Two new developments in eczema prevention and treatment

Riding to the Rescue

You may have never heard of linalool, but you probably have some in your home. And if you have eczema, linalool just might be driving you mad.

Oxidation happens

Hundreds of plant species naturally produce linalool, including citrus fruits, mints, cinnamon, lavender, and even some fungi. And because this natural chemical has a very pleasant aroma, it’s used in many personal hygiene products – especially soaps, shampoos and conditioners.

By some estimates, about one percent of eczema patients are allergic to linalool. But a new study from Sweden’s University of Gothenburg indicates that many more people than previously thought may have this allergy.

When researchers conducted patch testing of oxidized linalool on more than 3,000 eczema patients, about six percent were found to be allergic. And the key word here is “oxidized.”

According to the Gothenburg team, linalool triggers allergies only when the chemical has been oxidized, simply by being exposed to oxygen. Some products include ingredients designed to delay oxidation, but when the cap of a shampoo bottle is left open or a bar of soap sits exposed in a soap dish, oxidation is inevitable.

Apparently this oxidation effect may be diminished with products in which linalool is included as a natural component of essential oils. Synthetic linalool is typically added in much higher concentrations.

Sweet relief

U.S. manufacturers of soap, shampoo, and other hygiene products aren’t obligated to list ingredients on product labels, so it’s difficult to figure out what products contain synthetic linalool. Some product websites offer more information than the label does, so it’s worth a check.

Meanwhile, the May 2009 issue of the HSI Members Alert features a product that will be of interest to eczema patients, whether or not they’re allergic to linalool.

The product is Eczederm Rescue, and I can tell you from personal experience, this is one product that really works. That is: It works for me and for many others who have shared heartfelt testimonials.

Eczederm Rescue topical cream is a unique herbal formula that includes ingredients that have long been used to relieve eczema and other skin problems. Bloodroot, pokeroot, neem, arnica, comfrey leaf and other components provide a safe anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial treatment that goes to work fast.

Before talking to a doctor about trying Eczederm Rescue, HSI members can use their monthly password to access the Eczederm article on our website at hsionline.com.

Every month, the HSI Members Alert keeps you up-to-date about groundbreaking health products and the latest innovations in alternative medicine. Find out how you can be among the very first to learn about cutting edge cures you’ll rarely hear about in the mainstream media.

Sources:
“Common Fragrance Ingredients In Shampoos And Conditioners Are Frequent Causes Of Eczema” Science Daily, 3/27/09, sciencedaily.com
“Nothing – and I mean nothing – has ever had such a wonderful healing effect on my eczema” Melissa Hickle, HSI Members Alert, May 2009, hsionline.com