Researchers have created a gel to treat eczema, a chronic inflammatory skin disease that causes itching, redness plus dry and cracked skin.
The gel, A-1 Cool, is made using licorice and beeswax. The active ingredient in licorice is an anti-inflammatory while beeswax keeps skin hydrated and prevents bacterial growth. The gel is also composed of wild yam and 11 other compounds.
It is hoped that this gel will moisturize the skin and reduce itching.
Tests will soon be performed on 30 patients in Jerusalem. The Daily Mail reports the study participants will receive treatment twice daily for five days. Researchers will then assess their condition. The newspaper reports "the severity of symptoms will be evaluated on a points scale from zero to three."
If tests are successful, this licorice-based gel might be available within a year.