Impetigo is an extremely contagious skin infection caused by bacteria. It is common in infants and children, but adults can also acquire this infection. Impetigo affects only the top layers of skin, causing the eruption of tiny red sores that ooze and crust over. It spreads via contact with either the fluid or crust on the sore. There are some herbs that may help fight the infection, but if it spreads or does not clear up, you quickly should seek medical advice from your physician.
Causes of Impetigo
The most common sites for impetigo are around the mouth and nose. The infection is caused by two species of bacteria: Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. Lately, MRSA, or methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, has also come into play as a causative agent. The bacteria enter through a break in the skin, but they can also infect healthy skin. Staph bacteria release a toxin that allows the infection to spread to other areas. Mayo Clinic states impetigo usually heals in two to three weeks by using topical agents. However, with widespread infection, it is possible to develop complications requiring medical care and prescription antibiotics.
Goldenseal
Goldenseal, scientific name Hydrastis canadensis, is a perennial herb related to the buttercup. Goldenseal gets its name from its yellow rootstock called rhizomes. The rhizomes and inner twig bark are used medicinally. It is also known as poor man's ginseng, eye root, yellow paint root and ground raspberry. Goldenseal contains berberine, which has strong antibacterial properties. Goldenseal can be applied topically to the sores of impetigo, either as a tincture or bark powder. It should only be used for short periods of time, because it can also destroy beneficial bacteria.
Myrrh
Myrrh, scientific name Commiphora molmol, is another herb with antimicrobial properties. It is a shrubby tree found in the deserts of the eastern Mediterranean. Myrrh, the Arabian word for "bitter," is also known as guggal gum, didin and guggal resin. The sticky resin is collected from cuts in the bark or stems. Myrrh has been used for centuries in ointments and perfumes. It has broad spectrum antibacterial action and its essential oil can be used topically to treat skin infections such as impetigo. Myrrh should not be applied around the mouth and eyes. Myrrh can also be combined with goldenseal to make antibacterial salve.
Evening Primrose
Evening primrose is a flowering herb that has seeds containing the essential fatty acid called gamma-linoleic acid, or GLA. The oil is extracted from the seeds and used for medicinal purposes. GLA found in evening primrose oil is beneficial for treating the sores of impetigo. This herb is available commercially as a standardized tincture or capsule containing 8 percent evening primrose oil. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends children and adults respectively take 2 to 4g and 2 to 8g daily. Do not take evening primrose oil if you have a seizure disorder or bleeding disorder.
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