It is important for all parents of babies to know how to treat diaper rash. Any method of treatment should be gentle, since babies have soft and delicate skin. There are natural ways to treat the symptoms of diaper rash and help prevent another flare-up from occurring. Nearly every infant will develop diaper rash at some point. Diaper rash that persists for an extended period of time should be treated by a physician.
According to Mayo Clinic, diaper rash can occur if a baby's skin becomes irritated by a dirty diaper that has been left on for too long. Other babies develop rashes when they start eating solid foods due to changes in the frequency and consistency of their stools. Diapers that are put on too tight can rub up against the skin, and cause a rash.
Herbal Diaper Rash Treatment Options
An herbal diaper rash treatment can help soothe the skin in the affected area. Chamomile is recommended in Jude's Herbal Home Remedies by Jude C. Williams and Jude Todd (Llewellyn Worldwide, LTD. September 2002). The book recommends mixing one tablespoon of chamomile with one cup of boiling water. Give it time to cool. Strain it and then mix in two tablespoons of cod liver oil. Clean the baby's diaper rash area and apply the herbal mixture.
The gel from the Aloe vera plant has been used as a topical treatment for healing for thousands of years. According to the National Institutes of Health, preliminary research supports the belief that aloe vera can heal wounds and inflammation to the skin. It can also help stop itching, and soothes rashes.
Calendula is another herb that is used to heal ailments of the skin. This flower, which is also known as marigold, contains flavonoids that offer protection from the damaging effects of free radicals. Calendula has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. This herb can relieve itching, burning and irritation. It is available as a cream and ointment.
Dietary Habits to Prevent Baby Rash Outbreaks
A baby rash can develop if an infant consumes too much acid. Limit the infant's intake of orange juice and other citrus fruit juices. Spicy foods can also lead to diaper rash, according to Herbal Remedies for Children's Health by Rosemary Gladstar (Workman Publishing Company, Inc., January 1999). Nursing mothers should also stay away from these foods, as they can be passed along to their babies through breast milk.
Keep the baby well hydrated, offering water and cranberry juice, which can help neutralize acids that build up in urine. Another treatment option is acidophilus. Acidophilus is one of the so called good bacteria that naturally resides in the digestive tract. It is available as a special preparation for children in some health stores. Mix it with plain unsweetened yogurt and put it on the affected area.
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