The beauty of essential oil for itching is that it can be used for several other aliments, not just to alleviate skin itching. Itchy skin may be triggered by different causes such as atopic dermatitis, hives, bug bites, sunburn, or if your skin is too dry. And as you know, if your skin is always itching and you keep scratching, it may lead to broken skin, which will develop into a sore in no time, maybe even cause an infection.
That is why people are advised to avoid scratching their skin when itches but look for a cure instead.
Essential oil to stop itching
It is true that there are several treatments, ointments, and creams like calamine lotions, hydrocortisone creams, and antihistamine ointments that are highly effective against itchy skin, but they are not the only treatments available today. Essential Oils are also very effective, and they are truly organic in the sense that they contain no synthetic chemicals but natural compounds.
These oils are extracted from plants, and their compounds speed up the healing process significantly. Aromatherapists use essential oils for many purposes, such as to address multiple skin issues like
- Aging skin
- Acne
- Burns
- Eczema
- Psoriasis
- Shingles
- Bug bites
- Warts cold sores
These oils have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that also boost the health of your immune system. Moreover, oils also reduce infection risks substantially because they contain antibacterial agents.
The best essential oil for itchy skin
Now that you know what essential oils are and some of their uses, let us identify some of the best oils to help you stop that itch that has made your life uncomfortable and at times unbearable.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is a very famous oil known for treating skin itch. This oil is extracted from the tea tree of Australia, and it possesses certain health benefits. It is very potent and has antibacterial, antiviral, and anti fungi properties. These properties make it a very effective solution against itching, especially if it is caused by viruses and bacterial. Even more important is the fact that it can be used to prevent infections.
Chamomile Oil
Chamomile oil is another effective anti-itch essential oil. This scented oil serves as both an antiseptic against bacteria, and it also has amazing anti-inflammatory properties. If your skin itch is caused by hemorrhoids, eczema, or skin dryness, Chamomile will provide soothing relief. It is also effective for curing rashes linked to heat. Chamomile is also an effective hair solution. there is no surprise that chamomile is good for skin, as it is also frequently used by people to de-puff their faces or help with dark circles.
Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil contains menthol, which causes a cooling sensation when applied to the skin. It is so effective that it can be used to treat severe skin itch caused by kidney disease or diabetes. Peppermint oil also moisturizes the skin to keep it hydrated; however, its harshness may cause discomfort, especially to the affected area, which is why users are advised to mix it with a carrier oil.
Lavender
Lavender oil is another popular essential oil for itching. Its anti fungi agents make it an ideal solution for itching and bug bites, ringworm, athlete foot, and the likes. Lavender has a welcoming scent, and it also has a moisturizing effect.
Rose Geranium
Rose Geranium is another good one. This oil is extracted from the Rose flower, and it is rich in antioxidants. Rose Geranium also has antibacterial and anti fungi compounds for alleviating itching triggered by skin dryness and eczema. For best results, you may choose to blend with chamomile or any other essential oil, but make sure you mix with a carrier oil before use, to avoid any unwanted side effects.
Lemongrass
Lemongrass is sourced from the plant by the same name. It reduces skin discomfort caused by infections or allergies. If your skin is beginning to swell because of itching, lemongrass greatly will reduce the swelling in no time. Furthermore, it is a great insect repellent if diffused in a home.
Other essential oil examples
There are several other essential oils that are effective anti-itch solutions. They are
- Bergamot
- Eucalyptus
- Frankincense
How to use essential oils
There are a few ways to use essential oil to treat an itch.
Apply as a lotion
One way is to apply it as a lotion. To do this, you first have to mix it with a carrier oil like olive or jojoba oil. You can make your lotion by adding one drop of carrier oil to two or three drops of the essential oil. Apply to the affected region twice daily for quicker results.
Diffuse it
Diffusion is not as effective as applying the oil directly to the affected area. Nonetheless, some people prefer to diffuse the oil, especially as a preventative measure.
Use blends
Another option is to use different oils as blends. This involves mixing different oils together to form a rich blend. You can mix 2 drops of the following oils, each with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil and 1 tablespoon of hazel.
- Lemongrass
- Chamomile
- Tea tree oil
- Peppermint
Safety precautions
Note that essential oils have adverse reactions if they are not used properly. The first thing you want to be mindful of is that you do not buy adulterated oil. Using adulterated oil could endanger your health. Another thing you should never do is to apply the oil to your skin without mixing it with a carrier oil. This may lead to skin irritation that will make the itch worse.
Also, the solution you use should not be too strong. Essential oils are very potent, so you want to reduce their potency to just 5% but not more than 10%. Another thing is to make sure you test the oil on a small part of your skin before using it over a wider area. This is important because not everybody will react favorably to essential oils. Some people react negatively to it, so you need to be sure you are not in such a category.
If you notice your skin is reacting negatively to it, make sure you wash it off quickly. Lastly, essential oil for itching should not be used on a baby. It is also advisable to consult your doctor before you use it.
Essential oil for itching Frequently Asked Questions
Where are essential oils sourced from?
These oils are extracted from trees and plants. In the case of tea tree oil, for instance, this oil is sourced from the Tea Tree. Rose Geranium is extracted from the Rose plant.
Do essential oils contain chemicals?
No, they do not. Chemical compounds are unnatural compounds that are doctored in a lab in most cases. Natural compounds, on the other hand, are found in essential oils.
Are all essential oils good treatments against itching?
No, all essential oils are not good treatments against itching. Before you use any, make sure it works for the purpose you desire.
How many times should I apply the oil to the skin?
Essential Oil for itching should be applied at least twice a day. In worst cases, you may apply it more than twice.
