Skin, chapped

The skin is a protective barrier, defending the body from all outside environmental influences, including extremes in temperature and exposure to disease organisms, wind and ultraviolet rays from sunshine. Chapped skin causes roughness, cracking and soreness.

The skin becomes dry, sore and cracked when the natural oils are depleted and the defense system overburdened. The cause is usually extended exposure to the elements, especially the wind, cold and sun, but also repeated contact with soaps, chemicals and water. This is aggravated by neglect, by not using the additional protection of sun screens and clothing when subjecting the skin to the elements, and by not using rubber gloves when cleaning, scrubbing or holding the hands in water for extended periods. The skin will also become dry from the body's lack of fluids or oils in the form of essential fatty acids. The redness and soreness of chafing are caused by the friction of clothing, often due to harsh detergents present in the fabrics or to rough, tight-fitting clothing.

Supplements and herbs

Dry, chapped skin is due to a deficiency in essential fatty acids or vitamins A, B and C. The essential fatty acids in evening primrose oil are very beneficial in keeping the skin healthy and smooth. If the lips are cracked and sore, B vitamins are lacking. Vitamin A is also an essential nutrient for the skin.

Take herbs that will benefit the glands, circulation, nerves and digestion, which, when functioning properly, will provide healthy, supple skin.

• Comfrey cream, applied externally, will assist in new cell growth.
• In dry weather, apply calendula ointment to chapped skin.
• After bathing, apply oils of St. John's wort, olive or mashed avocado.

What else you can do

• Dry brush skin in the mornings to stimulate circulation and the sebaceous glands.
• Apply cold Kneipp hydrotherapy to stimulate circulation. Alternate daily with dry brushing.
• Moderate sun exposure in the early morning and late afternoon is healthy for the skin, and activates the production of vitamin D in the body which, in turn, will promote healthy skin.
• In winter, use a humidifier or place bowls of water near the heater to counteract the moisture loss created by central heating.

How much to take

• Evening primrose oil, two 500 mg capsules three times daily
• Vitamin B complex, 50 mg
• Vitamin A, 25,000 IU (avoid during pregnancy)
• Vitamin C, with bioflavonoids, 1,500 mg

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