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Natural Eczema Treatment: 13 Home Remedies (Plus Symptoms & Causes)

AHA Publisher — Thu, 08 Dec 2022 08:00:05 +0000

Kathleen McCoy, BS via Dr. Axe – Is your skin red, dry, scaly and extremely itchy? These are common eczema symptoms, a skin condition believed to affect more than 31 million Americans, leaving many to search for the best eczema treatment options. What is eczema? It actually isn’t a single condition — it’s a group of skin conditions that includes: atopic dermatitis contact dermatitis dyshidrotic eczema hand eczema neurodermatitis nummular eczema stasis dermatitis Finding a soothing, natural eczema treatment can be life-changing for those suffering from this frustrating condition. Read on to learn about the symptoms, causes and natural eczema treatment options. Causes and Symptoms Eczema typically first appears in very young children. Of further concern is that eczema in children is becoming more and more common. Diseases it can resemble include psoriasis, rosacea and dermatitis, but it’s a different condition. A study conducted by the Department of Pediatrics at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center found that 39 percent of Caucasian children develop eczema by 3 years old. Interestingly, this same study found children who have dogs in the home are significantly less likely to develop it at any age. Although initial outbreaks most often occur in infants and young children, onset can occur at any time. While the majority of the skin conditions that fall under the eczema heading are chronic, it is important to note that contact dermatitis and hand eczema may be acute in nature, occurring due to an exposure to allergens or chemicals. For many people, the severity of flare-ups lessens with maturity, and some may even outgrow it altogether. However, it can come and go throughout life. Learning how to treat eczema and identifying triggers that cause flares are the best courses of action. While there is no definitive answer as to the cause of eczema — and there is no identified cure — there are effective natural treatments, home remedies and essential oils for eczema that may help prevent future flares and ease discomfort during an outbreak. There is a wide range of causes and risk factors associated with this condition, and eczema symptoms can manifest in widely different ways between those affected. While a singular cause of eczema has not been established, there are certain common causes leading to the onset and flares. In addition, a wide range of risk factors has been identified. Risk Factors A genetic predisposition or family history of eczema, hay fever or asthma Young age Being a health care worker Children who attend daycare ADHD Living in a dry climate Nutritional deficiency Adolescent obesity, for later onset of eczema cases Low vitamin D levels during pregnancy, which may increase the risk of developing eczema in the first year of life Causes So far, the medical community has yet to determine a definitive cause of eczema. For some, it may occur due to a nutritional deficiency, while for others it may first arise due to an allergen or other irritant. Here are the widely accepted causes of eczema: Dry skin and sensitive skin that cracks Immune system dysfunction Environmental conditions Gene variation that affects skin Allergies to foods, beauty products, laundry detergents or other chemical allergy Chronic stress Temperature changes Symptoms of Eczema While many experience a lessening of symptoms and fewer flare-ups as they age, some continue to experience eczema symptoms throughout adulthood, such as atopic eczema rashes. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and change from one outbreak to another. Common symptoms include: The appearance of small, raised bumps that may ooze liquid and develop a crust Thick, dry, scaly skin that cracks Red, brown or grayish patches of skin on hands, feet, ankles, wrists, neck, upper chest, eyelids, in skin folds, and on the face and scalp of infants Sensitive skin that is swollen and raw from scratching A recurring rash that causes intense itching, often disrupting sleep patterns Rashes due to atopic eczema Eczema Treatment While there is no cure for eczema, there are a variety of non-invasive eczema treatment options that can provide relief during a flare-up and some that may prevent its onset. These can include corticosteroids, but the following home eczema treatment options may be best. 1. Light Therapy/Phototherapy According to the National Eczema Association, phototherapy helps calm inflammation, reduces itching, increases vitamin D production and helps fight bacteria on the skin. Adding 10–15 minutes a day of sun exposure, particularly during an eczema flare, can provide relief and potentially speed healing. 2. Vitamin D In addition to increasing sun exposure, supplementing with vitamin D foods like cod liver oil, sardines, salmon, eggs and raw milk may help prevent eczema in children and adolescents. If your sun exposure is low, consider boosting your intake with a high-quality supplement. Preliminary research shows that low vitamin D levels during pregnancy and childhood may increase the risk for developing eczema. 3. Moisturize Because dry skin is both a cause and symptom, it is imperative to moisturize affected areas at least twice a day. Coconut oil is the perfect moisturizer for eczema sufferers. This eczema treatment is antibacterial and antifungal, with antimicrobial properties that provide soothing relief, and it may speed healing. 4. Treat the Mind and Body According to Harvard Medical School, some skin conditions, including eczema, have a psychological component. This is a dynamic referred to as psychodermatology. Researchers have found that hypnosis, mindfulness meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, focused breathing, cognitive behavior therapy and talk therapy may provide not only relief during a flare-up, but expedite healing and prevent future flares. 5. Dead Sea Salt Baths The Dead Sea is known for its healing powers, and researchers have found that taking a bath with salt from Dead Sea water improves skin hydration and skin barrier function, reduces inflammation, and relieves redness and roughness. As eczema flares can worsen when exposed to high and low temperatures, bath water should be just warm enough to prevent a chill. Do not rub the skin dry. Pat gently with a soft towel. 6. Cool, Wet Compresses Applying a cool, wet compress lessens the itching for some individuals with eczema. For young children, dampening snug night clothes may provide overnight relief from itching — however, if the condition has evolved to oozing blisters, a wet compress may increase the risk of infection and shouldn’t be used. 7. Apply Itch Cream The intense itching is often the most miserable part of an eczema flare. Try using a natural homemade eczema cream that incorporates shea butter, coconut oil, raw honey and essential oils to provide much-needed relief. 8. Licorice Extract Used topically, licorice root extract shows promise for reducing itching in limited eczema trials. Add a few drops to coconut oil or homemade itch creams for best results. 9. Omega-3 Fatty Acids Researchers from Norwegian University of Science and Technology found that when fish is introduced into the diet of young children by the age of 9 months and is eaten weekly, the risk for developing eczema reduces dramatically. (9) Including foods rich in omega-3s to prevent eczema should be considered. During a flare, these foods are a great eczema treatment that boost immune system function and speed healing. 10. Probiotics Probiotics may help prevent eczema in infants and decrease the severity of flares, research shows. In fact, mothers who take probiotics during pregnancy and while breastfeeding may prevent eczema from developing in their children. During an outbreak and to prevent future flares, taking a high-quality probiotic supplement of 24–100 billion organisms daily should be considered. 11. Lavender Essential Oil In addition to the intense itching, eczema commonly causes anxiety, depression, frustration and poor sleep. Lavender essential oil is an eczema treatment proven to help reduce these common symptoms, and it can help treat dry skin. Add 10 drops to one tablespoon of coconut oil or almond oil, and gently rub into the skin. The aroma can help facilitate sleep, when itching is often at its worst. 12. Vitamin E Taking 400 IU of vitamin E daily can help speed healing by reducing inflammation. In addition, topical application of vitamin E may help relieve the itch and prevent scarring. 13. Witch Hazel If during a flare the rash starts to ooze, applying witch hazel can help promote healing due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Research has found that a cream containing witch hazel and phosphatidylcholine can be as effective as hydrocortisone in a double-blind trial. During an outbreak, gently dab this eczema treatment directly onto the rash with a cotton pad. Be sure to use an alcohol-free witch hazel, as you don’t want to cause more dryness. Related: A Serious Case of ‘Maskne’: How to Prevent & Treat Face Acne Due to Wearing a Mask Eczema and Food Diet can play a role in skin conditions. The following foods to eat can play a role in eczema prevention, relief and treatment, while there are foods to avoid that can make symptoms worse. Foods to Eat: Essential fatty acids — Wild-caught fish and flaxseed oil can help reduce eczema symptoms. Pumpkin or chia seeds — These seeds provide zinc, which is essential for wound healing and metabolizing fatty acids. Probiotic-rich foods — Consume goat’s milk kefir and amasai. These are the highest probiotic foods and can support gut and immune health. High-fiber foods — Constipation can lead your body to look for other ways to expel toxins, and the skin can become one of the avenues in which toxins are expelled. Aim for at least 30 grams of fiber per day from vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, coconut and sprouted grains/legumes. Vitamin A-rich foods — Increase your intake of orange and yellow vegetables, which are high in vitamin A, necessary for skin health. Foods to Avoid: Additives — Eliminate additives and processed foods, which can make eczema worse. Foods allergens — Avoid any potential allergens. Some common allergen foods include gluten, dairy, shellfish or peanuts. Margarine and other non-essential fats — These fats can interfere with the absorption of essential fats critical for healing. Sugar — Increases inflammation and reduces immune function. Fried foods — Can increase inflammation. Precautions Eczema is a skin condition that can result is severe discomfort, disruption of sleep, anxiety and depression, and skin infections. In fact, according to the Mayo Clinic, the majority of people who have eczema also have Staphylococcus aureus bacteria on their skin. When the rash seeps, or excessive itching breaks the skin, severe infections from bacteria and viruses can occur. If an infection does occur, following natural impetigo treatments can help to prevent spreading the infection to others and speed healing. Eczema may make people more prone to heart disease and stroke, research highlighted by Harvard Medical School found. The study found that people with eczema smoke and drink more and are less likely to exercise than those without eczema. All three of these are considered risk factors for heart disease and other chronic conditions. Anxiety, depression and poor sleep quality are real concerns for children and adults alike during a flare. Using essential oils for eczema by diffusing or adding to lotions or creams may help relieve the emotional toll this condition has on those it affects. Children are particularly prone to ridicule at school during an outbreak, especially with eczema on the face. It is not uncommon for children with eczema to withdraw from their social circles and become isolated. Be sure to provide plenty of understanding and support. If you’re struggling with eczema or another skin condition, you can visit a dermatologist for further help. Conclusion There are seven skin conditions that fall under the eczema heading, including contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, hand eczema, neurodermatitis, nummular eczema, eczema stasis dermatitis and the most common offender, atopic dermatitis. Eczema can appear anywhere, but in children it typically develops first on the cheeks, chin and scalp. In adolescents and adults, eczema patches appear in areas that bend, like elbows, knees, ankles, wrists and the neck. Understanding what triggers it and how to get rid of eczema flares requires careful tracking of allergens and all flares as they occur. To prevent future flares, avoid common triggers...

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Study: Light Therapy Fast-Tracks Healing of Skin Damage from Cancer Radiation Therapy

AHA Publisher — Mon, 31 Jan 2022 08:00:46 +0000

University at Buffalo via Newswise – BUFFALO, N.Y. – Light therapy may accelerate the healing of skin damage from radiation therapy by up to 50%, according to a recent University at Buffalo-led study. The research found that photobiomodulation – a form of low-dose light therapy –lowered the severity of skin damage from radionecrosis (the breakdown of body tissue after radiation therapy), reduced inflammation, improved blood flow and helped wounds heal up to 19 days faster. The findings, published on Dec. 28 in Photonics, follow prior reports on the effectiveness of light therapy in improving the healing of burn wounds and in relieving pain from oral mucositis caused by radiation and chemotherapy. The research was led by Rodrigo Mosca, PhD, visiting fellow from the Nuclear and Energy Research Institute (IPEN) and the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, both in Brazil. Carlos Zeituni, PhD, professor at IPEN and the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, is a senior author. “To our knowledge, this is the first report on the successful use of photobiomodulation therapy for brachytherapy,” said senior author Praveen Arany, DDS, PhD, assistant professor of oral biology in the UB School of Dental Medicine. “The results from this study support the progression to controlled human clinical studies to utilize this innovative therapy in managing the side effects from radiation cancer treatments.” Brachytherapy is a form of radiation therapy where a radiation source is implanted within the cancer tissue, exposing surrounding healthy tissue to lower doses of radiation than through teletherapy, a form which fires a beam of radiation through the skin to reach the tumor. Although brachytherapy has improved the precision and safety of cancer care, skin damage is still an unfortunate side effect. Similar to burn wounds, radionecrosis may cause inflammation and scarring and hinder blood flow. Current treatments to manage radionecrosis include routine wound care, pain medication and, in some cases, surgery. Previous research conducted by Arany’s lab found that photobiomodulation promotes healing by activating TGF‐beta 1, a protein that controls cell growth and division by stimulating various cells involved in healing, including fibroblasts (the main connective tissue cells of the body that play an important role in tissue repair) and macrophages (immune cells that lower inflammation, clean cell debris and fight infection). The new study, completed in an animal model, examined the effectiveness of both near-infrared and red LED light at improving the healing of skin damage during radiation therapy. Without photobiomodulation, wounds took an average of 61 days to heal. Using near-infrared light therapy, healing occurred within an average of 49 days. Healing occurred the fastest when using red light therapy, at an average of 42 days. “For over 40 years, photobiomodulation has been known to accelerate the healing of acute and chronic wounds, triggering cellular processes that control inflammation, pain signaling, and tissue regeneration and repair,” said Mosca. Research suggests that the effects of photobiomodulation does not extend to tumor cells, likely due to their perturbed metabolic and regulatory signaling, adds Arany. To read the original article click here.

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Study: Light Therapy Helps Burn Injuries Heal Faster by Triggering Growth Protein

AHA Publisher — Mon, 09 Aug 2021 07:00:40 +0000

University at Buffalo via Newswise – Light therapy may accelerate the healing of burns, according to a University at Buffalo-led study. The research, published in Scientific Reports, found that photobiomodulation therapy – a form of low-dose light therapy capable of relieving pain and promoting healing and tissue regeneration – sped up recovery from burns and reduced inflammation in mice by activating endogenous TGF‐beta 1, a protein that controls cell growth and division. The findings may impact therapeutic treatments for burn injuries, which affect more than 6 million people worldwide each year, says lead investigator Praveen Arany, DDS, PhD, assistant professor of oral biology in the UB School of Dental Medicine. “Photobiomodulation therapy has been effectively used in supportive cancer care, age-related macular degeneration and Alzheimer’s disease,” says Arany. “A common feature among these ailments is the central role of inflammation. This work provides evidence for the ability of photobiomodulation-activated TGF-beta 1 in mitigating the inflammation, while promoting tissue regeneration utilizing an elegant, transgenic burn wound model.” The study measured the effect of photobiomodulation on the closure of third-degree burns over a period of nine days. The treatment triggered TGF‐beta 1, which stimulated various cell types involved in healing, including fibroblasts (the main connective tissue cells of the body that play an important role in tissue repair) and macrophages (immune cells that lower inflammation, clean cell debris and fight infection). The researchers also developed a precise burn healing protocol for photobiomodulation treatments to ensure additional thermal injuries are not inadvertently generated by laser use. The effectiveness of photobiomodulation in treating pain and stimulating healing has been documented in hundreds of clinical trials and thousands of academic papers. The therapy was recently recommended as a standard treatment for pain relief from cancer-associated oral mucositis (inflammation and lesions in the mouth) by the Multinational Association for Supportive Care in Cancer. To read the original article click here.

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Eliminate Toxic Debris From Your Body with THIS Incredibly Effective Therapy

AHA Publisher — Thu, 20 May 2021 07:00:26 +0000

Sima Ash via NaturalHealth365 – Far-infrared (FIR) radiation is a subdivision of the electromagnetic spectrum that has been investigated for biological effects with very encouraging results. I have clients who have added this modality as part of their overall treatment plan for everything ranging from autism to heart conditions. How does FIR work? The body experiences FIR wavelength energy as a gentle radiant heat that can penetrate up to 1.5 inches beneath the skin. An article published in Photonics & Lasers in Medicine states that FIR energy is sufficient to exert rotational and vibrational modes of motion in bonds forming the molecules (including water molecules) and resonate with our cells. FIR Saunas Improve MULTIPLE Cardiovascular Conditions FIR saunas are frequently used in Japan and Korea, where it is referred to as Waon therapy. Studies have shown that FIR saunas are particularly beneficial for chronic heart failure and peripheral arterial disease and have been shown to improve cardiac and vascular function and reduce oxidative stress in patients with chronic heart failure. In addition, German medical researchers concluded that just 1 one-hour session of FIR could significantly reduce blood pressure due to persistent peripheral vessel dilation. They also noted that blood viscosity was improved. That’s Not All! People With Arthritis and Type 2 Diabetes Can Also Benefit A study of patients with rheumatoid arthritis showed a reduction in pain, stiffness, and fatigue during infrared sauna therapy. In addition, far-infrared sauna was associated with improved quality of life in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The author concluded that the uptake in the use of infrared saunas is greater than the uptake of other lifestyle interventions. FIR Saunas Can Even Help Children With Autism, According to Study Many parents report that their children with autism seem to improve when they have a fever. An article published in Medical Hypothesis states that the release of the amino acid glutamine could be the reason for the improvement in autism symptoms. In people with autism, glutamine in the blood and brain is low, but during a fever, glutamine is released from skeletal muscles as provisional fuel, and the glutamine is metabolized by the intestines – just as if the amino acid had been ingested. The International Journal of Hypothermia derived the same conclusion. They found that a fever or hyperthermia may alter glutamate levels in the brain and therefore be able to impact the symptoms of autism. Working with this information, many physicians have incorporated FIR into their practice to help children with autism. Here Is How FIR Therapy Helps Reduce Toxic Burden and Achieve Optimum Health Our skin is a major elimination organ, but many of us do not sweat regularly. This could be due to insufficient physical activity, sun exposure, or wearing synthetic or tight-fitting clothing. Simply put, sweating is natural (and essential) for optimal health. Using FIR saunas helps restore skin elimination by helping the body eliminate toxic debris. In fact, FIR therapy was used as part of the protocol to help September 11th firefighters recover – after being exposed to toxic chemicals as part of the World Trade Center rescue and clean-up efforts. Exposure to solvents and other chemicals has been linked to psychiatric disorders, including depression, mood disorders, anxiety, and detoxification has helped many people recover. In my practice, we use CEASE therapy, a detoxification protocol that has been assisting children with autism and other disorders for many years. Far-infrared sauna therapy could be a wonderful adjunct for many who have trouble with detoxification and need help assisting their bodies to remove toxic debris. As a precaution, please check with your healthcare practitioner before starting FIR – as there are protocols that need to be followed, including specific vitamins and minerals before and after sauna sessions and, of course, assuring that enough water is consumed during the session. It is also important not to bring in reading materials or plastic containers, for your water, into the sauna as those can contain the exact chemicals you are attempting to detox. About the author: Sima Ash of Healing 4 Soul is a clinical and classical homeopath and certified clinical nutritionist who utilizes a unique approach pioneered by Tinus Smits, M.D. called CEASE therapy. CEASE treatment aims to systematically detoxify the causes of illness, leading to step-by-step improvement and restoration of health in the individual. For additional information, please visit – Healing4Soul.com. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov NIH.gov TownsendLetter.com NIH.gov To read the original article click here. For more articles from NaturalHealth365 click here.

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Green Light Therapy Benefits for Migraines & Pain Management

AHA Publisher — Fri, 13 Nov 2020 08:00:44 +0000

Jillian Levy, CHHC via Dr. Axe – Light therapy involves the use of different wavelengths of light in order to have therapeutic effects related to pain, sleep and mood regulation. Green light therapy is one emerging light treatment that may be capable of decreasing migraine intensity and pain due to conditions such as fibromyalgia. While more research is needed to confirm how effective green lighting is, there’s also reason to believe it may help improve sleep quality and moods. The best part? Studies so far suggest that use of green light exposure is very safe, especially compared to long-term use of pain-killing medications, and it’s affordable too. What Is Green Light Therapy? Green light therapy is exposure to green light, which is a narrow wavelength of light. Green light has been shown in some research to be less aggravating than other light wavelengths (such as blue, red, white and amber light) that can sometimes trigger migraines and possibly worsen pain. Does light therapy really work? According to a Harvard Medical School specialist in headache research named Rami Burstein, treatments using green lighting can be helpful for many people who deal with headaches and other types of chronic pain. Burnstein is responsible for helping create the “Allay lamp,” which uses a narrow band of green light that seems to have soothing effects on the brain. Ordinary green light bulbs emit light in a wide wavelength range between 490–565 nanometers. To be even more effective, Bernstein believes that green light must be in an even more narrow band of light between 510 to 530 nanometers. In order to benefit from green lighting, someone must be exposed to this specific, narrow band of green light from a special lamp or device, ideally while also blocking out other light wavelengths that can have the opposite effects on pain-modulating systems in the brain. Benefits for Migraines and Pain What is green light therapy used for? Recently it’s been recommended most for people who suffer from migraines. Research suggests that photophobia, or extreme sensitivity to light, is involved in more than 80 percent of migraine attacks, yet green lighting seems to have a neutral or positive effect on the brain compared to other light wavelengths. How does green light help migraines? Light affects things like your pain tolerance and mood via the visual cortex by activating receptors in the eyes that send signals to the brain. Light wavelengths travel from the retinas in the backs of the eyes into the part of the brain where neurons are found that can contribute to issues including headaches. Because certain types of light, including blue and white light, can trigger headaches in some people some who are sensitive to these wavelengths, some now choose to wear migraine glasses to block some light from reaching their eyes, while others experiment with using green light exposure to counteract the effects of other types of light. Certain studies suggest that green light seems capable of impacting pain-modulating systems in the brain, which can help prevent exacerbation of migraine headaches and potentially ease photophobia among migraine sufferers. It’s thought this is due to green light producing smaller electrical signals in the eyes and brain compared to other wavelengths. Experts also believe that green lighting can stimulate release of endogenous endorphins and stimulate the cannabinoid system, which results in improved moods and higher pain tolerance. What else can green lighting be used or? Other potential uses of green light therapy include: Helping reduce discomfort among people dealing with chronic pain, such as those with fibromyalgia. Potentially having mood-boosting effects and even helping treat depression. Contributing to better sleep (unlike blue light emitted from electronic devices, which tends to disrupt sleep). Supporting skin healing. According to the Allay Lamp website, “green light targets dark circles, pigmentation, broken capillaries and sunspots, and as a result could have an impact on skin pigmentation. It also calms irritated or over-stimulated skin.” Research is still underway to determine how different forms of light, including green, blue and white light wavelengths, may impact the amount of pain people feel after surgery or when dealing with fibromyalgia. So far, the few studies that have been done using humans and animals suggest that green light entering the eyes may help people cope with pain better, although there’s still lots more to learn. An ongoing 2018 randomized, clinical trial involving fibromyalgia patients and those with regular migraines is being conducted to determine whether the use of LED green light strips at home every day for three months can have positive effects on pain and quality of life. The investigators’ hypothesis is that participants exposed to green and blue light will have less use of analgesics and will have better life quality. According to researchers involved in the study: investigators have shown green and blue Light emitting diode, (LED) light produced antinociception (analgesia) and reversed neuropathic pain associated with several models of chronic pain… the analgesic effects seen are mainly due to systemic effect through the visual system. Preliminary experiments on rats suggest that this effect is mediated through the endogenous opioids and cannabinoid system. Green light also seems to have a beneficial effect on sleep and moods, according to studies done by Steven Lockley, Ph.D., a researcher in the Division of Sleep Medicine at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. How often should you do light therapy? This is still being determined based on going study results. Some people have reported using green light devices when they feel a migraine coming on, while others take preventive measures and choose to use one daily for about an hour or more. In the clinical trial mentioned above, patients with pain are being treated with green light by sitting in a dark room for two hours daily over the course of three months. Other Complementary Therapies If you’re someone who struggles with intense headaches, recurring aches and pains, or depression, some of these complementary therapies are likely to be beneficial: Consider light-blocking glasses — While exposure to natural lightbenefits most people, such as by helping them maintain normal vitamin D levels and by promoting synthesis of the “feel good” neurotransmitter serotonin, some people may be sensitive to bright light and experience headaches as a result. Special types of light-blocking sunglasses may be helpful in this case. You can look for migraine glasses sold online or ask your doctor for a recommendation. Avoiding headache triggers such as bright lights indoors, loud noises, dehydration, over-exercise and sleep deprivation is also important for managing symptoms. Red light therapy — Depending on the cause of someone’s pain, red light therapy may help reduce discomfort by decreasing inflammation and promoting healing. Red light is a low-light wavelength that penetrates through the skin and is thought to naturally jump-start the process of tissue recovery and other forms of rejuvenation. It’s now being used to reduce swelling and chronic joint disorders; promote healing of wounds, deeper tissues and nerves; and treat neurological disorders and chronic pain. Stress reduction — Chronic stress can worsen muscular tension, headaches and sleep quality. However, there are many steps you can take to keep stress under control. Here are some stress-relieving activities to experiment with: Keeping a journal to identify patterns and track symptoms. Exercising daily. Getting enough sleep each night, and sticking to a regular sleep schedule. Relaxing before bedtime by taking a warm bath, reading, stretching, taking a walk outside or listening to soothing music. Avoiding too much caffeine and alcohol. Trying meditation, breathing exercises, yoga and tai chi. Visiting practitioner who specialized in massage therapy or biofeedback therapy. Risks and Side Effects The use of green lighting to help prevent and treat pain seems to be relatively low-risk and is also somewhat affordable compared to many other treatments. It’s possible to buy green light bulbs for under $10 at hardware stores, although they aren’t as effective the Allay lamp mentioned above, which costs about $200. According to some experts who have been involved in preliminary studies, practically no one has reported any negative side effects so far due to green light therapy. However, at this time most experts feel that reliable research on the topic of green light is still lacking. Green light therapy still needs a large, placebo-controlled trial before it will be prescribed by most doctors, but preliminary findings do seem promising. Conclusion Green light therapy involves the use of green lighting, a narrow wavelength of light, that seems to help manage migraines and other types of pain. Studies conducted so far suggest that green light can reduce migraine/headache intensity, decrease chronic pain due to conditions such as fibromyalgia, and potentially increase positive emotions and sleep quality. For those who regularly deal with headaches, exposure to green lighting may soothe areas of the brain that make pain worse, while “migraine glasses” that block out disrupting light may also be helpful. This form of light therapy, which is considered to be very low-risk and affordable, also seems to have a wide variety of potential uses related to improvements in moods and decreased depression, as well as improvements in skin health.

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