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Eczema and pineapple juice
I suffer from a mild but recurrent form of eczema on my hands. When cutting up a pineapple, the juice made the irritated area sting and tingle. The next day, the irritation had disappeared, leaving the skin dry. This has happened several times since and I wondered if fresh pineapple is recognised as a cure for eczema?
I’ve never heard of pineapple as a cure for eczema but it does contain an active ingredient called bromelain which is a well known anti-inflammatory agent that is often used by athletes to treat injuries and relieve pain. It is also an excellent digestive aid, although this does not explain your experience with eczema - which may have more to do with vitamin C.
Pineapple juice (not chunks) is also a rich source of this water-soluble vitamin, which boosts the immune system to help the body resist disease and also plays a key role in the manufacture of collagen - the substance that binds the cells of the connective tissue together to give skin its elasticity. Vitamin C itself is fragile and easily destroyed by cooking, making juicing raw vegetables and fruits a better way of stepping up your dietary intake.
I have recently been recommended an eczema product that does not contain pineapple but which has proved very effective, especially with young children. SK Cream is produced by a family of organic farmers in Lincolnshire and has international word-of-mouth success. The organic formula includes chamomile, almond oil and beeswax and there is a lanolin-free version for those allergic to this substance. A 30ml jar costs £9.95 including p&p To mail order call 01526-832491 - but remember, this is a kitchen table business so be patient if the phone lines are deluged - which they will be.