Molluscum Contagiosum
🦠Molluscum contagiosum (MC) is a common viral infection of the skin caused by a poxvirus (molluscum contagiosum virus). Lesions only affect the outer layer of the skin and look like pearly/skin colored bumps with small dimples or indents (known as umbilication) in their centers. ➡️See Slides below which further explain what MC is, how it spreads, how long it lasts, stages of MC, and and traditional treatment options. Since the virus is so superficial (located in the epidermis of the skin), it takes a hot minute before your body sends your immune system over to combat the virus and build antibodies. This is why the stage where the lesions get red hot and inflamed is a positive sign- the beginning of the end!
🥊Immune system activated!
Molluscum contagiosum (MC) is an infection that just does not go away quickly, which is both frustrating and exhausting for both parents and kiddos. An individual’s immune response influences the number and size of the lesions, itching, and infection duration. This is why the infection varies from one kiddo to the other and why immune support is imperative in the fight.
👉A healthy diet packed full of nutrient dense foods and antioxidants- research indicates that brightly colored vegetables and fruits boost immunity better than most supplements so “feed the 🌈 !”
👉Avoid inflammatory foods (artificial flavors, dyes, refined sugars/grains, processed meats, packaged and boxed foods, inflammatory oils- omega-6 fatty acids are associated with increased inflammation and are found in most vegetable oils, including sunflower, corn, and canola oils)
👉Good sleep hygiene- sleep has a big influence on immune function
👉Stress reduction- chronic stress can negatively alter immune system responses
👉Daily exercise - helps to boost immune system function by raising levels of infection-fighting white blood cells and antibodies, increasing circulation, and decreasing stress hormones.
It’s also important not to pick, scratch, or shave MC bumps because this can cause the bumps to worsen and spread to other parts of the skin (auto-inoculation). Avoiding harsh skin care products and rather wash skin with warm water and use a natural clean soap, such as glycerin soap, goat’s milk soap or soap made with tallow.
Check out the following slides ➡️ to see the natural internal and external remedies I have collected from parents and scouring the literature over the years:
1️⃣Diet
2️⃣Internal antiviral herbs for immune support
3️⃣ Real fermented apple cider vinegar
4️⃣Colloidal silver, Tea tree oil and iodine (Zymaderm), Cheliderm homeopathic remedy cream
5️⃣Neem oil
6️⃣Lemon myrtle