The Best Natural Scar Treatments

The Best Natural Scar Treatments
Photo Credit flesh wound image by Allyson Ricketts from Fotolia.com

The website MamasHealth.com describes scar tissue as the fibrous mark that remains as a result of damaged tissue. Scar tissue can form internally and externally, with external being most obvious to public observation. The extent of the scar depends entirely on the size of the wound, location, the person's age, skin type and heredity factors.

Nutritional Supplements for Scarring

Nutritional supplementation is known to be effective in promoting the body's healing response and eliminated scar tissue. "The Real Vitamin and Mineral Book," recommends 400 to 800 IU of vitamin E per day to promote wound healing. For internal scars associated with surgery or severe trauma oral consumption will lessen the threat of scar formation. For external scarring, puncturing the capsule and massage the oil directly over the scar. This will promote healing and reduce the scar's visibility. Vitamin C is an essential element for growth and repair of all body tissues. A recommended 5,000 to 10,000 mg daily intake is necessary for efficient cartilage repair.

Herbal Scar Remedies

For skin repair and scar elimination, herbs are very effective. For older scars, "Encyclopedia of Natural Healing," advises massaging the scar on a daily basis with aloe vera gel. Scars resulting from surgical operations heal faster and with less noticeable remains when a liniment composed of calendula extract and a base cream is applied to the scar. A member of the marigold family, calendula contains high levels of plant-based antioxidants known as flavonoids. These flavonoids helps protect the skin from free radical damage. The extract of horsetail, when consumed in a tea is very effective for internal tissue repair. External preparation consists of applying a poultice daily to the wound. Horsetail contains high levels of silica, essential for building and repairing tissues.

Homeopathy

Homeopathy consists of administering minuscule dosages of an active ingredient to stimulate the body's healing process and promote a healthier and more balanced internal chemistry. "The Family Encyclopedia of Homeopathic Medicine" lists remedies for the treatment and healing of scars. Arnica, effective in treating painful scars, also speeds up the healing process. Arnica is to be prescribed at a 5 C grain, taken twice daily. For a slow-healing process when the wound does not appear to be closing, a 5 C grain of calendula taken two times per day is recommended. A 5 C grain of graphites twice daily is effective for treating and healing old scars. Graphites can also be utilized to prevent the onset of infection resulting from a current wound or a surgical procedure.

References

  • Mamashealth.com: Scar Tissue
  • "The Real Vitamin & MIneral Book"; Shari Lieberman, Ph.D.; Nancy Bruning; 1997
  • "Encyclopedia of Natural Healing"; Siegfried Gursche, MH; 1997
  • "The Family Encyclopedia of Homeopathic Medicine"; Eric Meyer; 1993

Article reviewed by Allen Cone Last updated on: Sep 26, 2010

Must see: Photo Galleries

Member Comments