Home remedies for body rash or a skin rash are important, as rashes can cause relentless aggravation and discomfort if not effectively treated. While there are over the counter creams and prescription medications that can offer sufferers relief from body rash symptoms, such treatments do not address the cause of the skin eruptions. On the other hand, natural remedies for a body rash often not only offer relief, but also can be helpful in determining the cause of the rash and help to eliminate the chances of its return. The first step in understanding body rash remedies, however, is to understand what they are and what causes them to occur in the first place.
Body Rash Definition
A body rash is characterized by a discoloration in the skin or a change in its texture. Irritations can be apparent on the entire body, but most frequently a body rash will affect a particular part of the body, such as the neck, chest, arms, face or some other area.
Body Rash Causes
Several internal and external factors can cause a body rash to occur. Some may be caused by allergies or common skin disorders, while others may be caused by insect bites. A few of the most frequent causes of a body rash are:
- Eczema
- Dermatitis
- Heat rash
- Allergies
- Fungal infection
While these symptoms are not life threatening, in the case of a fungal infection, a body rash can be highly contagious and can spread to other parts of the body. Other body rash symptoms may be caused by an illness or viral infection, such as Measles.
A body rash may last from a few hours to several weeks, but in some cases, a body rash may last for longer periods of time.
Body Rash Symptoms
The symptoms of a body rash will vary depending upon its cause and whether or not the rash is aggravated by rubbing or scratching. A few of the symptoms of a body rash include:
- Inflamed skin
- Skin that is warm to the touch
- Skin that has darkened or changed colors (usually white, red or blotchy)
- Bumpy skin
- Scaly skin
- Itchy skin
- Dry skin
- A burning sensation of the skin
Home Remedies for Body Rash
Before applying a home remedy for body rash, cleanse the affected area with fresh, warm chamomile tea. If chamomile flowers aren’t readily on hand, warm water can be used either by itself or with a gentle cleanser. However, harsh soaps should be avoided as they may cause further irritation.
One or more of the following home remedies for body rash may then be used or relief from itching or burning, as well as for a natural cure:
- Olive oil
- Aloe Vera gel
- Oatmeal bath
- Vitamin E oil
- Cod liver oil
A soothing poultice that is quite effective in healing rashes is one made of dandelion, yellow dock root and chaparral. Mixing these herbs together with water and applying the mixture to the rash before covering it with a bandage is one of the most comforting and effective home remedies for body rash symptoms. After using the poultice, skin should be left uncovered as much as possible to then allow it time to breathe and heal.
Other herbs that can help soothe and heal body rashes include:
- Spikenard
If symptoms are accompanied by a fever, if they spread or begin to blister, or if symptoms last more than a couple of weeks, it is advised that medical attention be sought to assure that a more severe, underlying illness is not the cause. However, most find that home remedies for body rash are simple and inexpensive, yet highly effective in helping skin recover without medical intervention.
