Herbal Cures: Diaper Rash

A diaper rash develops when an infant's skin is exposed to feces or urine, particularly when a diaper change is delayed. It can also result from chafing caused by rough diapers. Avoid using commercial baby wipes and soap; the wipes contain alcohol, which irritates the skin even more, as does soap. Instead, rinse the infant's bottom with a saline solution (1 tablespoon salt to 1 quart boiled water) at room temperature. Gently dry, then apply a zinc oxide lotion to create a barrier against wetness. Airing a baby's bottom can also help prevent diaper rash: The less time an infant's skin is covered by a diaper, the better. Wait for nap time, then place an unfastened diaper under the sleeping child. Or you can put the baby on towels placed atop a waterproof sheet.

Despite the numerous varieties of diapers to choose from, today's parents still wonder whether to use cloth or plastic. If you choose cloth, follow the advice of old-time folk practitioners and add one ounce white vinegar to one gallon water during the laundry's final rinse phase (some say that doing this helps balance the pH of the cloth diapers with that of the baby's skin). Another tip: Let cloth diapers dry in the sun; ultraviolet rays act as a sterilizer, which can eliminate bacteria living on the cloth. Babies with diaper rash are susceptible to yet another problem: the fungus candida, signaled by a fiery red rash with welldefined borders. This condition should be treated with prescription drugs.

Herbal Remedies

Fenugreek This spice can be applied directly to the skin, like baby powder. Or you can mix it with a little water to form a paste. Apply the paste sparingly to affected areas. Prolonged use could irritate the skin.

Bag Balm Originally used to soften cows' udders, Bag Balm has become popular among mothers as a preventive treatment for diaper rash. Today it may be found as readily in pharmacies as in farm-supply stores. After rinsing the baby's bottom with cool water, dry, then apply the balm directly to the skin.