Can licorice water treat eczema?
Licorice water has a certain effect in treating eczema.
Eczema is a common skin condition with complex causes and can be difficult to treat. Managing eczema requires a comprehensive approach that considers the patient's specific condition, age, overall health, and other factors, using targeted treatment plans.
For eczema, soaking licorice in water may provide some benefits. Licorice possesses antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antipruritic (anti-itch), analgesic (pain-relieving), heat-clearing, and detoxifying properties. Therefore, washing affected skin areas with licorice-infused water can help kill local bacteria, reduce inflammation, and accelerate skin healing. Alternatively, one may use licorice water for local moist compresses or add it to bathwater to cleanse the skin and alleviate eczema symptoms. Additionally, for skin fissures caused by eczema, applying a mixture of licorice water and glycerin to the affected area may promote wound healing.
If eczema develops, it is recommended to first use corticosteroid medications under medical guidance, such as hydrocortisone cream or triamcinolone acetonide cream. If itching is severe, antihistamines like loratadine tablets or ebastine tablets may be taken orally as directed by a physician to relieve itching.