Herbs for Skin Sores

Herbs for Skin Sores
Photo Credit calendula image by cherry from Fotolia.com

A skin sore is a wound, injury, or infected or diseased patch of skin. Causes of skin sores include bedsores, herpes outbreaks, sunburn blisters and rosacea attacks. These disorders share symptoms, including inflammation, broken skin and potential infection. Many herbal treatments can help manage these symptoms. Consult a qualified medical provider prior to implementing an herbal medical plan.

Calendula

The medicinal use of calendula, or marigold, dates back to the 12th century, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Calendula originated in the Mediterranean region but now grows worldwide. Calendula may help heal inflammatory, viral and bacterial skin conditions. Calendula is believed to speed wound healing, possibly because it increases blood flow to the affected area. Calendula skin treatments include ointments, washes and the essential oil added to carrier products, such as almond oil.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil comes from the Melaleuca alternifolia tree native to Australia. A steam-distillation process extracts the oil primarily used for medicinal purposes. The oil's antimicrobial and soothing properties may aid the healing of skin disorders. Products that contain tea tree oil include ointments, creams, soap and lotions.

Chamomile

The medicinal use of chamomile dates back thousands of years to the ancient Egyptians, Romans and Greeks. German chamomile is used to treat a variety of skin conditions. Chamomile, as an ingredient in creams and ointments, purportedly soothes irritated skin and prevents microbial infections. The herb's soothing action may help heal eczema, according to UMMC.

Lavender

Lavender originated in the mountains of the Mediterranean region, but grows today in a wide range of areas. Lavender's medicinal history reveals its association with soothing and cleansing. The name comes from the Latin word lavare, meaning "to wash." Lavender baths are said to be soothing to the skin and the spirit. The herb's essential oil heals fungal infections, such as those caused by Candida albicans; soothes eczema; alleviates acne; and prevents infected wounds, according to UMMC.

References

Article reviewed by Christine Brncik Last updated on: Jan 22, 2011

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