Tea for Eczema: Best Types, How to Use, Effectiveness & Safety Guide

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes dry, itchy, irritated skin. While medical treatment is often essential, many people turn to natural remedies to help manage flare-ups—and one of the most popular is tea. Whether consumed or applied topically, certain teas contain antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and soothing properties that can support skin health and reduce irritation.

Teas like chamomile, green tea, rooibos, and turmeric have been used in traditional medicine for centuries to calm inflammation, support immunity, and soothe sensitive skin. Today, scientific research is increasingly backing these benefits, making tea a holistic, gentle option for some people living with eczema.

Best Teas for Eczema Relief (Top Options & Why They Work)

Some teas are more beneficial for eczema than others due to their anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and skin-soothing properties. Here are the most effective options:

1. Chamomile Tea

• Chamomile is widely known for its calming effects, both for the mind and the skin. It contains flavonoids like apigenin, which help reduce inflammation and irritation (1). Chamomile tea bags are also commonly used for soothing topical compresses.

2. Green Tea

• Green tea is rich in polyphenols, particularly EGCG, which help lower inflammation and protect the skin barrier. Studies have shown that topical green tea extract may improve eczema symptoms by reducing redness and irritation (2).

3. Rooibos Tea

• Caffeine-free and rich in antioxidants, rooibos contains aspalathin and nothofagin—compounds known for anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects (3). Many people with sensitive skin find rooibos gentle and calming when consumed regularly.

4. Turmeric Tea

• Turmeric contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound (4). Regular consumption may help reduce internal inflammation that triggers eczema flare-ups. Turmeric tea with ginger or black pepper may enhance absorption.

5. Oolong Tea

• Oolong tea has shown promise in some clinical studies. Research published in the Archives of Dermatology reported that oolong tea consumption helped reduce itching and inflammation in patients with eczema when consumed daily over a few weeks (5).

How to Use Tea for Eczema: Drinking vs. Topical Application

Tea can support eczema relief when sipped or used directly on the skin. Here’s how:

1. Drinking Tea for Internal Healing

Internal inflammation, gut imbalance, and stress are common eczema triggers. Drinking tea targets the root causes by:

• Reducing oxidative stress
• Balancing immune response
• Supporting gut and liver health (important for skin detoxification)

How Much to Drink: 1–3 cups per day, depending on tea type and tolerance.

2. Topical Use: Tea Baths, Compresses, and Sprays

Chamomile, green, and rooibos teas are ideal for skin application.

i. Tea Compress:

• Brew 2–3 tea bags in 1 cup of water
• Cool and apply using cotton pads for 10–15 minutes

ii. Tea Bath:

• Add 4–6 tea bags to a warm (not hot) bath
• Soak for 10–20 minutes to relieve itching and dryness

iii. Tea Skin Mist:

• Brew tea, cool completely, and pour into a spray bottle
• Mist affected areas 1–2 times a day

3. DIY Green Tea & Oat Soothing Paste (For Flare-Ups)

• Brew strong green tea
• Mix with colloidal oatmeal into a paste
• Apply for 15 minutes, rinse with cool water

Possible Side Effects and Who Should Avoid It

Although tea is generally safe, it may not suit everyone with eczema:

• Skin sensitivity: Some individuals may react to topical tea use, especially chamomile. Always do a patch test.
• Allergies: People allergic to ragweed, daisies, marigolds, or chrysanthemums should avoid chamomile.
• Caffeine sensitivity: Green and oolong teas contain caffeine, which may worsen anxiety or sleep issues—both are eczema triggers.
• Staining: Turmeric tea may temporarily stain skin or fabrics.

If symptoms worsen after use, discontinue and consult a healthcare provider.

Other Natural Remedies That May Help Ease Eczema

While tea can support relief, pairing it with other gentle natural methods may offer better results:

• Colloidal Oatmeal Baths: Helps soothe itching and repair the skin barrier.
• Aloe Vera Gel: Hydrates and calms inflamed skin.
• Coconut or Jojoba Oil: Moisturizes and supports the lipid barrier.
• Honey (Manuka): Antibacterial and healing when applied as a thin layer.
• Probiotics: May help if eczema is triggered by gut imbalance.

These remedies work best alongside a proper moisturizing routine.

When to See a Dermatologist (Medical Treatment Options)

Tea alone is not a cure for eczema. If symptoms persist, worsen, or cause infection, medical care is needed. Dermatologists may recommend:

• Topical corticosteroids for flare-ups
• Prescription non-steroidal creams (e.g., tacrolimus, pimecrolimus)
• Oral antihistamines for itching
• Biologic treatments for severe cases (e.g., dupilumab)
• Phototherapy for chronic eczema
• Using tea can complement—not replace—medical treatment.

Science-Backed Insights on Tea and Skin Health

Research supports the idea that anti-inflammatory teas can benefit eczema:

• A Japanese study on oolong tea showed that 63% of eczema patients experienced improvement after drinking it daily for one month (5).
• Green tea polyphenols have been shown to strengthen the skin barrier and reduce inflammatory skin responses (2).
• Chamomile has been compared to mild hydrocortisone cream in some studies for soothing dermatitis (1).

These findings suggest tea can be a helpful, supportive remedy when used consistently.

Tea can be a valuable natural ally for people with eczema, especially when inflammation, stress, or gut imbalance plays a role. Whether consumed or used on the skin, certain teas have research-supported benefits that can soothe irritation, reduce flare-ups, and support overall skin health. While tea is not a cure, it can be part of a holistic eczema care routine when paired with moisturizing, lifestyle adjustments, and medical guidance when needed.