Cellulitis is a condition in which a bacterial infection causes skin inflammation and, in some cases, the connective tissues under the skin. When this condition is severe, the lymph nodes can also be affected. The legs are most often affected, but cellulitis can also affect the face, arms and scalp. Antibiotics are the most common method of treatment. However, some patients seek ways to complement the antibiotics they use and consider herbs. Those considering herbs should always talk to their doctor.
Goldenseal Root
Goldenseal root, when applied directly to the affected area of the skin, may help alleviate skin inflammation and skin infections, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Goldenseal should not be consumed by nursing or pregnant women or those with liver disease, high blood pressure or heart disease. This herb can increase a person's sunlight sensitivity and irritate the mouth, vagina, skin and throat. Goldenseal should not be mixed with blood-thinning medications or tetracycline antibiotics.
Fenugreek Seed
Fenugreek seed is purported to help alleviate skin inflammation and infection when applied topically. When administered orally, side effects include bloating, gas and diarrhea, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. When applied to the skin, skin irritation can occur. Fenugreek seed should not be mixed with blood sugar medications, warfarin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, aspirin, heparin, ardeparin, danaparoid, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, dalteparin or enoxaparin. Those with clotting disorders, bleeding disorders or diabetes should avoid this herb.
Echinacea
In addition to strengthening the immune system, echinacea allegedly helps in treating inflammatory skin conditions, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Those with tuberculosis, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, autoimmune diseases, leukemia, connective tissue disorders, HIV or AIDS, or liver disorders should avoid this herb. Echinacea can cause the tongue to temporarily feel tingly and numb when taken by mouth. Those taking econazole or immune system-suppressing drugs should avoid echinacea. Side effects can include fever, vomiting, stomach pain, sore throat, headache, dizziness, disorientation, muscle aches, nausea, unpleasant taste, diarrhea, dry mouth, insomnia and joint aches. When applied to the skin, itchiness, redness or rash can occur.
