Herbal Cures for Burns

Burns occur when the skin is exposed to heat, electricity, chemicals, radiation or UV rays from the sun. These injuries are classified by degree, with a first-degree burn being the least serious and affecting only the outer layer of skin. Second-degree burns extend to the second layer of skin and produce pain, redness and blisters. Third-degree burns, the most serious kind, affect both skin layers and may also injure the underlying tissue, muscle or bone. These burns require immediate medical attention and should not be treated with home remedies. For first- and second-degree burns, however, numerous herbal cures exist to speed healing and relieve pain.

Aloe Vera

A widely used home remedy for treating burns, aloe vera cream or gel applied to the affected area 3 to 4 times per day soothes pain and expedites healing. A systematic review published in the September 2007 edition of "Burns" found that aloe vera is an effective treatment for healing first- and second-degree burns. Researchers found that burn wounds treated with aloe vera healed approximately 8.79 days faster than untreated wounds. Use fresh aloe gel for the best results, or buy a commercial product with minimal additives.

Chamomile

When applied to external burns, chamomile is believed to relieve pain and speed healing. No scientific evidence exists to back this claim, but herbalists have recommended the herb for hundreds of years. According to the Reader's Digest Association in the book "The Healing Power of Vitamins, Minerals and Herbs," applying a chamomile tea compress provides quick pain relief and a reduction in inflammation. Make a burn compress by steeping 2 to 3 tsp. dried chamomile flowers in 1 cup of hot water for 15 minutes, straining and cooling in the freezer. Soak a clean cloth in the cold tea and apply directly to burns for 15 minutes at a time. Repeat as needed.

Calendula

The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends using calendula, also known as pot marigold, as an external treatment for burns. Purchase an ointment containing calendula and apply as directed, or make your own burn compress from dried flowers. Steep 1 tsp. dried calendula flowers in 1 cup boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes, then strain and cool. Soak a clean cloth in the liquid and apply directly to the affected area. Allow the compress to remain for at least 15 minutes each time and repeat as needed to relieve pain and inflammation.

Gotu Kola

Gotu kola (Centella asiatica) stimulates the growth of connective tissue in the skin, and may help facilitate burn wound healing. An animal study published in the June 2008 edition of "Planta Medica" found that madecassoside, the active ingredient in gotu kola, promoted significant wound healing activity. Researchers noted that the herb is useful in the successful treatment of burn injuries. In his book "Doctor's Guide to Natural Medicine," Paul Barney suggests using gotu kola for treating burns caused by scalding, explosions or electrical shock. To use, make a poultice by soaking a clean cloth in cold gotu kola tea, and then apply directly to the affected area.