In a search for non-drug treatments for chronic childhood eczema, some physicians are turning to bleach for relief, but natural remedies may help, too.

Researchers from the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine found diluted bleach baths provided relief of eczema-induced rash and reduced flare-ups in patients with moderate or severe cases of the disease which is also known as atopic dermatitis.

The finding is hailed as significant because typical treatments involve a prolonged use of oral and topical antibiotics for staphylococcal infections which often accompany eczema. However, antibiotic therapy can lead to bacterial resistance.

Similarly, steroid creams over time lead to skin thinning.

For those who may not want to use bleach, there are herbal supplements that can provide relief from the scratching, scaling and chafing.

Some studies have found that feeding infants at high risk of eczema with probiotics was significantly more effective than placebo at preventing the condition, according to Altmedicine.about.com.

The same source suggests gels and creams made from herbal extracts of chamomile, licorice, and witch hazel have been shown to alleviate symptoms.

Others have also extolled the antiseptic and soothing properties of honey.