Impetigo is a common, contagious skin infection that most often affects children, and it's more common in kids with eczema, psoriasis, and other skin problems.
It’s caused by Staphylococcus or Streptococcus bacteria. Antibiotics are a standard conventional treatment, but integrative approaches can help with healing and prevention. Here are some key natural strategies you can try:
Good Hygiene and Skin Care
Keep the affected areas clean and dry. This is critical for managing the infection. Wash the skin gently with mild, antibacterial soap and water to prevent the infection from spreading. It's also important to wash hands frequently, especially after touching the infected skin. Also, avoid sharing towels or bedding with others to prevent further transmission of the infection.
Boosting the Immune System (THE RIGHT DIET AND SUPPORTING GUT HEALTH)
Strengthening the immune system is a key focus in integrative care.
A diet rich in immune-boosting nutrients, and avoiding inflammatory foods like processed sugars and refined carbohydrates can help prevent flare-ups and improve recovery outcomes.
Since the gut is integral to immune function (up to 70-80% of the immune system is located in there), resolving gut imbalances, using the right probiotics, and a gut healthy diet rich in fiber, fruits, and vegetables are key steps to take. Avoiding processed junk foods and excess added sugar can help lower inflammation and support healing, too.
SupplementS
The right supplements can help boost the immune system and improve skin health. Work with your practitioner to make sure what you use is appropriate for your child. You can also get my proven step-by-step roadmap along with supplements and dosing to build your child’s protocol, and appropriately support your child’s immune system.
Topical Strategies
Taking care of your child’s skin the right way from the outside in is important as well in order to appropriately, safely and effectively support their skin barrier and prevent infection. My free guide, Ditch The Itch will help you know what to try, what to avoid, and give you strategies you can use now to help.
Stress Reduction
Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, making the body more vulnerable to infections. This makes managing stress important!
Prevention
Once impetigo has cleared up, taking steps to prevent future infections is important. This includes using the strategies listed above.
Conclusion
Even though conventional treatments for impetigo, like antibiotics, are often necessary, natural and integrative interventions can help and promote faster healing. As with any health issue, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any treatment on your own, particularly for children, to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your child.
Reference
Rupa Health. "Integrative Dermatological Approaches to Impetigo." Rupa Health, https://www.rupahealth.com/post/integrative-dermatological-approaches-to-impetigo. Accessed October 10, 2024.