Boils, also known as skin abscesses, can be incredibly painful and uncomfortable. These red, swollen bumps are caused by bacterial infections that affect hair follicles or oil glands. While medical treatment may be necessary in severe cases, there are several natural home remedies that can help alleviate the pain and promote healing.
We will explore some effective and easy-to-use remedies that have been passed down through generations.
Boils typically appear on the face, armpits, inner thighs, and buttocks as a result of blockage of pour or follicles by dead skin and other debris.
In the battle with the bacterial infection, a lot of white cells from the blood die causing large amounts of puss, swelling, redness, and pain in varying degrees. This forms an acute boil on the surface of the skin.
Once you understand the type of boil on your skin anywhere on the buttocks, inner thighs, or armpits, you can get rid of them at home.
Don’t try to lance or open it because it may spread infection and cause scarring.
The following home remedies are very helpful in healing boils.
1-Warm Compress to Fight Bacteria
One of the simplest and most effective ways to treat boils is by applying a warm compress. The heat helps increase blood circulation to the affected area, speeding up the healing process.
An acute boil that pops up suddenly can be healed by rushing extra blood to the infected area. Although the immune system is already rushing blood to the spot that is not sufficient. So, additional blood is required which can be accomplished by arm compress.
This works only for the boil that pops up suddenly and is not a recurring one.
- Immerse a washcloth in hot water ( as hot as you can tolerate without burning your skin)
- Squeeze and twist the cloth to remove the water
- Place the cloth on the boil for 20 minutes
- If it loses heat then repeat the process to complete 20 minutes
Do the hot compress for 2-3 times a day for 2 days. This should kill all the bacteria. It is now time to remove the puss.
Now you divide this 20-minute routine into two parts of 10 minutes each. First, immerse the washcloth in hot water and follow the above steps for 10 minutes. Then immerse another washcloth in ice-cold water, squeeze and twist the cloth to remove the wear, and place it on the boil for 10 minutes.
Repeat the cycle 3 times. That means a total of one hour. Do it twice a day. The puss will be drawn out without pricking in a couple of days.
Alternatively, you can use commercially available hot water bottles/bags.
2 - Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is well-known for its antiseptic and antibacterial properties, making it a great natural remedy for boils.
Dilute a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil, and apply it directly to the boil using a cotton swab. Repeat this process 2-3 times a day until the boil starts to shrink and heal.
3-Turmeric and Vinegar Paste
Turmeric is a powerful spice with anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the swelling and pain associated with boils.
Turmeric is used in the treatment of many conditions and infections. It is consumed internally as well and in some cases, it is applied externally. Because of its multiple healing benefits, it is used in many regular food recipes, particularly in Asian cuisines.
Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent with very strong antioxidant properties.
We are going to use it externally on the boil to heal it.
- Take half a teaspoon of turmeric powder
- Add vinegar to make a thick paste
- Apply the paste to a boil and keep it there for 30 minutes.
- Clean it with warm water
You can use it on the skin area which can be kept uncovered. Otherwise, the strong color of turmeric can spread on your clothes. Therefore, boils on your face and thighs if you wear shorts are safe places. Even with some extra care and sleeveless clothes, you can use it on boils on your armpits. If you can afford to stay bare bottoms for 30 minutes then you can apply on your boils on buttocks also.
4-Epsom Salt
Taking an Epsom salt bath can provide relief from the pain and discomfort caused by boils.
Though it looks like a salt it is not really a salt. It is a naturally available pure mineral compound magnesium sulfate.
It possesses many medicinal properties that benefit the skin and nerves. It helps reduce inflammation and improves muscle functions and the nervous system. It is a very popular ingredient for a relaxing bath.
Epsom salt is a very potent external treatment for boils. It helps fast healing and removal of puss. The best way to use it on the boil is as under.
- Take a teaspoon of Epsom salt in a bowl
- Add two teaspoons of warm water to make a thick solution
- Dip a cotton pad in the solution and place it on the boil
- Keep it on the boil for 20 minutes
- Wash the skin and clean it dry
Do this twice a day for 2-3 days. Epsom salt will make the boil to make a head and drain automatically.
5- Garlic
Garlic is known for its potent antibacterial properties, making it an excellent remedy for boils.
- Crush a few garlic cloves and apply the paste directly to the affected area.
- Cover it with a clean cloth and leave it on for a couple of hours.
Garlic may cause a slight burning sensation, but it helps to draw out the infection and promote healing.
Remember the boil must open on its own. All the above remedies are to help the boil to produce a head fast so that it can open its own. When it opens let the pus drain. Clean and wash the area with warm water and apply antiseptic cream.
Conclusion
Dealing with boils can be a frustrating experience, but these natural home remedies can provide much-needed relief and aid in the healing process. Remember to consult a healthcare professional if the boil worsens or if you have recurring boils. Combine these remedies with good hygiene practices, such as keeping the affected area clean and avoiding tight clothing, to prevent future outbreaks. With patience and the right remedies, you'll be on your way to saying goodbye to painful skin abscesses for good.
If the boil doesn't heal in 3-4 days or even if the head doesn't appear then consult a doctor.