Bentonite Clay Carbuncle Remedy

Overview

A carbuncle is a cluster of boils, or small, infected, pus-filled bumps beneath the skin. They occur frequently on the back of the neck, shoulders and thighs and heal more slowly than boils do, in part because the infection in a carbuncle is usually deeper and more severe than in the case of a single boil. While there's no scientific evidence to prove the efficacy of bentonite clay as a carbuncle remedy, folk wisdom relates that it's effective at drawing out toxins or infection and reducing inflammation.

Step 1

Fold a piece of clean, un-dyed wool or cotton in half at least once, or as often as necessary to form it to the right size to cover the affected area. Place the folded cloth on an even surface, with what will be the "inside" of the compress---against your skin---facing up.

Step 2

Use a small spatula or your hands to apply a layer of clay about 1 inch thick, evenly across the cloth. The layer of clay should be large enough to completely cover the carbuncle you're treating. If the clay you're using is in powder form, mix it with just enough body-temperature water or olive oil to form a thick paste before spreading it.

Step 3

Clean the affected area gently with body-temperature water, then place the compress you've made on top of it, clay side against the skin. Wrap a bandage around the compress and your limb, if necessary, to hold it in place, then cover the bandage with a piece of plastic wrap.

Step 4

Leave the compress in place until it feels dry and warm, usually between two and three hours. Once you notice the sensation of dryness or warmth, you can change the poultice out for another one---or change it after six to eight hours if you haven't noticed dryness or warmth. Discard the used clay and rinse out the cloth before reusing it.