Boils are pus-filled infections that erupt on the skin either singly or in clusters, called carbuncles. They can be extremely painful and are usually caused by the Staphylococcus aureus bacterium. In some cases, boils are caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, or MRSA. Regardless, you should never squeeze or pop a boil because you can spread the infection, potentially causing blood poisoning. Certain herbs are known for their antibiotic properties and their ability to destroy these bacteria; however, some herbs can also produce side effects. Consult your health practitioner before taking herbs to treat boils.
Boils
Boils and carbuncles often contribute to the formation of cellulitis, a bacterial skin infection that can become life-threatening if not treated. Boils and carbuncles are usually very tender and painful, forming in areas around a hair follicle, like the neck, buttocks, face, breasts and in the folds of the skin around the groin. Groups of boils that form in a small area are called carbuncles and heal more slowly than single boils.
Symptoms
In cases of folliculitis -- which is inflammation of the hair follicles due to infection -- symptoms may include redness, heat, pus, whitish-bloody discharge, pain and damaged hair.
Cellulitis
When boils are left untreated or if you squeeze them, pus escapes both from the top of the boil and from the inside, entering your bloodstream. Cellulitis can develop when the infection moves through the blood vessels of the skin, carrying the bacteria throughout the body. It is especially serious in cases where MRSA is present. MRSA is a flesh-eating bacteria and can destroy skin and underlying tissues if left untreated. Cellulitis may be one of the first signs of a spreading MRSA infection. If you have redness, heat and pain around the site of a boil accompanied with red lines extending outward from the boil, there is a good chance you've developed cellulitis. Immediate medical attention is necessary. You can use herbal medicines to complement conventional treatment; however, see your health practitioner for proper care.
Echinacea
Echinacea is one of the main herbs used for the treatment of bacterial infections, including MRSA, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. It has been used for centuries and there is much anecdotal evidence as to its efficacy. Historically, echinacea was employed for the treatment of blood poisoning and other highly infectious diseases such as syphilis, diphtheria, open wounds, sores, and strep throat and boils. Today, it is mainly used in the treatment of colds and flu to boost the person's immune system; however, its antibacterial healing properties are still well respected. It's available as an extract, in powdered form in capsules and as an ointment. You can use echinacea both orally and topically. If you have a boil or carbuncles, consult your health practitioner for directions for oral treatments. Echinacea ointments for topical application can be found at health food stores. Echinaea is considered safe when taken as prescribed, but it can create skin allergies in those who are sensitive. Do not take echinacea if you are taking immunosuppressive drugs.
Turmeric
Turmeric has been used as a spice and a medicinal ingredient for centuries in both Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. The active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin, which appears to posses antibacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral properties according to the Cleveland County Center, a division of the NC State Cooperative Extension website. There is a great deal of anecdotal evidence pertaining to its effectiveness in the treatment of bacterial and other infections, such as those causing boils. Turmeric is also a powerful antioxidant, a substance that hunts free radicals, particles that can destroy the cell membranes, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Substances high in antioxidants are also known to help fight infection. Turmeric can be eaten in curries as a spice and taken in capsule form or used as a topical poultice for medicinal purposes. The suggested dosage, according to the UMMC, is 400 mg to 600 mg daily of the standardized powder. Turmeric can thin the blood, so consult your health practitioner before taking it orally if you take blood-thinning medicines.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Turmeric
- Cleveland County Center: Discover Potential Health Benefits of Herbs and Spices
- University of Maryland Medical Center: MRSA Treatment
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Echinacea
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Cellulitis
- "Phytomedicine"; Bacterial and Properties of a Standardized Echinacea Extract (Echinaforce): Dual Actions Against Respiratory Bacteria; S.M. Sharma; July 2010
