Boils, skin infections also known as furuncles, begin as a painful infection in the hair follicle and can grow larger than a golf ball. Boils most commonly occur on the face, neck, buttocks and groin, although they may appear anywhere on the body. In most cases, a boil forms a white tip, also known as a head, and drains on its own within about a week. Very large boils, however, can last even longer and may require medical intervention to drain. Several natural home remedies may expedite the draining process and aid healing. If the boil does not improve within seven days, however, consult a physician immediately.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil, a natural antiseptic and antibiotic derived from the leaves of the Australian tea tree, may help relieve discomfort and speed the healing of boils, according to the Mayo Clinic. Mix 6 drops tea tree essential oil with 1 cup warm distilled water. Soak a clean cotton cloth in the solution and hold it directly on the boil several times a day. Tea tree oil may cause allergic reactions in some individuals. If you experience any problems or discomfort, cease using the oil immediately.
Chamomile Tea Compress
In the book "1,801 Home Remedies," the Reader's Digest Association recommends applying a warm chamomile tea compress to boils. Moist heat will bring a boil to a head and chamomile tea contains an anti-inflammatory chemical known as chamazulene. Steep 1 tsp. dried chamomile flowers or 1 chamomile tea bag in 1 cup boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes, and then strain. Soak a clean cotton cloth in the tea, wring out any excess and apply the compress directly to the boil for 10 to 15 minutes. Repeat several times a day as needed.
Turmeric Paste Poultice
Turmeric, a cooling herb, may help reduce the inflammation of a boil and prevent recurrences. In his book "Alternative Cures," Bill Gottlieb recommends applying a paste made from turmeric powder to bring boils to a head quickly. Combine 1 tsp. turmeric powder, 1 tsp. Epsom salts and 1 tsp. distilled water in a small mixing bowl. If the mixture appears too thick, add more water until you achieve a paste-like consistency. Before going to bed, spread the paste on a piece of cheesecloth or thin cotton and apply directly to the boil. Cover the cloth with plastic wrap to prevent staining your bed linens, and then secure the dressing in place with a bandage. Leave the poultice on overnight and repeat for up to two nights as needed.
Cayenne Pepper Extract
Cayenne pepper fluid extract may help bring a boil to a head and speed the drying and healing process, according to John Heinerman in his book "The Health Benefits of Cayenne." Cayenne contains anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, and also helps relieve pain. To use, apply the extract directly to the boil several times a day as needed. If you have sensitive skin, dilute 2 to 3 drops cayenne extract in 1 tsp. vegetable oil before applying. Commercially prepared capsaicin cream may provide similar results when used as directed.
References
- Aetna Intellihealth: Boil and Carbuncle
- MayoClinic.com: Boils and Carbuncles Alternative Medicine
- "1,801 Home Remedies: Trustworthy Treatments for Everyday Health Problems"; Reader's Digest; 2004
- "Alternative Cures: More Than 1,000 of the Most Effective Natural Home Remedies"; Bill Gottlieb; 2008
- "The Health Benefits of Cayenne"; John Heinerman; 1999
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