An infection in a hair follicle or oil-producing sebaceous gland creates a boil when it works its way to the skin's surface. The most common pathogen is Staphylococcus aureus. Also called furuncles, boils are tender, red, pus-filled eruptions that usually appear on the scalp, buttocks, face or underarms. Associated with a lack of hygiene and poor dietary habits, they are common among children, diabetics and those with compromised immune systems. Most boils open, drain and heal without treatment. Holistic remedies may hasten this process. A boil that is large or causes fever should be evaluated by a health care professional.
Warm Wet Soaks
Warm compresses soaked in a solution of saltwater and applied for ten minutes every four to six hours will help the boils open and drain faster, according to the Mayo Clinic. Epsom salts solution may be substituted for saltwater. Furuncles are contagious; pus may spread bacteria to the surrounding skin and to anyone who comes in close contact with the infected person. Careful handwashing as well as laundering of cloth compresses, linens and towels can prevent the spread of infection. It is also important to keep draining boils clean by washing the area with soap and water at least twice a day.
Fenugreek
According to Drug Information Online, the herbal spice fenugreek has long been used for as a folk remedy for boils. Fenugreek oil has a maple-like flavor and the seeds contain beta carotene, zinc and vitamin C, as well as protein, calcium, potassium and essential fatty acids. Nutritionist Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," suggests that flax and fenugreek seeds, simmered together and mashed, can be used as a compress for boils.
Herbs
The Mayo Clinic reports that tea tree oil may have antiseptic, antibiotic and pain-relieving properties when applied directly to boils, but warns that allergic skin reactions may occur in sensitive individuals. This extract of the Australian tea tree contains terpinenes and camphor and should not be taken internally. Balch recommends adding ten drops of tea tree oil to one quart of warm water and applying a compress soaked in this solution to the boil for 30 minutes three or four times a day.
Echinacea leaves and roots may stimulate white blood cell production to fight inflammation and bacterial infections. Balch suggests using a freeze-dried form or alcohol-free extract for internal use not longer than two weeks. People who are allergic to ragweed, or who have autoimmune disorders, should not use echinacea.
Nutritional Considerations
Zinc and antioxidants such as vitamins A, E and C are necessary for proper immune system function. Carotenoids are fat-soluble pigments found in yellow, red, green and orange vegetables and fruits that the body can convert to vitamin A. These pigments are conserved in the body tissues by vitamins C and E. Vitamin C is abundant in all fresh fruits and vegetables, particularly citrus. Vitamin E is found in dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach and chard, as well as sunflower seeds and almonds. Zinc is needed for maintenance of vitamin E levels in the bloodstream and for the proper absorption of vitamin A. Foods high in zinc include pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, mushrooms, squash and spinach.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Boils and Carbuncles
- Drug Information Online: Fenugreek
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis Balch, CNC, 2004
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