Plants are among the most versatile of all the world’s living organisms. It can be a source of food to many, it can also be used as a raw material for our clothes and shelters, and most importantly it can be used as a natural remedy for common skin disorders in children. Mothers and parents, now have one more reason why they should start and set-up a garden at home. Natural skin disorder remedy is an inexpensive and accessible alternative to topical creams, solutions and medications. These items can be grown in a flow pot or in the garden and can be used directly once needed.
Children are known to have sensitive skin compared to adults; most of them get common skin rashes, red spots, skin itch and inflamed areas. The most popular rash in children is called dermatitis; this condition is characterized by red inflammations on the skin. Dermatitis is usually caused by the skin coming in contact with irritants such as dust, soaps, detergents, fabric, clothes, rubber, and some plants. Each skin is different from the other, which means hypersensitivity reactions from different skin irritants would vary for each child. Dandruff is also one of the common causes of rashes in the scalp usually due to poor skin condition and poor hygiene. Underlying childhood diseases can also manifest rashes like psoriasis, eczema and impetigo which need to be checked by a pediatrician or dermatologist for it to be treated.
Herbal remedies for skin rashes come from various plant sources. A very helpful plant that alleviates discomfort, itchiness and redness is Aloe Vera, adding 1 or 2 teaspoons on a glass of water can help soothe skin allergies and rashes. Marigold, a musky scented flower is not only effective in adding scent to perfumes and flavor to certain dishes, the oil of this plant is also a very effective insect repellant. The leaves and barks of the Witch Hazel Plant can be used as an astringent, acne treatment and insect bites remedy; it can also soothe skin inflammations, swellings and bruises. Chickweed an edible, nutritious green vegetable commonly used in salads can also be used in treating cuts, burns and bruises; this is believed to have a soothing, cooling effect when applied over the skin. The oil of lavender, a sweet smelling flowering plant used in perfumes and cosmetics is found out to have an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory property that is effective in treating skin rashes. This plant is also used in healing acne, insect bites and burns. The Licorice plant commonly used as a flavor component in some recipes is also an effective skin rash remedy because of its anti-viral properties which can treat eczema, shingles and genital herpes. Chamomile, a flowering plant, has anti-inflammatory properties similar to corticosteroids.
Natural treatments and remedies have a lot of benefits. Aside from being inexpensive and widely available it is observed to be as equally as effective as other non-herbal medications and is found to have less adverse reactions and side effects.
