'Skin rashes" is a general term that describes a group of spots, an area of inflammation, or changes in the color or texture of the skin. Most of the time a rash that has been present for a couple of days will go away on its own. Warning signs that should send you to the doctor sooner rather than later are pain, rapid swelling causing shortness of breath, bleeding blisters in the mouth or eyes, skin that is rapidly turning dusky or black, and large amounts of skin peeling in sheets. As you can see, using rash rule #1 of frustration will get you to the right place.

The most common rashes and their causes:

Contact Rashes - are common rashes often caused by dyes and chemicals in clothing, rubber, latex and elastic, cosmetics, soaps, detergents and plants like Poison Oak, Poison Ivy and Poison Sumac?

Dandruff or Seborrheic Dermatitus - are common rashes associated with age, stress, fatigue, weather extremes, oily skin, infrequent shampooing and alcohol-based lotions.

Other common rashes include Eczema (often associated with allergies or asthma), Psoriasis, Impetigo, Shingles and rashes caused by a host of childhood diseases like chickenpox, measles and scarlet fever.

Herbal Medicine for Skin Rashes

Apis : Apis is to be used in the homeopathic treatment of person affected with skin rashes where an allergic response from the body to an allergen was the cause of the rash, resulting in a condition like hives, this treatment must also be followed where the rash is pinkish in color and is accompanied by a swelling in the affected area usually appearing with burning and or stinging pain and discomfort. Further more the application of external cold compresses can alleviate the swelling and the discomfort in the affected regions of the body. The appearance of any of these symptoms in the body of the affected person requires the utilization of Apis as a homeopathic remedy.

Ledum: Ledum is to be used in the homeopathic treatment of individuals afflicted with a skin rash, where the rash is given to swelling and puffiness along with itchy sensations. The application of cold compresses may soothe the discomfort felt from the swollen and itchy areas. The appearance of any of these symptoms in the affected person requires the immediate use of Ledum as a homeopathic remedy.

Homeopathy Ape: Graphites, Pulsatilla, Rhus tox. And Sulfur may be helpful. Herbal Medicine Marigold tea, calendula ointment, or aloe Vera gel is all helpful. Aromatherapy Add 12 drops of fennel, geranium, or sandalwood to 2fl oz/60ml of carrier oil.

Goldenseal: To make an astringent wash, pour 1 cup boiling water over 2 teaspoons powdered root. Let cool. Apply four times a day. After each application, sprinkle a little powdered root on the rash.

Herbal Healing Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Comfrey Root, Marshmallow Root, Marigold Flowers & Beeswax.

Witch hazel: Make a no distilled extract by soaking 1/2 cup leaves in 1 cup water for 24 hours. Add 2 tablespoons alcohol as a preservative. Or use a standardized commercial extract. Apply up to four times a day.

Utica: is to be used in the homeopathic treatment of a skin rash afflicting a person having all the symptoms of a nettle rash in appearance as well as in the sensations, the skin is covered by blotches, accompanied with an intense stinging and burning sensation.