Study Reveals Coconut Oil may be Natural Cure for Dermatitis

If you’re searching for a dermatitis cure you may have come across a number of possible solutions. Traditional treatments may include prescription drugs and specialized skin lotions. However, have you ever considered trying virgin coconut oil?

Previous studies have found coconut oil is an effective treatment for reducing dryness and itchiness in dry skin; and patients using coconut oil experienced less redness, dryness, and edema. A recent study indicates coconut oil may be an effective natural treatment for dermatitis.

What is Dermatitis?

Dermatitis is a common skin condition that’s characterized by an inflammation of the skin.

There are many types of dermatitis including psoriasis, eczema and urticaria (hives or rashes). There’s no cure, but it can be treated a number of different ways.

Dermatitis Inflammation on Arms

People who have atopic dermatitis may be prone to a higher risk of skin infections. The chronic scratching of dry itchy skin may break open the top layer of your skin making you more susceptible to bacteria and viruses.

Commonly prescribed treatments for this type of dermatitis include antiseptic lotions and/or antibiotics to reduce the bacteria levels and to improve moisture levels. Corticosteroids may also be prescribed to help fight the inflammation.

Unfortunately, results have shown antibiotics may have minimal effects on improving your skin’s condition and some people are concerned about side effects from steroid use.

Study Reveals Coconut Oil may be a Natural Dermatitis Cure

A recent study published in the 2008 Nov/Dec issue of Dermatology revealed the amazing antibiotic and moisturizing effects of coconut oil on atopic dermatitis.

In this study, researchers compared the moisturizing and antibiotic effects of virgin coconut oil and olive oil.

Now many tropical islanders are familiar with the health benefits of coconut oil; and The Mediterraneans have preached the benefits of olive oil for generations.  Take a look at some of the Italian women with their beautiful, flawless skin and it’s no doubt that their healthy Mediterranean diet of fresh fruits, vegetables and ample amounts of olive oil may play a role it this.

Some food scientists believe that virgin coconut oil is superior to olive oil because it contains lauric acid, a potent antimicrobial found to be effective against many strains of bacteria, fungi and protozoa.

Test Results from Applying Coconut Oil on Dermatitis:

• When patients applied a teaspoon of virgin coconut oil (twice a day) to their dermatitis, they experienced significantly less redness, scaling, dryness and edema, compared to the group using olive oil.

• Researchers also discovered that coconut oil caused a marked reduction in bacteria. This was not seen in the group using olive oil. And out of the 26 patients receiving coconut oil, only 1 did not show improvement in their symptoms.

After 4 weeks of applying coconut oil, patients saw improvement in their dermatitis including less redness, dryness and edema. Researchers found coconut oil caused a significant reduction in bacterial skin levels of Staphylococcus aureus. Photo courtesy of Medscape.com and Dermatology, Issue 2008 Nov/Dec.

So not only does your skin benefit from coconut oil’s moisturizers, it may also help reduce the bacterial infections commonly seen in atopic dermatitis. The oil also appears to be completely safe to use as none of the patients experienced any negative side effects from topical or oral administration of coconut oil.

While this may not be a dermatitis cure for everyone, the results are encouraging. If you’re looking for a natural treatment that will help moisturize and nourish your skin, try using virgin coconut oil. It may be the dermatitis cure you’re seeking for healthier and smoother-looking skin.  Remember to consult with your dermatologist or health care provider before beginning any new treatment plans.

Research References:

Novel antibacterial and emollient effects of coconut and virgin olive oils in adult atopic dermatitis. Dermatitis. 2008 Nov-Dec;19(6):308-15.

Comparative study of Staphylococcus aureus isolated from lesional and non-lesional skin of atopic dermatitis patients. Microbiology & Immunology 2000;44:945-7.

Medicinal plants of the Philippines; Quisumbing E. , Manila: JMC Press; 1978.p. 127-32..