Symptoms and relief

Our purpose is not to hinder the physiological processes of the organism. Ours is a holistic approach. An approach that encourages the ristoring of the physical balance, by facing the causes as efficiently as possible and by ensuring a fast relief of all the symptoms.

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Skin

The skin is one of the largest organs of the human body: in fact, if stretched out completely it can reach 2 square metres and in terms of weight it makes up 16% of the total body weight. Its main function is to protect organs and internal tissues from aggressions of the “world outside” and therefore constitutes a physical barrier covering the entire body surface. It plays a fundamental role in protecting the body from heat and cold (thermoregulatory function), from injuries and from aggressions of external pathogenic agents. Last but not least, it is seat of nerve endings of the sense of touch.

The surface of the skin is not uniform: it has a very complex design that varies due to the presence of parallel patterns along its surface that determine, particularly on the fingertips, typical figurations (called “fingerprints”) that vary from individual to individual. The skin is formed by two layers: the epidermis and the dermis. In the human species, skin colour depends on many variables (thickness of the corneous layer, level of blood perfusion, presence and optical absorption of melanin, vitamin A dimer, hemoglobin). For this reason, colour varies not only according to the ethnical group but also with individuals and, even though in small nuances, it also changes in different body regions of the same individual.

The epidermis is the outer part of the skin, formed by several layers of cells, of which the most external ones are basically dead but resistant to external agents. The principal functions of this layer of skin are: to form a physical barrier against external agents; prevent dehydration of the body; prevent penetration of bacteria or other pathogenic agents; protect the body from sunburns by means of special cells called melanocytes, which produce a protein called melanin, responsible for skin coloration; rapidly repair the skin in case of injuries.

The dermis is the layer right under the epidermis. Its principal function is to support and nourish the skin. In fact, it contains blood vessels carrying nutrients to the skin itself, as well as the sebaceous and sweat glands, in charge of regulating the body temperature; nerve endings that receive impulses coming through the epidermis; hair roots.

The skin is a very delicate organ that can incur several problems, either injuries or irritations. The most frequent are pressure sores, ulcerations, burns, injuries, bruises, erythema, abrasions, cuts, etc. The skin undoubtedly performs essential functions for the health and well-being of the entire organism: it is therefore important to maintain its integrity and functionality adopting correct hygiene habits that include specific cleaners and, in case of pathologic events, using appropriate natural remedies.

Dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin that can be caused by various factors. In any case, it can become chronic, leading to cyclic relapses. The different types of dermatitis can be classified as follows, according to triggering factors involved:

contact dermatitis
atopic dermatitis or eczema
serborrhoeic dermatitis

Contact dermatitis originates from an allergic reaction once the skin comes into contact with a certain substance (allergen). After initial contact with the specific allergen causing sensitization, immune cells react to subsequent similar circumstances by producting skin reactions.

Symptoms typical of dermatitis appear on the exact area where contact takes place between skin and allergen: erythema, itching and subsequently spots with vescicules, forming crusts after bursting. These symptoms can spread to other areas following contact with different body parts or as a result of scratching. There can be thickening of the skin and scales can also appear, with intensified itching.

Substances that in most cases are responsible for this type of dermatitis are the ones people tend to come into contact with most frequently every day, produced industrially (nickel, present in jewels, cobalt, contained in varnishes, nail polish, shampoo, balsam of Peru, used in perfumes, in certain topical medicines, in cosmetics and finally rosin, present in glue and varnishes). For instance, buckles, watches, buttons or substances such as colouring agents, fixing agents and other hair products, preparations for professional use. The skin reaction is characterized by a form closely replicating the area where penetration in the skin of the substance involved takes place: for instance, particles of nickel present in certain watches, imitation jewellery articles or other accessories, cause the typical silver aspect.

Atopical dermatitis, also called eczema, is an inflammatory disorder of the skin, the causes of which have not yet been fully clarified. What has so far been clearly pinpointed, however, is its allergic origin in individuals with a certain genetic predisposition, combined with environmental factors and mediated by antibodies sensitizing the skin and that can be associated to bronchial asthma, allergic rhinitis as well as urticaria.

The inflammatory condition causes intense itching, erythematous reddening with vescicules, erosions. The healing process commences when the vescicules burst and release an inflammatory liquid, often leaving the skin humid and exposed to environmental factors or to further microbial infections. Crusts develop at a later stage and scaling is also possible.

Atopical dermatitis can be caused by contact with irritant substances, by exposure to the sun, by intake of foodstuffs to which one is allergic or intolerant, by infectious agents, etc. and are mostly influenced by scratching that the patients is forced to by the intense itching.

It occurs fairly commonly in infants aged a few months, often confused with so-called crusta lactea (Seborrhoeic dermatitis) and can heal without any particular treatment after puberty or in adult age, although the skin changes aspect and becomes more sensitive to irritant substances. It mostly occurs on the skin of the face, neck, underarms, elbows, wrists, on the groin area, on knees and ankles. In other cases it may tend to become chronic and take on a cyclic trend that can be divided into three stages:

Stage 1: in newborn babies, after the third month, the disorder can last until the age of two;
Stage 2: in children aged 2 – 3 until the age of 12 – 13;
Stage 3: in adolescents and adults, it takes on a more serious character and can last until older age.

Seborrhoeic dermatitis is an inflammation of the scalp and manifests itself through greasy scales, erythema and irregular erythematous, yellow-pinkish patches, as well as intense itching. Subjects prone to developing this kind of dermatitis are typically patients who have had very evident follicular openings on the forehead, chest and scalp since puberty, as well as oily dandruff. It mainly affects the scalp, causing a patch around the root of the hair; however, if not properly treated it can cause complications in other body districts: for instance external otitis but also eczema around the navel, at occipital level or on the nape.

Treatment of dermatitis (and eczema) using conventional medicine

To provide relief from symptoms of dermatitis and eczema, conventional medicine resorts to the application of emollient and hydrating medicaments aimed at soothing the intense itching feeling and to avoid complications caused by scratching and resulting lesions; moreover, cortisone-based painkillers are administered. However, both remedies are not effective in solving this skin disorder in a permanent way, as they act on the symptom only; in particular, cortisone is not free from side-effects, as is it a powerful immunosuppressant and can therefore further weaken the organism’s natural defences, thereby contributing to the insurgence of secondary infections.

Given the possible allergic origin of dermatitis, conventional medicine resorts to the administration of antihistamine medicines in order to calm down the immune reaction against the allergen involved. This, however, entails the typical phenomenon of rebound as a side effect. According to conventional medicine, it can also be useful to resort to vaccination, which desensitizes the immune system by injecting the allergen causing the allergic reaction in gradually increasing doses.

This treatment is ineffective, too, since no vaccine can actually cure an allergy, but all it does is act on the symptoms, providing temporary, yet not complete relief. This is why it is so important to have a valid alternative available in the treatment of dermatitis, whatever the origin and nature of its symptoms.

Nature helps you in solving the problem of dermatitis or eczema.

A natural and effective approach

To solve the problem of dermatitis or eczema, a really valuable approach is required, combining specific plant active constituents with the extraordinary antimicrobial properties of Grapefruit Seed Extract.

GSE e dermatite ed eczema

Broad spectrum antimicrobial efficacy of Grapefruit Seed Extract (GSE) has been proven by Laboratories and Institutes worldwide: against hundreds of bacteria (both Gram+ and Gram-) and, for external use, at a concentration of 1,5% it has proven its strongest disinfectant power (higher than most kinds of commonly used antimicrobials). Additionally, it shows excellent antiviral properties.

Numerous testimonies confirm its validity and in terms of both efficacy and speed of action it remains unrivalled in nature. Moreover, as a “selective cleanser”, it does not have a negative impact on the physiological flora of skin and mucosae, preserving their essential, defensive functionality. GSE therefore represents a very valuable aid also in solving the problem of dermatitis.

Due to the above considerations, GSE therefore represents the cornerstone of an extraordinarily effective approach towards dermatitis and eczema, whatever the specific type. Its association with specific plant extracts enables to devise a remedy through a mechanism of action that provides for the following:

cleansing of areas affected by pyoderma and other delicate body parts;
antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, skin repairing, soothing, antipruriginous and analgesic action,
beneficial for the physiological functioning of the skin affected by dermatitis or eczema;
general (internal) systemic action with stimulating activity on the immune system.

This approach, combined with a healthy lifestyle (in terms of diet, but not only), includes the use of natural remedies that are well known in folk tradition and the efficacy of which in providing a definitive solution has been confirmed by recent studies.

1 - Cleansing of areas affected by pyoderma and other delicate body parts
Nature can help you with…

Grapefruit Seed Extract: with its bactericide property and antiviral, antifungal and antiparasitic activity, it carries out not only a protective and preventive action on particularly delicate areas of the skin, against aggressive external agents, but it can also be considered as a valid support in the treatment of several skin pathologies.

Its extraordinary antifungal activity against 100 strains of yeasts and moulds must be emphasized, including Candida albicans, responsible for mucosal infections and systemic disorders (pneumopathies, kidney disorders, etc.) in immune compromised individuals. Studies carried out by Dr Leo Galland in New York on chronic Candidiasis (both intestinal and systemic) have reached interesting and significant results: success in 99% of treatments effected (only two failures out of 297 cases), without any cases of resistance nor side-effects.

Rice bran oil: obtained through pressing of fresh rice bran, it is characterized by the high level of tocopherols and tocotrienols, as well as for its high oxidative stability. Main substances present are proteins, starches, amylopectins, essential fatty acids, minerals, vitamins, gamma oryzanol and inositol; it has refreshing, nourishing, emollient, antiseptic and astringent properties.

Icelandic lichen extract: lichens are twofold organisms. In fact, they represent a plant body consisting in the symbiotic association of a fungus and an algae. In Icelandic lichen, starches, mucilages and a series of acids called lichen acids have been isolated. The plant surely has specific, marked antimicrobial properties, principally due to the presence of a particular substance, namely a furan derivative called usnic acid. This ingredient has proven to exert an interesting antibiotic activity towards several groups of germs.

Sodium lauroyl sarcosinate: this is an extremely delicate cleansing agent (a surfactant), an irreplaceable element, ideal to cleanse delicate areas of the skin (face, nipples, etc.), particularly sensitive skin or affected by pathologies, i.e. cases requiring particular attention for the skin’s hydrolipidic film and physiology.

The ideal means to convey these elements is an extremely delicate cleanser, enabling targeted use on delicate areas such as the face, underarms and nipples. Daily use is recommended also as a preventive measure.

2 - For antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, skin repairing, soothing, antipruriginous and analgesic action, beneficial for the physiological functioning of the skin affected by dermatitis or eczema…
Nature can help you with…

Grapefruit Seed Extract: as already highlighted, results obtained regarding its antimicrobial efficacy, coupled with its harmlessness, once again confirm that it is the ideal remedy to solve the problem of dermatitis. Its synergy with specific plant extracts proves to be of great use, making the formulation even more effective and safe to use, even in cases where reddening is caused by irritative or allergic factors.

Echinacea: this plant has bacteriostatic and virustatic properties. In-depth studies have confirmed its anti-inflammatory, skin repairing properties, as well its inhibiting the hyaluronidase enzyme responsible for the polymerization of hyaluronic acid. Today its anti-inflammatory, cicatrizing and reepithelising activity in case of aftermaths of dermatological infections has been amply recognized.

Nymphaea: an aquatic plant that is particularly indicated for its anti-oedematose action also on delicate skins.

Peppermint Essential Oil: a precious element, appreciated for its disinfectant action against certain viruses and for its refreshing, analgesic properties.

Lithospermum erythrorhizon: this small, herbaceous shrub belongs to the Boraginaceae family and grows wildly in Asia and Australia. The phytocomplex is rich in naphthoquinones, the most active of which is Shikonine. In Chinese medicine, the plant is known as a remedy for topical use, indicated for skin problems. Clinical studies confirm such use, proving that the phytocomplex exerts an anti-inflammatory, antipruriginous and rehydrating activity.

Biosterine®: phytocompound consisting in the association of Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) and Sage (Salvia Officinalis) titrated at 40% in Rosmarinic Acid, with anti-inflammatory properties, as it inhibits proinflammatory mediators and the inflammatory cascade.

Carboxymethyl beta-glucan: deriving from fermentation, carried out by yeasts, of glucan polysaccharides extracted from cereals, it has regenerating, soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. For topical use, it protects from oxidative stress and stimulates proliferation of fibroblasts, crucial for tissue regeneration. Morever, it possesses non-specific immunostimulant properties, important for cicatrizing processes.

These natural plant ingredients are artfully combined in a dermatological gel.

3 - Should the skin problem affect a larger area…
Nature can help you with…

Grapefruit Seed Extract: results obtained from researches conducted to date indicate that this extract acts against around 800 strains of bacteria and viruses, around 100 strains of fungi and many single-cell parasites. No other known antimicrobial is capable of similar results. Dr J.A. Botine of the University of Sao Paulo in Brasil has tested and proved GSE’s total efficacy as a disinfectant (100%) compared to traditional substances (98%) and alcohol (72%).

All this explains why Grapefruit Seed Extract in powder is recommended by dermatologists worldwide for the treatment of the following problems: lesions of different nature (wounds, sores, scaldings, etc.), dermatitis, dermatosis, erythemas, diaper rashes (newborn babies, female genitals, etc.), mycosis of the skin and athlete’s foot. GSE is the real first aid for the skin.

Melaleuca Oil (Tea Tree Oil): its essential oil is a powerful antiseptic, natural antiviral and antifungal, therefore useful in curing severe and extended mycosis.

Rice starch and oatmeal, enriched with olive dry extract: powder as a supporting vehicle

The ideal vehicle to convey these elements is a dermatological powder, enabling easy, extended use while ensuring rapid absorption of the plant active ingredients. It is recommended to spread on the affected area two or three times a day.

4 - General (internal) systemic action with stimulating activity on the immune system.
Nature can help you with…

Grapefruit Seed Extract: the importance of strengthening the body’s natural defense system has already been underlined. The complex of beneficial bacteria present in our gastrointestinal tract represents the first line of the organism’s defense towards external aggressions.

There are several factors causing a diminution of beneficial colonies (unhealthy diet, intoxication, allergies, stress, etc.); if, as is often the case, this adds up to a therapy based on antibiotics, beneficial bacteria are destroyed, giving way to pathogenic microorganisms.

Once the first line of defence has been overcome, the enemy bacteria finds an immune system that, if under massive attack owing to the lack of a “filter”, gives way to the onset of diseases. With its selective bactericide action, GSE can be useful as a preventive measure, since it acts as a “garbage collector” in the intestinal tract. In fact, elimination of pathogenic microorganisms encourages the development of physiological bacterial flora, thus improving our natural defenses.

Echinacea: capable of slowing down the spread of pathogenic germs, triggering a defensive mechanism against such germs, while simultaneously activating a regenerative activity of the tissues. For this reason, Echinacea preparations are considered effective in the treatment of septic conditions and in infectious pathologies.

Rhodiola rosea: it has the ability to increase resistance of the organism to toxins; it increases the level of enzymes, of RNA and of proteins and is therefore capable of reducing recovery times resulting from fatigue or prolonged illnesses.

Uncaria: besides stimulating the immune system and is capable of repairing both single and double stranded DNA, stimulating the proliferation of lymphocies and increasing the number of white blood cells.

Tea tree oil (melaleuca alternifolia): with amply demonstrated antiviral properties, it is also effective against bacteria and fungi, as well as being a powerful stimulant of the immune system.

The ideal form for intake of such ingredients is represented by a food supplement in swallowable tablets. For children, the drinkable version is recommended, containin the same ingredients as the tablets.

The association of the above-described ingredients, essential to ensure a definitive approach to solve the problem of dermatitis and eczema, can be further supported by specific remedies indicated for:

Rebalancing the intestinal flora while strengthening the organism’s natural defences: for adults, single use vials with patented measuring cap, based on probiotics (B. bifidum, L. acidophilus, L. bulgaricus), fructo-oligosaccharides, GSE, Uncaria and Morinda citrifolia (Noni); for children, single use vials with patented measuring cap containing probiotics (B. infantis, B. longum, L. Rhamnosus), fructo-oligosaccharides, GSE, Astragalus and Uncaria tomentosa.

DIETARY ADVICE TIMING REQUIRED FOR THE DIET: AT LEAST 40 DAYS

FOODS TO AVOID

Simple sugars (white sugar, glucose, sucrose, fructose, maltose, sorbitol, mannitol, lactose,
galactose, maple syrup, agave juice, honey, molasses)
Foods rich in yeasts and moulds (i.e. all fermented foods: brea, pizza, sweets, bakery ware in general, cheese, vinegar, beer, alcohol, wine, soy sauce)
Refined cereals (pasta, white bread and glazed rice), dry fruit
Milk and dairy products
Packaged, preverved, refined foods and drinks
Foodstuffs to which you are intolerant or allergic

FOODS TO CONSUME WITH EXTREME CAUTION

Unleavened bread or with sourdough leavening
Potatoes and maize
Sugary fruit, whole cane sugar (only if necessary)

RECOMMENDED FOODS

Seasonal vegetables, legumes (if well tolerated)
Whole grain cereals and their derivatives, possibly gluten free ( rice, quinoa, millet, tapioca)
Whole grain pasta, yet moderately: maximum twice a week (spelt, kamut… )
Fish, organic meat
Oleaginous seeds (nuts, almonds, sesame, sunflower)
Seed oil and olive oil from first cold pressing

WATER

Drink at least two litres of water, at ambient temperature, daily, choosing water with fixed residue levels below 50 mg/L and with pH lying between 6 and 7.

GENERAL ADVICE

Avoid use of medicines unless strictly necessary (in particular antibiotics, cortisone-based medicines and contraceptives). Do not use clothing in synthetic fabric. Do daily, non agonistic physical exercise (at least a 20-30 min.walk), avoid anxiety and stress as much as possible.