What is Pityriasis Rosea? Here are 8 Natural Remedies to Treat The ‘Christmas Rash’

We can develop rashes anytime; be it naturally or from direct contact with things that can cause them. Our bodies are fighting with bacteria causing infection every day. Unfortunately, not all of us are insusceptible to certain foreign invasions.

There are many different types of skin problems that can happen to anyone. Rashes or skin breakouts can either be mild or severe, depending greatly on our body’s tolerance to infection.

Although there are many types, there is one kind of skin rash that most people aren’t familiar with. If you’ve encountered seeing someone with small to large red patches on their skin, the condition is called pityriasis rosea.

Pityriasis Rosea is a kind of rash that starts as a large circle or oval shaped patch that appears on the chest, back or abdomen. It is also referred to as herald patch and can be about four inches or ten centimeters across.
Beginning with the herald or mother patch, smaller patches or daughter patches will usually follow and fan out from the center of your body outwards. The smaller patches would usually resemble pine-tree branches that are drooping. This is why pityriasis rosea is often referred to as the ‘Christmas Rash.’

The skin condition can occur to any one of all ages. Children and young adults are generally affected by pityriasis rosea and may also occur in pregnant women. The upside of this skin problem is that it will only be temporary. This means that it can only appear around six to eight weeks. However, when a person has pityriasis rosea, it would usually come with itching and discomfort.

What causes the skin condition pityriasis rosea to appear?

There is no known direct cause of pityriasis rosea. However, there are certain viruses that are linked to skin rashes. These viruses come from the family of human herpes known as herpes virus type 6 and 7. Although the transmission of the disease is also not known, there are suggestions that respiratory contact could also be the culprit. However, not all of the cases do not always apply as some people who are exposed do not contract the rash.

How is pityriasis rosea recognized?

The symptoms of pityriasis rosea are not often recognized right away except for just the rash most of the time. About 50% of individuals who are affected reported mild or intermittent itch and discomfort after working out or taking hot showers. In rare cases, flu-like symptoms will surface followed by fatigue, nausea, sore throat, body aches and even loss of appetite as the rash develops. When an individual is stressed, the symptoms become more prevalent. For most individuals, they usually don’t show signs of compromise in their health and display symptoms.

The upside of this skin rash is that it is only temporary and does not cause a need to worry. However, it is also necessary to seek a doctor’s consultation if you experience any of these symptoms as they may also lead to other conditions as well.

Treatments and getting rid of symptoms of pityriasis rosea

Having this skin rash all over your body can be unsightly and unpleasant. However, before turning to prescribed medications and therapy, getting rid of pityriasis rosea symptoms can also be done naturally. Here are eight home remedies you can try to lessen the outbreak:

Aloe Vera

This is one herb that is easy to find or plant at home. The soothing and hydrating effects of aloe vera are ideal for any kind of rashes or outbreaks, including pityriasis rosea. Not only that, aloe vera has antimicrobial properties that will help fight germs in your body. The gel from aloe vera will help prevent the spreading of the infection and faster healing.

To use, just break a leaf and scoop out one half of it with a spoon. Apply the gel directly on the concerned areas at least three times a day.

Natural oatmeal

Oatmeal is also an excellent home remedy for skin outbreaks and is a great natural skin exfoliator. Soaking yourself regularly in a warm oatmeal bath can help get rid of dirt and germs from the body as well as dead skin cells without aggravating your skin.

To use, just grind fresh, dry oatmeal to become powder and mix one cup of the ingredient in a tub of water. Make sure to stir well and dip yourself for about 10 to 20 minutes daily.

Virgin Coconut Oil

Itchiness from pityriasis rosea can usually worsen when skin is dry. Using coconut oil can help reduce the inflammation and itching from the rash and moisturize your skin as well. Just use a few drops of coconut oil and apply to the areas of concern at least two times a day.

Raw Garlic Cloves

It may sound disgusting but chewing raw garlic cloves is an effective way to treat when rashes break out. Garlic is rich in anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties and can lessen itch and inflammation from the rashes. Simply slice and peel off a few cloves of raw garlic and chew on them while your stomach is empty. Drink water afterward to wash off the unpleasant taste.

Antihistamines

These can easily be found over-the-counter and usually can succeed in reducing breakouts from pityriasis rosea.

Cold compress

Get a towel and soak it in cold water then apply the cold compress in affected areas. This method may provide relief from itching that is temporary.

Catechu Paste

This ingredient is extracted from the acacia tree and created into a paste. Use this paste and apply it on the areas of concern and leave to dry. This remedy can help soothe and relieve from the itch caused by the rashes. This remedy can also be purchased over-the-counter and can also be bought online.

Neem Leaves

These leaves are also one of the most effective remedies in reducing itch from pityriasis rosea rashes. Not only that, but it is also easy to find. Just find a few clumps of neem leaves and put into boiling water. Let the water cool and add into your daily bath. Neem has antifungal and antibacterial properties that can help with ease the itch and inflammation.

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