The Healing Power of Honey for Eczema + Psoriasis
If you suffer from psoriasis or eczema, you may have heard that honey can be a natural remedy for your skin condition. Honey has been used for centuries for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, and it may help soothe and heal skin conditions. In this guide, we'll explore the benefits of honey for eczema and psoriasis and how to use it effectively.
How can Honey for Eczema + Psoriasis be used as a Treatment?
Honey is typically used to add natural sweetness to a variety of foods, but it also can be used for various health and medical benefits. These include:
Sore throats
Wounds
Infections
Burns
Skin conditions
Honey has both anti-bacterial + anti-inflammatory properties, making it an ideal ingredient for the treatment of eczema + psoriasis. The anti-bacterial properties can protect against bacteria, allergens, and other irritants, which is key for eczema + psoriasis sufferers. The anti-bacterial nature of honey is thought to be because of its high glucose content and low acidity, which inhibits the growth of microorganisms. Honey can help soothe redness and itching. Honey also has wound-healing properties, so it may help heal patches caused by your skin condition. Honey can also act as a thick emollient, trapping moisture into the skin. Honey has a high viscosity which forms a barrier to the skin. This can fight infections, which those with eczema may be prone to.
Types of Honey and their benefits for Eczema + Psoriasis
There are many different types of honey, each with its own unique properties and benefits for eczema. Manuka honey, for example, is known for its high antibacterial activity and is often used to treat infected eczema. Raw honey, on the other hand, contains enzymes and nutrients that can help soothe and heal the skin. It’s important to choose high-quality honey that is free from additives and processed sugars for the best results.
The most common type of honey for treating eczema + psoriasis is Manuka honey, Manuka honey is produced in New Zealand, with bees gathering pollen from the Manuka bush. Manuka has stronger anti-bacterial properties when compared to other honey types. It can be purchased in larger supermarkets and health stores, but it is cheaper to buy on Amazon. Manuka honey is thought to be more potent as it contains a compound called dihydroxyacetone from Manuka flowers. This compound has anti-bacterial and cell-killing capabilities. The anti-bacterial strength of Manuka honey is given a UMF rating. Look for a rating of at least 10. Above 16 indicates an extremely high-quality product.
How to use Honey for Eczema or Psoriasis treatment
There are several ways to use honey for eczema or psoriasis treatment. One popular method is to apply a thin layer of raw honey directly to the affected area and leave it on for 20-30 minutes before rinsing off with warm water. Another option is to mix honey with other natural ingredients such as coconut oil or aloe vera gel to create a soothing and moisturising eczema cream.
If you can’t face the mess of using honey directly, try the following great home remedy for eczema + psoriasis. Mix 1 part beeswax, 10 parts coconut oil, and 10 parts honey. Melt the mixture whilst mixing, and then store it in a sterile jar.
It’s important to patch-test any new products before applying them to larger areas of the skin to avoid any potential allergic reactions.
Look for skincare containing Manuka Honey. Manuka honey is super moisturising so look for it to be listed as a product’s key ingredient. Products that sometimes contain manuka honey include cleansers, serums, balms, and face masks.
Take a Manuka honey supplement- The active compounds found in Manuka honey have been scientifically proven to reduce inflammation, which is a key factor in both eczema and psoriasis. By incorporating a Manuka Honey Supplement into your daily routine, you can potentially lessen the redness, swelling, and discomfort associated with these conditions.
Create your own DIY face mask- Honey is a great choice for eczema + psoriasis home remedies. Studies have shown that applying manuka honey directly to the skin can improve the symptoms of eczema. Both eczema and psoriasis cause dry skin due to a compromised skin barrier. Manuka honey acts as a natural moisturizer and humectant, enabling it to draw and retain moisture in the skin. By hydrating the affected areas, Manuka honey can help soothe dryness, reduce itchiness, and promote overall skin health.
Add Manuka honey to food. Manuka honey tastes great with fruit, yoghurt, toast, or bread. Consuming a spoonful of Manuka honey daily not only provides numerous health benefits but can also support your skin's healing process. Start with a small amount and gradually increase the dosage. You could also try mixing a teaspoon of Manuka honey with a warm cup of herbal tea or water.
Precautions and Potential Side Effects
While honey is generally considered safe for most people, there are some precautions and potential side effects to keep in mind when using it for eczema treatment. First, it’s important to note that honey should not be used on open wounds or broken skin as it can increase the risk of infection. Some people may be allergic to honey and should avoid using it altogether. Honey is a natural sugar and should be used in moderation for those with diabetes or other conditions that require sugar intake to be monitored.
More research is required to establish whether honey is beneficial for skin conditions, but there are positive indications. As when using any new product directly on your skin, carry out a patch test 48 hours before use. Some individuals may have a reaction to honey, particularly if sensitive or allergic to pollen or bees.
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