Whesterners .

Whesterners have also used herbs for centuries to heal and cleanse the body. Many herbalists and homeopathic doctors believe that herbs can help cleanse toxins from our systems, strengthening our bodies and allowing us to head off a case of dermatitis.

Herbs are thought to be effective through several different healing pathways. For example, burdock and red clover are liver tonics, which when taken orally can help the liver to filter toxins from the blood. When the liver is filtering effectively the skin is healthier. Calendula flowers, licorice root, and ginkgo all have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. They can be applied topically in lotion, oil or ointment form to the affected area to reduce itching and inflammation. The gel from Aloe vera plants, the juice of plantain leaves (Plantago officinalis) or a poultice of the leaves themselves can also be applied topically to the affected areas to help soothe skin irritations associated with dermatitis.

Other natural herbal treatments can be prepared to help relieve the itching associated with dermatitis. Recipes for topical pastes may include:
Green clay and goldenseal root in equal parts

Equal parts salt, water, clay, and peppermint oil

Calamine lotion
Coal tar lotions, shampoos, bath oils
To help soothe irritated skin you can steep a chamomile tea bag in hot water for several minutes, allow it to cool slightly, then place it on the irritated skin for a couple of minutes. This may provide some relief to the area and can be repeated as necessary.

Topical evening primrose oil (EPO) is another herbal extract found helpful by some for dermatitis conditions. Studies have not fully established its efficacy, however, with disappointing results in some and encouraging results in others. Among other variables, it is quite possible that the method in which EPO is applied greatly affects outcome. In a study done in Germany, the authors found that an emulsion of EPO in water worked best to speed healing of the skin layers.