Natural Cures For Molloscum
If you’ve spotted small, smooth, dome-shaped bumps with a dimple in the center on your child’s skin, chances are you’re dealing with molluscum contagiosum. You are not alone! This viral skin infection, caused by a poxvirus, is incredibly common during childhood. While it can spread easily through skin-to-skin contact, shared items like towels or toys, or environments like swimming pools and daycares, the condition itself is harmless in healthy kids. The bumps typically resolve on their own as the immune system clears the virus—though this can take anywhere from a few months to a few years!
Children with dry or sensitive skin, eczema, or a compromised skin barrier are often more prone to molluscum, as the virus thrives when the skin is irritated. While it can be frustrating to watch the bumps spread or linger, the body will eventually resolve the infection on its own. In the meantime, there are ways you can support your child’s overall health, minimize discomfort, and reduce the risk of spreading the virus further.
Best Tips to Support Healing
Minimize Added Sugar
Sugar can suppress immune function, making it harder for the body to fight off viral infections like molluscum. Aim to reduce processed and sugary foods in your child’s diet, such as candy, soda, and baked goods. Instead, focus on immune-supporting whole foods like fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats (think avocado, nuts, and olive oil).
Focus on Immune Support
Immune nourishing support like zinc, elderberry, and pre-and post-biotics can be incredibly helpful in boosting the immune system to clear a molluscum infection more efficiently. Our favorite immune support that combines all of these things is Needed Immune Support!
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Apple Cider Vinegar Baths
Adding 1 cup of apple cider vinegar (ACV) to a lukewarm bath can help temporarily shift the skin’s pH, creating an environment less favorable for the molluscum virus. Have your child soak for 10-15 minutes, but avoid this if they have broken skin, as ACV can sting.
Keep Nails Short and Clean
Molluscum bumps can be itchy, and scratching is one of the fastest ways the virus spreads. Keeping your child’s nails short and clean can help prevent viral particles from getting trapped under the nails and spreading to other parts of the body. Encourage gentle handwashing as part of their routine.
Support Skin Barrier Health
Dry, irritated skin is more susceptible to molluscum, so focus on keeping the skin hydrated and protected. Use gentle moisturizers regularly, especially after baths, and avoid harsh soaps or scrubbing. For kids with eczema, managing flare-ups is especially important to prevent spreading.
Prioritize Rest and Stress Reduction
A strong immune system is key to clearing molluscum naturally, and sleep plays a huge role. Make sure your child is getting enough rest each night and encourage downtime to keep stress levels low. Practices like family yoga, deep breathing, or even a quiet bedtime routine can help.
Deep Breaths and Patience
While molluscum contagiosum can feel like a drawn-out challenge, supporting your child’s body through diet, lifestyle, and natural remedies can make a big difference in the healing process. Remember, this is a harmless virus for healthy kids, and with patience, good hygiene, and immune support, their body will clear the bumps over time.
As always, keep an eye out for any signs of infection, like redness, swelling, or pus, and reach out to your pediatrician if you’re concerned. You’ve got this, mama—trust the process and focus on supporting your little one’s overall health.
