Poultices have been used by natural healers for centuries to treat a variety of health conditions. The raw potato poultice can be used as a natural treatment for low back pain, as it is thought to reduce swelling, relieve pain, promote absorption of nutrients, encourage muscle relaxation and support a healthy inflammatory response to injury. The ingredients are easy to come by and are often present in many households, making it a useful home remedy.
Preparing the Potato Poultice
Step 1
Wash and peel off the skin of the potatoes using a potato peeler.
Step 2
Finely grate enough raw peeled potatoes to cover the affected area with 1/2 inch to 1 inch of grated potato.
Step 3
Lay out a portion of cheesecloth that is large enough to completely contain enough of the raw grated potato to cover the affected area.
Step 4
Spread a 1/2- to 1-inch-thick layer of grated potato onto the cheesecloth.
Step 5
Fold all sides of cheesecloth over the grated potato, so that the poultice is completely enclosed. Secure one side of the cheesecloth with bandage clips. The side without the bandage clips will be the side applied directly to the skin and can be one or two layers of cheesecloth thick.
Applying the Potato Poultice
Step 1
Have the person receiving the treatment lie on his stomach on a comfortable surface.
Step 2
Apply the poultice directly to the lower back. The side with the bandage clips should be facing upward, away from the skin.
Step 3
Rest with the poultice applied for at least 15 minutes. Repeat this treatment three or four times a day, or as needed, until symptoms subside.
Things You'll Need
- 1 to 3 raw potatoes, medium size
- Potato peeler
- Cheese grater
- Cutting board
- Cheesecloth
- Bandage clips
References
- “Lectures in Naturopathic Hydrotherapy”; Wade Boyle, ND and Andre Saine, ND; 1988
- "Home Remedies: Hydrotherapy, Massage, Charcoal & Other Smple Treatments"; Agatha Thrash, MD and Calvin Thrash, MD; 2005
