Burns - Treatment and Herbal Remedies
Heat , friction and chemicals can all burn or scald the skin. Many burns result from accidents at home , and prompt first aid can mean the difference between rapid recovery without scarring or further damage to the skin. After applying standard first aid, try natural treatments to soothe discomfort and promote healing.
Fast action is essential for both major and minor burns. You can safely self-treat small burns that affect only the top layer of skin. Carry out first aid as described in the box below. Deeper or more extensive burns and those caused by electricity need emergency medical attention.
Treatment – After first-aid treatment , you can let minor burns heal by themselves , but the following may help.
Aromatherapy: Apply lavender oil to the burn and cover it with gauze, secured at the edges with tape. Reapply the oil every 2 hours for 24 hours, without removing the gauze. If the burn has not then healed, apply six drops of lavender oil and two of geranium oil mixed with one teaspoon of grapeseed or sweet almond oil. Repeat four times daily until healed.
Did you know the ancient Egyptians valued leeks for their ability to heal burns. Although other burn remedies are today considered better , it is now known that leeks do possess significant antibiotic properties.
Herbal remedies: Apply one of the following:
- Aloe vera gel
- St John’s wort oil
- Calendula (marigold) ointment
- A compress soaked in diluted witch hazel or cooled tea made from chamomile, marigold, elderflowers or chickweed (or use a face washer soaked in whole milk)
- Cooled, strained goldenseal tea
- A few drops of Echinacea tincture added to distilled water.
Homeopathy
- Apply Urtica ointment or tincture to burns that do not blister.
- Take Cantharis by mouth for burns that blister.
Flower essence: Take Rescue Remedy to counter emotional shock of the burn.
Get medical help right away if :
- A burn covers more than five centimeters.
- A burn is deeper than the top layer of skin.
- A severe burn affects the mouth or throat.
- There is pus or increasing swelling or redness.
- The burn was caused by an electric shock or by chemicals.
First aid for minor burns |
|
Add this page to your favorite Social Bookmarking websites
| < Prev | Next > |
|---|
