Boils are a nuisance, but are fairly harmless and can be treated effectively at home.
Other than being a nuisance, boils are fairly harmless and can be treated effectively at home.
The primary cause of boils is bacterial infection by Staphylococcus. The bacteria penetrates the body when a hair follicle is disturbed, when nicks or other small cuts occur in the skin. (1) According to WebMD, it travels all the way down to the hair follicle. (2)
People suffering from health problems are more susceptible to skin infections. Diabetes, a weakened immune system, as well as poor nutrition and and hygiene top of the list of health issues that can lead to skin infections, as reported by WebMD. (3)
Not to worry, though. Although unsightly and painful, boils can be treated quite easily. In fact, they can be treated using a few home remedies that actually work!
Turmeric
Turmeric is a traditional and herbal medicine, as well as a natural blood purifier. (4)
In addition,, turmeric also possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Thus, turmeric is an effective ingredient for treating boils. (5)
You will need::
- Turmeric powder
- One cup of water or milk
- Ginger (optional)
Steps to follow:
- Prepare one glass of water or milk.
- Boil with one teaspoon of turmeric powder.
- Consume this mixture three times daily for about five days.
- Alternatively, mix fresh ginger and turmeric powder into a paste.
- Apply to the affected area and use a clean cloth to cover it.
Bottom-line: Using turmeric to treat boils is a convenient and relatively inexpensive strategy..
Warm compresses
Easy and very effective, warm compresses work wonders for boils.
The warm compress leads the boil to soften and burst by forcing the bacteria out of the surface. This speeds up the process of healing and reduces pain. (6)
You will need:
- Water (as much as required)
- Salt
- Soap
- Washcloth
Steps to follow:
- Wash and clean the affected area using warm water and mild soap.
- Add the salt to the warm water.
- Stir the mixture well.
- Soak the washcloth in this mixture and wring.
- Place the compress on the affected area.
- Gently press against the affected area for about ten to fifteen minutes.
- Repeat three to four times a day.
- Continue for about seven to ten days for effective results.
Bottom-line: Warm compresses have yet another beneficial use in treating boils.
Potatoes
Potatoes are high in calcium, phosphorus, manganese, vitamins, iron and magnesium.
Potatoes also have alkaloids, flavonoids and tannins that promote skin health. In the treatment of boils, potatoes provide significant pain relief through their anti-inflammatory properties. (7)
You will need:
- Potato
- Knife
Steps to follow:
- Use the knife to slice a potato.
- Place the thin slices on the boil area.
- Leave the slices on the affected area for about seven minutes.
- Replace the slices with fresh ones.
- Repeat the process twice a day for effective results.
Bottom-line: Potatoes are known for their cosmetic benefits for such problems as under-eye circles and now, for the treatment of boils.
Onions
High in flavonoids and potassium salts, onions can reduce pain. (8)
The components of onions have anti-inflammatory properties. Onions also possess antifungal, analgesic and antiseptic properties that prevent boils in the first place.
Interestingly, red onions have the ability to eliminate toxins and help reduce skin inflammation. Wound disinfection is also done with the help of onions. (9)
Materials required:
- Onion
- Cloth
- Water (optional)
Steps to follow:
- Slice an onion.
- Place slices on the boil area.
- Use the cloth to cover it.
- Use fresh slices every three to four hours.
- Repeat every day for best results.
- Alternatively, the onion can be cut into pieces.
- Boil the pieces until the water level reduces to half.
- Gently apply this liquid on the boil area.
Bottom-line: Due to their healing properties, onions are rather handy treatments that should not just stay in the kitchen.
Tea tree oil
Boils and skin abscesses can be healed through the regular application of tea tree oil.
The oil possesses antifungal, antiseptic and antibacterial properties. Regular application of tea tree oil speeds the healing process. The discomfort caused by boils is also greatly relieved. (10)
You will need:
- Tea tree oil
- Cotton
Steps to follow:
- Dip a cotton swab in tea tree oil.
- Dap it gently on the boil.
- Repeat a few times daily.
- Continue for several days until the desired result is achieved.
- Note: performing a patch test rules out possible skin irritation.
Bottom-line: A less commonly known type of oil, tea tree oil, is an effective home remedy for boils. The best part is that it reduces the discomfort resulting from boils.
Milk
Milk causes the pus to be drawn from the boils. (11)
Milk also reduces the healing time and provides immediate pain relief.
Materials required:
- Milk
- Salt
- Flour
- Water
Steps to follow:
- Heat the milk.
- Slowly add the salt.
- Add the flour and stir well.
- Apply to the boil area.
- Leave it until it is dry.
- Use a soft towel to wipe it off.
- Use clean water to rinse the skin.
- Repeat the process two to three times a day.
Bottom-line: Milk tends to be a higher priced product in many countries. Nevertheless, it is worth the relief it provides for boils.
Black Seed
One of the most popular remedies for skin infections, including boils, is black seed.
Black seed provides medicinal benefits such as pain relief for boils. (12)
Materials required:
- Black seeds
- Black seed oil (optional)
Steps to follow:
- Grind some black seeds into a paste.
- Apply the paste to the affected area.
- Alternatively, gently rub black seed oil onto the boil area.
- In addition, half a teaspoon of the oil can be added to one cup of hot or cold drink and consumed.
- Drink two times daily for several days for the best results.
Bottom-line: Black seeds can easily be ground into a paste and applied directly to a boil. This makes themit an even more effective remedy than products that can only be sliced and rubbed on the affected area.
Parsley
Parsley causes the boil to burst sooner, without spreading the infection. (13)
As with most remedies on this list, parsley also possesses antibacterial and antifungal properties. However, it also possesses antioxidant properties. Through regular application, inflamed or irritated skin is soothed. (14)
You will need:
- Parsley leaves
- Cloth
- 2-3 cups of water
Steps to follow:
- Boil the leaves in water for a few minutes.
- Wait for them to cool.
- Use a clean cloth to wrap the leaves.
- Apply the pack to the boil area.
- Leave it there for two to three hours.
Bottom-line: One sure way of containing the infection while treating boils is through the use of parsley.
Nutmeg
Nutmeg is a weapon in the fight against bacterial infections. (15)
Nutmeg stimulates blood circulation and possesses anti-inflammatory properties. These aid in relieving the pain and the swelling due to boils. (16)
You will need:
- Ground nutmeg
- Water or milk
Steps to follow:
- Heat the water or milk.
- Mix with ground nutmeg.
- Stir well.
- Consume regularly for best results.
Bottom-line: Nutmeg is another product that can effectively be used as a home remedy for boils. It requires minimum preparation to be ready for application.
Final Note
According to the Mayo Clinic, it is essential that you do not attempt to prick or squeeze a boil. Doing so will definitely spread the infection. If a boil is very painful, it is always wise to consult a doctor.
Under normal situations and with first-stage boils, these home remedies can be highly effective. You don’t have to empty your pockets to enjoy an effective home treatment.
