used with standard treatment. But there are some promising findings. Examples of CIH methods that may be used for eczema include the following:⁷

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a type of ancient Chinese medicine. It involves inserting small needles into the skin at important locations. The location of the needles depends on the goal of treatment. Acupuncture is commonly used in Asian countries to treat skin conditions.⁸

Acupuncture may be effective at reduce itching. Studies suggest it may be better than standard medical therapy for overall symptom improvement in people with eczema.⁸

Ayurvedic medicine

This is a type of ancient medicine from India. It combines natural medicines like herbs with diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes. The goal of Ayurvedic medicine is to minimize eczema flares. This practice is not designed to cure the disease.⁹

Chinese herbal medicine

Chinese herbal medicine uses plants, plant extracts, and herbs to help manage eczema. Treatments can be applied directly to the skin. There are also oral forms of these plants and herbs.¹⁰

Chinese herbal medicine may be effective at lowering inflammation in people with atopic dermatitis. Studies show that it also may offer relief from symptoms such as itching and trouble sleeping. But the safety of this treatment is unclear.¹⁰

Coconut oil

Dermatologists sometimes recommend coconut oil as a way to prevent atopic dermatitis flares. This oil has antimicrobial properties that can fight pathogens such as viruses, yeast, fungi, and bacteria. Coconut oil is also an effective moisturizer for people living with the disease.¹¹

Dietary changes

There are no official dietary guidelines for treating eczema. But you might suspect that certain foods may worsen your symptoms. One way to find out is to follow an elimination diet. You remove each suspected food from your diet for a set amount of time. If symptoms increase when the food is reintroduced, that food might be a trigger.^12-14

Following a general anti-inflammatory diet might be helpful for people with eczema. This diet limits added sugars, simple carbohydrates, and ultra processed foods. Lean proteins, fresh fruits and vegetables, and leafy greens are the building blocks of an anti-inflammatory diet. Healthy oils that are low in saturated fats are also recommended. Extra virgin olive oil is has both anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.^13,14

Prebiotics and probiotics

Prebiotics and probiotics help with digestion. And they can improve how your immune system functions.^15-18

These compounds have a positive effect on the microorganisms that live inside your digestive tract. Together, these microorganisms are known as a microbiome. Prebiotics and probiotics help keep your microbiome in balance. This helps lower inflammation and prevent a buildup of toxins, which can worsen symptoms.^15-18

Some researchers are concerned about using the live organisms found in probiotics for people with eczema. Postbiotics, which do not contain live organisms, are an alternative. However, more research is needed for these.¹⁹

Who can you ask for help?

There are many integrative dermatology treatments available. They can be helpful as complementary and alternative therapies for atopic dermatitis, but the number of options can be overwhelming. Having a dermatologist you trust is key. They should be open to working with you to find the therapies that work best to ease your symptoms.