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Eczema is undoubtedly on the increase: an estimated one in 12 adults and almost 20% of schoolchildren in the UK are now thought to be affected¹. Cases have increased three-fold over the last 30 years. Many experts believe this may be linked to environmental factors or diet, and the increased use of drying detergents. Such is the concern that the All Party Parliamentary Group on Skin was established to monitor the situation. Because steroid creams are frequently not a long-term solution for eczema, natural ointments offer a genuine alternative for topical treatment. Especially for mild childhood eczema which is common in babyhood and can be triggered and aggravated by synthetic ingredients (perfumes, detergents, colourings) in cosmetics such as bubblebaths. With a chronic shortage of dermatologists in the UK, many of us are opting for self-help measures, and this is where we may come unstuck. Researchers have warned in a recent report² that there are some so-called 'herbal' creams and ointments in circulation in the UK which may not be as natural as they claim. Some have been found to contain powerful steroids, often with inappropriate directions for use. Imported and unlicensed remedies are not subject to the same controls and regulations as licensed medicines. Weleda's soothing Dermatodoron Ointment is a licensed anthroposophic medicine specifically indicated for eczema. It's available on NHS prescription through your doctor, but for most of us it is less expensive to buy it over the counter from independent pharmacies (RRP £4.10 for 25g) or from Weleda at www.weleda.co.uk or 0115 9558222. Made from only natural ingredients, it is often used alongside conventional prescribed drug treatments to manage chronic eczema on a daily basis between flare ups. Ointments have distinct advantages over creams and lotions for the treatment of dry skin conditions. Ointments are particularly efficient because they seal moisture into the skin and sit on the surface as an occlusive layer, allowing the active ingredients to work for longer at the problem site. Creams and lotions are quickly and conveniently absorbed, but do not therefore offer the same outer protective layer where it is needed. As they contain water, they also require added preservatives to combat the growth of bacteria, and so cannot be truly natural products. And these same artificial preservatives can in themselves be irritants for some eczema sufferers. Dermatodoron Ointment contains two plants with active principles silicic acid and saponins. The plant Solanum Dulcamara (Bittersweet) is considered to affect the metabolic function, and has been used in folk medicine since the 13th Century for chronic dermatitis. It contains a class of compounds known as glyco-alkaloids, found in the fruit, stem and leaf of the plant, traditionally used externally to treat weeping eczema due to their local anti-inflammatory action. The flowers of Bittersweet have also shown antibiotic effects. The second plant, Lysimachia, influences the rhythmic function of the skin. This herb is documented as possessing good anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties and has been described as "one of the best possible woundworts". For further details,
press samples or pictures, call Susie Fairgrieve PR on 01452 770805
or email susie@fairgrieve.co.uk
for more information. |
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