Bedsores, also known as pressure sores or pressure ulcers, are patches of injured tissue that occur when prolonged pressure reduces circulation to susceptible areas of your body. MayoClinic.com states that your buttocks, hips and heels are especially vulnerable to bedsores. Without sufficient blood flow, tissues in the affected areas may die. Certain herbs may be helpful in treating bedsores. However, you should always discuss the use of herbs with your doctor before taking herbal medicines.
Bedsores
Bedsores usually develop when pressure is applied to the bony areas of your body for extended periods. Common symptoms associated with bedsores include persistent areas of irritated skin that may be itchy, spongy or painful; skin loss in the affected area; ulcers; and damage to underlying muscle and bone. Although bedsores are common in people who are confined to bed for long periods of time, they may also occur in wheelchair-bound individuals. Vitamin deficiencies are also common in people who develop bedsores.
Appropriate Herbs
In her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," nutrition researcher Phyllis Balch lists numerous herbs that may be helpful in treating your bedsores. Several herbs, including calendula, comfrey and aloe vera, may be applied topically, or to your skin, as an ointment, cream or gel. Other herbs may be used in tea or extract form to help heal your wounds, including lime flower, buckwheat, suma, pau d'arco, goldenseal and myrrh gum. Non-herbal supplements such as essential fatty acids and vitamin E may also be beneficial in treating your bedsores.
Highlighted Herb
Comfrey, when used externally as an ointment, is often helpful in treating your bedsores. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that the roots and leaves of the comfrey plant contain a substance called allantoin, which promotes new tissue growth, and other substances that decrease inflammation and improve your skin health. Comfrey ointment, notes the Center, may also be used to treat bruises, muscle strains, ligament sprains, fractures and chronic conditions such as degenerative joint disease.
Disclaimer
There are several possible complications associated with bedsores, notes MayoClinic.com, including cellulitis, sepsis, bone and joint infections and cancer. Although herbs may be helpful in treating your bedsores and reducing your risk of serious health complications, the use of herbs does not guarantee a cure or a beneficial result. You should always discuss treatment strategies for your bedsores with a qualified health care professional. Your physician can suggest various treatment options that may help heal your bedsores.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Bedsores
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Comfrey
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