Eczema and complementary and alternative medicine

Many types of alternative and complementary medicines do not conform to medical knowledge and many of these treatments are backed up by patient-led evidence, which says that they work, rather than medical research.  When a practitioner says that their treatments cannot be used alongside conventional medicines then these are known as ‘alternative’ medicines whereas if they can be used alongside conventional medicines then they are known as ‘complementary’.

Can complementary treatments be used to treat eczema?

Using complementary treatments for eczema does not necessarily mean that conventional treatments should be stopped.  Both forms of treatment can be used together in order to get results.

Complementary medicine is not a cure for eczema but many people with eczema use complementary treatments to reduce the impact of eczema on their quality of life.  It can also be useful in helping people to relax, relieve stress and help to control symptoms.

How can I find safe complementary treatment?

If you would like to try a form of complementary therapy, it is advisable to talk about the issue with your GP or nurse.  Some treatments are available on the NHS.  However, many people often choose to go privately if their GP or nurse is unable, or unwilling, to refer them to a particular practice.  A few GP surgeries do offer one or two complementary treatments, particularly where a GP may also be a qualified homeopath, acupuncturist or osteopath.

It is wise to be careful when considering complementary therapy.  ‘Natural’ does not necessarily mean safe.  Many practitioners are not medically qualified.  Training can vary considerably and at present anyone can set themselves up as a homeopath or acupuncturist.  It is important to be aware of the following questions before starting any form of complementary treatment.

• What training has the practitioner received?
• Is he or she qualified?
• Is the practitioner registered with a recognised ‘umbrella’ organisation?
• Does the organisation have a ‘Code of Practice’?

The ‘umbrella’ organisation for each therapy can inform you what training their members have had, their code of ethics, and they can refer you to qualified practitioners in your area.

Useful Addresses

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