Selected active naturals for atopic dermatitis: Atopic Dermatitis Part 1.

The desire for naturally derived agents is a growing trend for patients, physicians, and pharmaceutical companies. Studies indicate that complementary and alternative medicine is often used by patients and parents of children with atopic dermatitis, not necessarily with beneficial results. A half-dozen natural agents (ie, topical agents: coconut oil, colloidal oatmeal, sunflower oil, mustard oil, glycerin, and oral Chinese herbal therapy) are discussed because they have become popular for their expected activity in the therapy of atopic dermatitis. A critical review of the published literature on these agents is presented with specific focus on potential such side effects as hepatotoxicity with Chinese herbals.