Molluscum Contagiosum is a viral skin condition that causes round, flesh-colored, painless bumps that may resemble warts. Scratching or picking at the bumps can cause the infection to spread. Molluscum contagiosum is most common in children, but it may also affect adults.
- This virus LOVES eczema patches and it easily spreads.
- When kids scratch the bumps, the virus goes under their finger nails and easily spreads to other parts of the body.
- It spreads from skin to skin contact. For example, you may notice bumps spreading from one thigh to another in the summer months when kids wear shorts.
- This virus lives on towels.
- It is dreaded by all parents.
- It can last 12 month to 4 years (sorry)
The cycle of the Molluscum
- bump with a white central core
- red irritated
- red irritated with pus like middle (not infected)
- red bump with crusty core
- healing
It is important to understand how these bumps progress so you don’t get un-necessary antibiotics or panic. Red hot lava bumps means that they are getting irritated and a signal is sent to the body that something is amiss. The body has no idea that molloscum is trying to invade since the virus is so superficial. Once the body sends the immune system over to see what the irritation is about, it causes a strong inflammatory response (red bumps with pus) and then the body gets to work healing that area. Once the immune system arrives to the scene, it notices the invading virus and creates antibodies agains the virus. The more antibodies, the faster the healing. The remedies listed below may cause the bumps to turn red and angry and that is good news.
Natural Molluscum Contagiosum Remedies
1. Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a popular home remedy, although there is a lack of research to confirm its effectiveness. Use a clean cotton swab to apply raw apple cider vinegar (ACV) to areas of itching or tingling skin. Keep the swab in place for several hours with a bandage.
People with sensitive skin may wish to dilute the ACV with a little water before applying it. If it causes any irritation, remove the swab immediately, and gently wash the skin. Irritation will heal as discussed above.
2. Tea Tree Oil and Iodine (Zymaderm)
Tea tree oil has antiseptic properties, and it can soothe itchy and inflamed skin.
Iodine helps to kill germs on the skin, and people use it to treat a range of skin conditions
A 2012 study of children with molluscum contagiosum reported that the majority of those who used a combination of tea tree oil and iodine saw a reduction of more than 90 percent in the number of skin lesions after 30 days of twice-daily treatment
As tea tree oil can cause a skin reaction in some people, it is important to do a patch test before applying it to a larger area of skin. If 24 hours pass with no reaction, it should be safe to use. Never consume tea tree oil.
3. Australian Lemon Myrtle Oil
The results of a small study in children with this condition suggest that applying a 10-percent solution of the oil once a day for 21 days can reduce lesions by over 90 percent. Doterra does not currently have this oil available.
4. Other Essential Oils
- Neem Oil – I love this for overall eczema treatment as well.
- Eucalyptus – Doterra $17
- Thyme – Doterra $29.99, Amazon option here $8.99. I prefer Doterra.
- Lavender – Doterra $23.00
- Oil of Oregano – Doterra $22.00
Beware of which essential oils you purchase. Not all are created equal and not all can be used topically and ingested.
5. Boost Immune Function
- Eat a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthful fats
- Avoid sugar, refined grains, and fatty and processed foods, aka foods in packages and chick-fil-A
- Try probiotic foods or supplements
- Play outside 1 hr daily (so sad I have to include this)
- Poop everyday
- Sleep 9-12 hours a night (age dependent)
- Seek treatment for nutrient deficiencies, Zinc, Vitamin D, Iron, Vitamin A
PS. Thank you all for purchasing through my affiliate links. This helps me bring you tons of free content.
In good health, Dr. Ana-Maria
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