According to a new study in the journal “International Journal of Dermatology” (2002, 41:146-50), children and adults who suffer from eczema may find relief by taking vitamin E supplements,
Eczema is a chronic disease that causes flaking skin, redness and hardening of the skin areas. Also might appear small blisters (called vesicles) that rupture, discharge liquid and produce scales. The most worrisome and prevalent symptom of eczema is itching. Eczema is commonly associated with a personal or family history of asthma or hay fever.
The exact cause is not clear but some research suggests that may be due to overstimulation of the immune system. Within the conventional treatments for eczema may include oral antihistamines, antibiotics and topical or oral steroids. Although these treatments help in many cases, could also have adverse side effects. Vitamin E on the other hand, is essentially free of side effects.
The researchers assessed 96 people aged 10 to 60 years with moderate cases of eczema. Participants received either 400 IU of natural vitamin E daily or placebo for a period of eight months. Those who received vitamin E, had a much more significant improvement than those receiving placebo.
60% of the vitamin E group reported a “marked improvement” or complete elimination of eczema, while only 2% in the placebo group experienced similar results. Immunoglobulin E levels in the blood (IgE), a measure of immune system stimulation, also decreased in those taking vitamin E, while there was no change in IgE levels in the placebo person.
Other studies have shown that food allergies are the leading cause of eczema in many individuals. Some doctors recommend an elimination diet, followed by some experiments with food, to identify those who may be causing the eczema in a person.
A deficiency in essential fatty acids (EFAs) may also be an additional cause of eczema. Some studies have shown that people with eczema often have lower levels of AGEs in the blood and are improved eczema soon after starting supplementation with AGE. Several studies indicate that gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and fish oil are useful for the treatment of eczema.
Linolenic acid is found in relatively high amounts in borage oil and evening primrose or the spring (primrose). Some doctors recommend 1 to 3 grams either primrose oil or fish a day, although higher amounts may be needed to achieve the desired results. Consult a physician or nutritionist to determine the correct amount for you.
