Over one million Australians are itchy, exhausted and sleep disturbed.

Imagine having inflamed areas of red skin and an uncontrollable urge to itch. It causes misery to both parents and children, itching, scratching, mood change and sleep disturbance which lead to tiredness and distress.

The condition is eczema (atopic dermatitis) and it effects over one million Australians. Sadly 10-20% of infants suffer with many experiencing symptoms as early as 12 months of age.

The incidence of eczema in children in western countries has increased over recent decades, suggesting environmental factors such as irritants and allergens can trigger an outbreak.

An all-natural steroid free cream for the relief of eczema has been developed locally and was launched during National Eczema Week 2002 by Australian company Medihoney Pty Ltd.

Medihoney, the company that developed antibacterial honey for wound care, has produced Medihoney Intensive Dermatological Eczema Cream to help treat the more than one million Australians who suffer from eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis and dry skin.

Chief Executive Officer, Mr Anthony Moloney said “Medihoney’s Eczema Cream was designed to help people who need to treat large areas of skin, sensitive areas such as the face, use for prolonged periods, use on broken skin, or for those who are particularly anxious about what to use on children”.

Medihoney Intensive Dermatological Eczema Cream is formulated with three clinically tested natural active ingredients to provide antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and anti-itch properties.

“We have combined the potent benefits of Antibacterial honey, Aloe Vera and German Chamomile extract in a natural formulation which can give patients, caregivers and parents a new alternative for the relief of eczema and dermatitis” said Mr Moloney.

In recent years research has shown that skin colonisation by bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus (Golden Staph) is a characteristic feature of eczema.

These bacteria in some cases release superantigens which
can exacerbate and prolong the inflammation associated with eczema.

Reducing the bacterial load on the skin and helping to restore skin barrier can help the treatment of eczema. Medihoney Intensive Dermatological Eczema Cream contains antibacterial honey, important when itching can lead to broken skin which needs more care.

In the past such symptoms have often been treated with higher doses of steroids with health professionals not always realising the relevance of these skin-invading bacteria.

Mr Moloney also said “These skin conditions can be difficult to live with and hard to treat, as what works can be different for each person, knowing you can now choose a natural formulation to soothe irritated skin is hopefully a relief".

Medihoney Intensive Dermatological Eczema cream is available in a 50g tube from all leading pharmacies throughout Australia and on-line with a recommended retail price of $9.90.

Now the honey that fights bugs may be able to soothe your skin and help you sleep at night.