Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection caused by the poxvirus, commonly affecting children and immunocompromised individuals. It's also more common in kids with eczema, psoriasis, and other skin problems. It spreads through direct contact with infected skin or contaminated surfaces.
Conventional vs. Functional Medicine: Conventional treatments include topical creams, cryotherapy, and curettage, while a functional medicine approach looks to address root causes that can contribute to susceptibility and healing, using more natural interventions.
Immune Support: Strengthening the immune system is critical. The best place to start is with improving the diet, particularly incorporating immune-boosting nutrients, ensuring adequate hydration (kids should drink at least one 8oz glass of water per year of age daily, and under 1 year old/when they start eating solids they can have sips of water), and minimizing inflammatory, processed junk foods in the diet.
Gut Health: 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.
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.
Topical Remedies: 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.
Lifestyle Changes: Proper hygiene practices, including frequent hand washing and avoiding sharing towels or clothing, can prevent the spread of Molluscum. Managing stress is also because stress can negatively affect the immune system.
In summary, a functional medicine approach focuses on addressing the root causes and supporting the body’s natural healing process through diet, supplements, gut health, and lifestyle modifications.
Reference
Rupa Health. Integrative and Complementary Approach to Molluscum Contagiosum. Rupa Health. https://www.rupahealth.com/post/integrative-and-complementary-approach-to-molluscum-contagiosum#:~:text=Functional%20Medicine%20Treatment%20for%20Molluscum%20Contagiosum. Published September 13, 2022. Accessed October 10, 2024.