Can aloe vera treat eczema fungal infections? How to use aloe vera for eczema and fungal infections? What is the right information to recognize eczema and differentiate between it and fungal infections? What are the benefits of aloe vera for the skin in general? And finally, what are the good recipes we recommend?
I. Knowing Eczema and Fungus
Eczema is one of the most common epidermal complications and has the most repugnant reputation because of the disfigurement of the skin.
It is a kind of allergy due to excessive immune reactions, the consequences of which can be seen and felt on the skin.
It affects all categories of people, from infants to adults to the elderly.
This pathology has several types and is divided into those that are transient and others that are chronic such as “Atopic Dermatitis”.
II. What Causes Eczema?
Like all diseases, especially skin diseases, the hereditary factor plays a very important role. If several members of a family are affected by Eczema, it may be genetically inherited.
The factor most likely to cause Dermatosis (and therefore Eczema) is allergy. This is the cause of the majority of cases of this disease. Allergens can be anything and everything: gas, metal, chemical product, food, etc.
When your body comes into contact with one of these that is not supported by your immune system, a self-defense reaction is triggered and ends with the appearance of spots on the skin, which is medically called Eczema.
For you to know which allergen is causing your dermatitis, it is imperative to consult an allergist who will perform special tests to determine exactly what it is.
III. The Symptoms of Eczema
Although there are different symptoms for each category of Eczema, there are general signs that cannot be mistaken.
The first indication of this disease is the onset of itching and tingling that one is eager to scratch. This is followed by a slight swelling characterized by blisters and redness of the skin.
For some types of dermatosis, the epidermis becomes dry and loses its hairiness.
IV. What Are Mycoses?
Fungus is a disease caused by pathogenic micro-fungi. It is an infection related to the skin and unlike eczema, it is not common and represents approximately 8 to 10% of skin pathologies.
However, it is not an almost epidermal disease, mycosis is also found in the mucous membranes and digestive tract.
The types of mycosis are:
- Mycosis of the feet (between the toes)
- Vaginal mycosis (the vulva)
- Oral mycosis (all internal parts including the tongue)
- Intestinal mycosis (part of the digestive tract)
- Nail fungus (especially the toes)
Many reasons and triggers can lead to the appearance of fungal infections caused mainly by micro-fungi.
Vaginosis, which is a form of fungus, can be caused by certain cosmetic products, especially soaps.
The use of certain antibiotics and also contraceptive pills are sometimes the cause of this complication. Finally, some doctors say that vaginal mycosis can be linked to other diseases, especially diabetes.
To recognize the symptoms of the pathology in question, look for the following signs: permanent itching at the entrance of the vagina, painful sexual intercourse, and thick white discharge.
V. Can Aloe Vera Treat Eczema Fungal Infections?
The virtues of aloe vera will never be extolled! Its composition rich in essential nutrients offers us countless benefits. And among them, we can count its capacity to relieve even cure Eczema and mycosis.
The almost notorious image of aloe gel is derived from the care it brings mainly to the skin. Since the above-mentioned pathologies are cutaneous, we have chosen this plant as the ideal healing tool for these dermal complications.
1. Aloe Vera as a Natural Remedy for Eczema and Fungus
There are very specific and determining reasons for choosing to treat eczema and fungus with aloe vera gel, which we present to you in the following subheadings.
a- Aloe Vera to Cure Eczema
Atopic eczema is specified by dry skin, hence the need to moisturize it to relieve inflammation. The choice of aloe, in this case, seems to be the most judicious, because it is composed of 98% of water. Its application on eczema skin allows deep hydration.
Certain essential elements such as enzymes and proteins contained in the pulp of aloe would play a role in regulating immunity.
This action, therefore, helps to avoid an unnecessary immune reaction and to relieve inflammations.
b- Aloe Vera Against Mycosis
Thanks to the antifungal agents contained in aloe vera, it is possible to fight against mycosis caused by fungi.
Moreover, the anti-inflammatory capacities of the magic plant contribute to the disappearance of the pains generated by the mycosis and among others erase the traces of lesions and rednesses.
It is concluded that to cure fungus or at least mitigate the damage caused by it, it is very interesting to use aloe vera, either internally or externally.
c- First Use of Aloe Vera
If you have never used aloe vera before, caution is advised. Start by applying a small amount of the plant to your skin other than your face (such as your arm or thigh).
Wait at least 24 hours to do an allergy test. If you don’t notice anything wrong, you can start using more of it to treat your eczema and fungal infections.
To avoid clogging your pores, don’t leave the gel on for hours (especially when you’re experimenting with it for the first time). Start by using it for only 5 or 10 minutes at a time, then increase the amount of time you use it.
Unfortunately, there isn’t enough scientific evidence to officially designate it as a cure for these skin conditions – but that hasn’t stopped aloe vera from becoming a top product for those who love natural products.
2. How to Use Aloe Vera for Eczema and Fungus?
People can use aloe vera co-components in the same way as other moisturizers. Apply the gel directly to the affected areas of the skin and rub it in gently.
Cleanse the skin first with unscented soap and water, then apply the aloe vera to eczema within 3 minutes to prevent the skin from drying out.
Reapply twice a day or as recommended by your doctor or herbalist.
Aloe vera will be soothing to your skin and help treat your condition as well because it contains antiseptic agents that work against fungus, bacteria, and viruses.
All you have to do is apply the gel from an aloe vera plant to the affected area several times a day.
a- Aloe Vera and Coconut Oil for Eczema and Fungus
This is an age-old remedy for skin infections and research suggests that coconut oil kills fungal cells.
Apply a mixture of coconut oil and aloe vera to the affected area three times a day and continue using it if you are prone to fungal infections.
b- Aloe Vera Mixed with Turmeric for Eczema and Fungus
Good old haldi has anti-inflammatory properties and antimicrobial benefits as well.
Apply a paste of turmeric mixed with aloe vera gel to the affected area.
c- Essential Oils and Aloe Vera for Eczema and Fungus
Tea tree oil: Tea tree oil has been used in many ancient cultures to treat fungal infections.
Add a few drops of this essential oil to a carrier oil such as coconut oil and apply it to the skin.
Oregano oil. This is a miracle remedy that has potent antifungals in the form of thymol and carvacrol.
Dilute a few drops of oregano oil in a carrier oil and apply it to the affected area three times a day.
Organic Neem Oil: Neem oil has been used in Ayurveda for centuries to treat fungal infections. Derived from the leaves and bark of the neem tree, this oil has a powerful antibiotic and anti-inflammatory action.
Add neem leaves to your bath water or make a decoction with neem leaves and apply it to the affected area. Dry the area thoroughly after use.
d- Aloe Vera with Olive Oil for Eczema and Fungus
Olive oil offers many moisturizing and soothing benefits to the skin. As an oil derived from the olive plant, it makes sense to try this natural alternative for eczema.
But for people with skin conditions such as eczema, applying the oil topically can make the situation worse.
VI. Benefits of Aloe Vera for the Skin with Eczema and Fungus Infection
The main virtues of aloe vera are all beneficial for the skin. When it is affected by certain pathologies, the most suitable remedy is aloe vera gel.
As we keep saying, these benefits are due to the multiple and effective nutrients contained in the plant.
Thanks to the vitamins and proteins contained in the gel, the skin is given a more radiant and beautiful appearance. Moreover, aloe vera fights against dry skin by moisturizing the epidermis perfectly and deeply.
Even more relevant, the remedy in question helps to get rid of skin imperfections such as acne, blackheads, stretch marks, etc.
Among other things, some applications of the gel let you heal wounds and burns and subsequently the disappearance of scars that result from them.
Potential benefits of using aloe vera for eczema are:
1. Skin Hydration
Aloe vera is rich in antioxidants, enhances antimicrobial properties, and promotes wound healing.
It can also help the skin retain moisture and improve hydration.
2. Reduce Itching from Eczema
Aloe vera can reduce inflammation, which can help relieve eczema itching, and rashes.
3. Fights Infection
Thanks to its antimicrobial, antiviral, and antiseptic properties, aloe vera also helps fight skin infections.
5. Improve the Effectiveness of Hydrocortisone
This medication is used to treat a variety of skin conditions such as insect bites, eczema, dermatitis, allergies, rashes, external female genital itching, and anal itching.
Hydrocortisone reduces the swelling, itching, and redness that can occur in these types of conditions. Aloe vera may enhance its effectiveness in some cases.
VII. Aloe Vera Based Recipes
Aloe Vera is mainly applied externally to the skin, but can also be used internally for certain treatments. For the latter approach, you may make juices or even smoothies.
As for a cutaneous application, by mixing aloe gel with other substances it is possible to obtain creams, gels, or even oils.
1. Recipe of Aloe Vera to Be Consumed Internally
To make an aloe vera juice to be consumed orally, follow the steps and instructions below:
You will need two spoons of aloe gel extracted from its leaf, the juice of half a lemon, a spoon of honey, and finally 250ml of water.
Mix the ingredients with a food processor until the mixture is homogeneous.
Depending on your needs and the disease to be cured, you will choose the frequency of consumption of your juice, although a regular and daily intake is best.
2. Aloe Vera Recipe for Skin Application
To make an aloe vera-based mask, it is always interesting and wise to season it with honey.
The reason is simple, the latter also has healing and anti-inflammatory properties, but not only that, it allows among other things to soften the mixture and give it a creamy form.
You will need two spoonfuls of the plant gel and one spoonful of honey. Mix the two elements with a blender and pour the contents into a container.
From there, you can carry out the recipe on your face by realizing a facial mask or even apply it to other places of the body that are affected for example by eczema and mycosis.
VIII. Is Aloe Vera Good for Babies with Eczema?
Aloe vera for babies’ skin is quite safe. Aloe vera is especially effective in fighting baby rashes.
These rashes can inflame your child’s skin and cause itching and red patches.
Allergies and a weak immune system can also lead to skin problems such as eczema and make your little one’s skin more irritated. Aloe vera can help you manage this situation.
IX. Which Types of Aloe Vera Are Best?
To get the most natural form of the substance, you can take the gel directly from the leaf of a live aloe vera plant.
Aloe vera gels can also be found in pharmacies and online stores.
You should look for products with a high concentration of pure aloe vera and use products that contain only natural ingredients.
X. Where to Buy Aloe Vera?
Vous pouvez acheter de l’aloe vera en pharmacie ou dans les magasins. Il est important de vérifier soigneusement la liste des ingrédients lorsque vous achetez des gels d’aloe vera ou d’autres produits de soins de la peau.
Les produits doivent mentionner l’aloe vera ou le jus d’aloe comme ingrédient principal.
Comme les produits figurant dans la liste des ingrédients apparaissent généralement par ordre de quantité, l’aloe vera doit être l’ingrédient principal sur l’étiquette.
Les produits à l’aloe vera doivent également être exempts de parfums et d’alcool, qui peuvent assécher et irriter la peau.
XI. Other Natural Eczema Treatments
1. Probiotics
It has been suggested that eczema symptoms can be treated by altering the composition of the gut bacteria or by reducing inflammation in the gut.
Probiotics, which are live microorganisms taken orally, such as the Lactobacillus bacteria found in unpasteurized milk and yogurt, may do this.
2. Vitamin D
Some research suggests that vitamin D may help treat eczema.
In fact, an analysis of four studies concluded that vitamin D supplementation was more effective in reducing the severity of eczema symptoms than placebo treatment.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar
Eczema is a common problem, and cider vinegar can reduce symptoms by restoring acidity levels in the skin.
In addition, some people report that adding vinegar to baths helps reduce dryness.
However, cider vinegar can also cause chemical burns if applied incorrectly.
4. Sunflower Seed Oil
The sunflower seed oil has anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe itchy, inflamed eczema skin, and can improve skin hydration and preserve the integrity of the skin’s natural barrier.
5. Oatmeal Soap
Oatmeal soap is excellent for moisturizing and protecting your skin. It can gently cleanse, protect your skin, soothe itchy eczema and correct the pH of irritated or inflamed skin.
6. Vitamin B12
Studies have shown that topical vitamin B12 can successfully treat eczema in adults and children.
The theory is that vitamin B12 causes a decrease in the production of nitric oxide, a pro-inflammatory chemical, in the middle layer of the skin.
XII. Side Effects and Risks of Aloe Vera for Skin
Aloe vera is generally safe, but it can cause mild skin reactions, such as itching or burning, in some people.
To avoid these side effects, you can use aloe vera on a small area of skin first and check for signs of irritation or allergies.
If there are no signs of side effects after a few days, you can apply it to a larger area.
XIII. Other Questions About Aloe Vera for Eczema and Fungus Infection
1. Can Aloe Vera Make Eczema Worse?
Aloe vera is unlikely to make eczema worse unless a person is allergic to it.
However, it is always best to do a patch test by applying a small amount to the skin to check for irritation.
2. How to Treat Eczema on the Newborn Face?
Bathe your baby
Use lukewarm water. Hot water can make eczema worse.
Limit your use of soap and talk to your doctor about the type of soap you should use.
Rinse your child’s face twice to remove soap residue.
Keep baths short, as prolonged contact with water can be irritating.
And if he’s not allergic to aloe vera, you can make a simple mask with the gel and leave it on for about 15 minutes.
If the gel does not remove eczema, it will at least relieve him of any itching!
3. How to Apply Aloe Vera for Eczema on the Scalp?
You can use aloe vera products in the same way as other moisturizing products. Rub the gel or mixture directly onto the scalp and let it sit for an hour.
Use a mild shampoo to wash the hair and scalp.
Repeat this process 2-3 times a week as needed.
4. Can I Rub Aloe Plant on My Skin?
Most people can use aloe vera topically for minor skincare issues.
In general, it is well-tolerated, although skin irritation and allergic reactions are possible.
5. Can I Sleep with Aloe Vera on my Face?
Yes, it is best to apply it before bedtime, after showering, or when the skin is damp, as this is when the pores open and the product is more easily absorbed.
Massage your face, neck, and hands with aloe vera gel just before bed.
Aloe vera is non-greasy and gentle and penetrates the layers of the skin to deeply moisturize it. Wake up to silky smooth skin.
Useful Links:
Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) Studies
The Importance of Diversity in Clinical Trials
Dried and Candied Aloe Vera Benefits [+ Recipes]