Using a Skin Infection Home Remedy
Skin Infection
From fungal infections such as ringworm to bacterial infection such as cellulitis, there are many different types of infections that can occur on one of the layers of the skin. Many of the common infections are harmless, others can damage the skin, and others can spread, becoming very serious. A skin infection home remedy can be very effective in controlling or treating more minor problems, but it is still important to see your doctor for a diagnosis and discussion of treatment options.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is a potent anti-bacterial and anti-fungal agent. It is a natural extraction of tea tree leaves. You can apply to the skin infection several times a day with a clean cotton cloth. Either dilute the tea tree oil in distilled water or a cold-pressed vegetable oil and dab onto the skin, or use a very small amount undiluted. Tea tree oil is safe when used topically and is very useful for treating fungal skin infections. If you have sensitive skin consider diluting the tea tree oil as it can cause irritation.
Colloidal Silver
Colloidal silver is a simple, natural mineral remedy for microbial infections on the skin. Applying a small amount to the affected area with a clean cotton cloth will kill bacteria of fungi that are on the surface of the skin. Colloidal silver acts as a natural antibiotic, capable of destroying over 600 different microorganisms. How does it kill harmful microbes? By binding to and destroying proteins.
While a common traditional remedy, it is important to be careful with colloidal silver. Excessive use may lead to irreversible bluish skin discoloration. Taken internally, huge amounts or long-term use may cause kidney damage or neurological problems.
Garlic, Olive Oil, and Honey
Another natural remedy that can be made at home for controlling minor infections is garlic, olive oil, and honey. Garlic has natural antibiotic properties, acting to destroy harmful microbes. Olive oil acts to nourish and moisturize the skin and serves as a carrier for the garlic. Honey
also has mild anti-bacterial properties and is a skin nourisher and protector.
First apply a thin coat of honey. Then apply a crushed garlic clove that has been mixed with one-quarter cup of olive oil, only on the affected area. Lay a thin layer of gauze over the mixture, making sure it is loose enough for air flow. Leave this on for about four hours and then wash clean.
Diet
There are plenty of forms of bacteria and fungus present on our bodies all of the time. There are also more than enough microbes in the everyday environment that the human body is exposed to. Some people are more prone to getting skin infections than others for a variety of reasons, one of which is poor immune health. To prevent and to help treat a bacterial or fungal infection naturally, eat a healthy diet to boost the body’s ability to defend itself from harmful microbes. Eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, particularly garlic, green leafy vegetables, and berries. Consume cultured foods such as yogurt, kefir, and kimchi. Eat whole grains instead of processed flour products, seafood and vegetable protein instead of red meats, and fresh fruit juices and clean water instead of sugary juices and soda.
A skin infection home remedy can help to defend your body from harmful microbes, and in minor cases, treat the infection. If an infection does not improve within a few days, make an appointment to see your doctor if you have not done so already. There are so many different types of infections and some can lead to more serious problems.
References
Page, Linda. “Healthy Healing: A Guide to Self-Healing for Everyone, 11th Edition” (Traditional Wisdom, 2003).
Balch, Phyllis A. “Prescription for Nutritional Healing.” Fourth Edition (Penguin Books, 2006).
photo by Kriplozoik (CC/flickr) https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Tea-tree-oil-bottle.jpg
photo by Mullica (CC/flickr) https://www.flickr.com/photos/mullica/2723206247/
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