Cellulitis is a skin condition caused by a bacterial infection of the dermis and subcutaneous tissue. The condition is characterized by pain and swelling of the skin tissues. It is important to get conventional medical treatment for cellulitis as soon as possible, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Antibiotics are the standard treatment for cellulitis, and alternative therapies may be used in conjunction with conventional treatment to help ease symptoms. However the University of Maryland Medical Center states that the efficacy of alternative therapies has not been proven and should not be used in place of conventional treatment.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture, a traditional practice in Chinese medicine, may help improve cellulitis by boosting the immune system. However, the University of Maryland cautions that there have been no scientific investigations into the efficacy of acupuncture for cellulitis treatment. Acupuncture involves inserting very fine needles into energy points in the body called meridians. This helps free up the body's natural flow of energy that's needed for health and well being. Patients considering acupuncture should consult their physicians and seek out a qualified acupuncturist.
Homeopathy
Homeopathy has been used as an alternative therapy for hundreds of years, and is based on the philosophy that "like cures like." According to the Society of Homeopaths, homeopathic treatments are safe to use alongside traditional medicine.There are a number of remedies that a homeopath may prescribe for patients with cellulitis, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. These include sulfur to ease burning and irritated skin, Apis Mellifica for puffy, swollen skin and Rhus toxicodendron to help ease itching and restlessness. While homeopathy may help ease symptoms, few studies have proven its efficacy as a medical treatment for cellulitis.
Herbal Treatments
Herbals remedies may help alleviate symptoms of cellulitis, though there is no scientific proof that they can treat cellulitis directly. Pycnogenol, an extract from the bark of the pine tree, may help to promote skin health, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. Yarrow may alleviate skin infections and inflammation, while tea tree oil, which can be applied directly to the skin, has antibacterial properties. Other herbs that may prove helpful include calendula flower and fenugreek seed. A doctor should be consulted before you take herbal supplements, to ensure they do not interact adversely with antibiotic treatment.
