Turmeric and Eczema: Advantages, Applications, and Safeguards
Turmeric and Eczema: A Promising Yet Emerging Treatment
Turmeric, a spice known for its vibrant yellow colour and flavour, has been gaining attention in the realm of skincare, particularly for its potential benefits in treating eczema.
This popular spice is available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, tinctures, and fluid extracts. However, when it comes to eczema treatment, topical applications seem to be the most promising. Current evidence suggests that topical turmeric supplements and products may benefit skin health, particularly for eczema [1].
One intriguing development is a 100% natural herbal antimicrobial cream formulated using rare black turmeric (Curcuma caesia Roxb.) by researchers at USTM. After five years of rigorous scientific and clinical testing, this cream showed promising results in treating eczema, among other chronic skin conditions [1].
Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, is believed to play a significant role in this potential benefit. It is known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which could help control mechanisms involved in inflammation and infectious skin disorders [2].
However, it's important to note that while the research is promising, conclusive clinical evidence specifically for eczema is still limited and emerging. Turmeric mainly remains a complementary approach rather than a primary treatment [5].
When considering turmeric products for eczema, it's crucial to exercise caution. While turmeric's safety profile is generally good, with the Food and Drug Administration recognizing curcumin as a compound, topical use can occasionally cause local allergic dermatitis. Therefore, it's advisable to consult a healthcare provider before using turmeric as an alternative or complementary therapy for eczema or any condition [4].
Moreover, turmeric may interact with certain medications, such as anticoagulants, insulin, blood pressure medication, antacids, and chemotherapy drugs. These interactions can increase the risk of complications [3].
Alternative natural treatments for eczema include coconut oil, sunflower oil, colloidal oatmeal bath, diluted apple cider vinegar, aloe vera, and topical vitamin E. Topical vitamin E, for instance, has nutrient antioxidant properties and may help reduce eczema symptoms in the short term, but more research is necessary to confirm its efficacy and safety [6].
In conclusion, while turmeric shows promise for eczema treatment, mainly due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, definitive clinical guidelines and extensive trials confirming turmeric as an effective eczema treatment are still forthcoming. Users interested in turmeric products for eczema should consider well-studied formulations and consult healthcare providers to avoid adverse effects or interactions.
References: [1] USTM researchers develop 100% natural herbal antimicrobial cream for eczema treatment. (2020, August 10). Retrieved November 15, 2022, from https://www.ustm.ac.in/news/ustm-researchers-develop-100-natural-herbal-antimicrobial-cream-eczema-treatment
[2] Turmeric for Eczema: What You Need to Know. (n.d.). Retrieved November 15, 2022, from https://www.healthline.com/health/eczema/turmeric
[3] Turmeric: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Dosage, and Warning. (n.d.). Retrieved November 15, 2022, from https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1088/turmeric
[4] Turmeric: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Dosage, and Warning. (n.d.). Retrieved November 15, 2022, from https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1088/turmeric
[5] Turmeric for Eczema: What You Need to Know. (n.d.). Retrieved November 15, 2022, from https://www.healthline.com/health/eczema/turmeric
[6] Topical Vitamin E for Eczema: What You Need to Know. (n.d.). Retrieved November 15, 2022, from https://www.healthline.com/health/eczema/topical-vitamin-e
- The health-and-wellness industry offers turmeric supplements in multiple forms, such as tablets, capsules, tinctures, and fluid extracts, but topical applications seem to be the most promising for treating eczema.
- The active compound in turmeric, curcumin, is responsible for its potential benefits in skincare, particularly for entities like eczema, due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
- Therapies and treatments for eczema also include alternative options like coconut oil, sunflower oil, colloidal oatmeal bath, diluted apple cider vinegar, aloe vera, and topical vitamin E, with topical vitamin E having nutrient antioxidant properties that may help reduce eczema symptoms in the short term.
- When using turmeric products for eczema, it's essential to be aware of the possibility of local allergic dermatitis and interactions with certain medications, such as anticoagulants, insulin, blood pressure medication, antacids, and chemotherapy drugs.
- Mental-health considerations are vital when discussing treatment options for eczema, and individuals should consult healthcare providers before using turmeric or any complementary therapy for eczema.
