Use Effective Home Remedies for Boils

Boil indicates a skin infection. It is caused by the bacteria ‘Staphylococcus’. This bacteria enters the skin through the hair follicle and causes infection. Initially the skin turns red and tender. Later it forms like a pimple and gets filled with pus. Pus is the white blood cells and blood the body sends near the boil to kill the germs. Boils are common and can be commonly found on the face, neck, armpits and buttocks.

A boil is also known as furuncle. Furuncles in clusters are called carbuncle. These last longer than a single boil. Carbuncles indicate deeper infection in the skin. Another type is the Cystic Acne. When the excess oil secreted by the glands traps dirt and bacteria, it causes a cyst. This cyst acne is different than the normal acne.

Low immunity can cause a person to get boils. A cut, wound or injury can cause the skin to get infected if not treated properly. Other causes are foreign body, splinter, harsh chemicals, allergies, stress and anxiety. Shaving can result in ingrown hair which can cause boils. People with diabetes, deficiencies, poor hygiene and obesity issues are more prone to this condition.

The symptoms are redness of skin, swelling and pain. Formation of pus and red tender skin are also some symptoms.

Antibiotic creams and pills are available for the treatment. For severe cases, surgery is an option where the doctor makes an incision and drains out the pus. Home remedies may be used to quicken the healing process. Some of the home remedies for boils are:

1. Compress: Soak a cloth in warm water. Squeeze the water and apply on the furuncle. This helps to draw out the pus.

2. Betel Leaves: Warm a betel leaf. When it becomes soft and warm, coat it with castor oil and place on the infected area.

3. Bitter gourd: Drink the juice of bitter gourd regularly.

4. Garlic: Try to include garlic in your regular diet. You can crush garlic cloves and apply the juice also. This helps it to ripen.

5. Echinacea: Intake of Echinacea boosts the immunity of the body and aids in fighting skin infections.

6. Neem: Neem is very beneficial for any skin condition. Neem leaves can be crushed and applied directly on the area.

7. Parsley: Pour hot water over parsley and keep for some time. Strain, wrap in a cloth and apply.

8. Turmeric: Turmeric is a very effective home remedy. Turmeric can be directly applied on the area. It has anti inflammatory properties. Turmeric is an anti septic too. It helps the pus to drain out.

Do not ignore small cuts and wounds. Treat them properly so that they do not get infected further and form boils. Practice proper hygiene. Wash clothes, towels and linen of the affected person regularly. Do not squeeze or burst the boil, it may spread the infection. Eat a healthy diet and cut out the junk food. Drink lots of water and try to exercise daily to remove the toxins in the body. Avoid tea and coffee and do yoga to cleanse the body and lead a stress free life.