Itching is a common symptom of diabetes, especially when a person’s blood sugar levels are not well controlled. High blood sugar levels can cause dry skin, which can lead to itching. Additionally, diabetes can also cause nerve damage, known as diabetic neuropathy, which can result in itching and tingling sensations in the skin.
To alleviate itching associated with diabetes, it is important to maintain good blood sugar control through proper diet, exercise, and medication. In this article, we will explore natural remedies for diabetic itching.
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. One of the most common symptoms of diabetes is itching, which can be caused by a variety of factors, including high blood sugar levels, nerve damage, and poor circulation. If you’re experiencing diabetic itching, you may be wondering what natural remedies are available to help alleviate your symptoms. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best natural remedies for diabetic itching.
Keep Your Skin Moisturized
One of the simplest and most effective ways to relieve diabetic itching is to keep your skin moisturized. Dry skin can exacerbate itching, so it’s important to use a high-quality moisturizer regularly. Look for a moisturizer that contains natural ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or aloe vera, which can help soothe and hydrate the skin. Apply your moisturizer after bathing and throughout the day as needed to keep your skin soft and supple and avoid fungal infection.
Use Oatmeal Baths
Oatmeal baths are another great natural remedy for diabetic itching. Oatmeal contains compounds that can help reduce inflammation and soothe irritated skin. To make an oatmeal bath, simply grind up a cup of oatmeal in a blender or food processor and add it to your bathwater. Soak in the bath for 15-20 minutes, then rinse off parts of the body with not-so-hot water. You can also try using oatmeal-based soaps or lotions to help relieve itching.
Try Essential Oils
Essential oils are another natural remedy that can help alleviate diabetic itching. Some of the best essential oils for itching include lavender, tea tree, and peppermint. Lavender oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce itching and redness, while tea tree oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help prevent infections. Peppermint oil has a cooling effect that can help soothe irritated skin. To use essential oils, dilute a few drops in a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil and apply it to the affected area.
Use Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a natural remedy that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, including itching. ACV contains acetic acid, which can help reduce inflammation and soothe irritated skin. To use ACV for itching, mix equal parts water and ACV and apply to the affected area with a cotton ball. You can also add a cup of ACV to your bathwater to help relieve itching all over your body.
Drink Plenty of Water
Staying hydrated is important for overall health, but it can also help alleviate diabetic itching. Drinking plenty of water can help flush out toxins and keep your skin hydrated, which can reduce itching. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water per day, and try to avoid sugary drinks like soda and juice, which can exacerbate diabetes symptoms.
Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise is another natural remedy that can help alleviate diabetic itching. Exercise can improve circulation, which can help reduce itching and promote healing. It can also help regulate blood sugar levels, which can help prevent complications associated with people with diabetes. Aim to exercise for at least 30 minutes per day, five days per week, and choose activities that you enjoy, such as walking, swimming, or yoga.
Conclusion
Diabetic itching skin conditions can be a frustrating and uncomfortable symptom of diabetes, but there are many natural remedies available to help alleviate your symptoms without negative side effects. By keeping your skin moisturized, using oatmeal baths, trying essential oils, using apple cider vinegar, drinking plenty of water, and exercising regularly, you can help reduce itching and promote overall health. As always, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider before trying any new remedies or making changes to your diabetes treatment plan.
If you enjoyed this article, you may also want to read this article on Natural Remedies to Control Diabetes and Keep Your Blood Sugar in Check.
*This information is not intended to serve as a substitute for professional medical or dietary advice tailored to individual needs.
Dr. Kimberly Langdon has been an MD for 31 years, board-certified obstetrician/gynecologist with 19-years of clinical experience. She graduated from The Ohio State University College of Medicine, earning Honors in many rotations. She then completed her OB/GYN residency program at The Ohio State University Medical Center, earning first-place accolades for her Senior Research Project and Score of 98th percentile on a National Proficiency Test.
During her clinical career, she delivered over 2000 babies and specialized in minimally invasive procedures, menopause, endometriosis, menstrual disorders, and polycystic ovarian syndrome. After retiring from clinical practice, she founded a medical device company to commercialize her two patented and four patent-pending medical devices for both life-threatening and non-life-threatening infections.
