A slip of the knife while chopping celery, and you may have a cut to deal with. Minor cuts, often due to accidents around the home, break the outer layer of skin and may extend slightly into the tissue beneath. See a doctor for deep cuts, cuts that bleed profusely, puncture wounds and cuts to the face. In addition, a doctor should examine cuts that result from rusty metal. However, if the cut is minor, you can probably treat it with some home remedies.
Stopping the Bleeding
Pressure, applied gently on the cut, will usually stop the bleeding. Use a clean cloth to apply pressure and elevate the cut, if possible. If the bleeding does not subside within 30 minutes or if it increases, call your doctor.
Cleaning the Wound
Removing any debris from the wound will speed healing. Wash the cut under lukewarm running water to rinse away dirt or other substances. If any debris remains, use sterile tweezers to lift it gently from the wound. Use a gentle soap, preferably one without perfumes, to clean the skin around the wound. The staff at the Mayo Clinic advises against rubbing the soap directly into the cut.
Healing
After the cut is clean and is no longer bleeding, you may apply an antibiotic ointment if you have one on hand. Alternately, the "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine" recommends treating the cut by placing a damp teabag on it. Raw honey may also be beneficial for promoting healing in minor cuts due to its antibiotic properties.
Gale also mentions squeezing the oil from a Vitamin E or a Vitamin A capsule onto the cut to promote healing. As the cut heals, you may continue this practice to reduce the risk of scarring.
Protection
Cover the cut loosely with an adhesive bandage or sterile gauze to protect it from dirt. Avoid tight bandages that don't allow fresh air to reach the cut. Change the bandage or dressing every day and check for signs of redness or swelling that might indicate an infection.
If the cut does not heal, if it becomes inflamed or if you develop swollen lymph nodes, discontinue home treatment and see your doctor.
References
- "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, Volume 1"; Jacqueline L. Longe; 2005
- Mayo Clinic: Cuts and Scrapes
- MotherNature.com: Cuts and Scrapes
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