Various types of head injuries may cause scalp wounds. Head injuries can range in severity from a small bump to serious brain injuries, and some of the most common causes of head wounds include motor vehicle accidents, physical assault, falls at home, injuries during recreational activities or accidents at work. Certain herbs may help heal your scalp wound, but you should only use herbs after you have cleared them with your family physician.
Scalp Wounds
There are four principal types of head injury: concussion, skull fracture, brain injury and scalp injury. According to the Lucile Packard Children's Hospital at Stanford, head injuries may result in cuts, scrapes or bruises on your scalp or cause scalp swelling. Because your scalp receives a large amount of blood, large bruises may occur with even minor scalp injuries and small cuts may cause significant bleeding. If you have forehead bruises, or contusions, notes the hospital, you may develop black eyes several days later.
Healing Herbs
Numerous herbs may help heal your scalp wounds. In her book, "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," naturopathic physician Sharol Tilgner reports that the following herbs are soothing to your skin and promote healing of your wounds, including your scalp wounds: chickweed, plantain, lavender, yarrow, calendula, comfrey, St. John's wort and aloe vera. Some herbs historically used for this health purpose may require further testing using contemporary scientific research methods.
Herb in Focus
Calendula may be one of the most popular -- and most effective -- herbal remedies in treating your scalp wounds. Calendula, notes expert herbalist Ed Smith, author of "Therapeutic Herb Manual," is a powerful vulnerary, or a substance that encourages wound healing, that historically has been used as a topical antibacterial and antiviral. Calendula promotes the growth of epithelial tissue and normal connective tissue. This herb has been used in treating wounds, burns, bruises and rashes.
Additional Information
Although scalp wounds may cause significant bleeding and bruising, they usually are not serious or life-threatening. If you suffer a scalp wound, report to your primary care provider as soon as possible to have your wound assessed and treated. In most cases, herbal remedies may be a helpful adjunct therapy in treating your wound and making sure it does not get infected. Before using herbs for this health purpose, review proper procedures, risks and alternatives with your family physician.
References
- MedlinePlus: Head Injury
- Lucile Packard Children's Hospital: Head Injury
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
- "Therapeutic Herb Manual"; Ed Smith; 2007
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