Abscesses are pockets of pus that form in response to the white blood cell’s attempt to eradicate bacteria. Even small injuries can allow enough germs in that an abscess forms. While abscesses that are very large or in a dangerous spot (internal, or in the ear or mouth) merit the immediate attention of a trained professional, smaller cutaneous abscesses may be dealt with at home. Here are a few natural remedies for dealing with small, cutaneous abscesses.
Heat
One of the worst parts about an abscess (aside from the fact that there’s a pocket of pus in your skin) is the discomfort. The area is likely inflamed to begin with, but with the added pus and debris, they can become quite tender from all of the internal pressure. For abscesses less than one centimeter in size, try applying a warm compress (like a tea bag). This can help ease the swelling and pain while your body’s immune system does its best to kick in. Don’t try to poke, prod, or pop the abscess. Popping it can shove all that gunk into the tissue below it, and trying to ram a needle into it may damage any attached blood vessels, allowing the bacteria to slip straight into the bloodstream.
Natural Antibiotics
If the abscess isn’t healing, your immune system may need an extra kick. Look for things that have a natural antibiotic or antimicrobial properties. Garlic contains inflammation fighting sulfuric compounds. These same compounds can help get rid of bacteria -- or at least keep it from spreading. Crush a clove of garlic and simply apply it to the area. It may help to twist it in a piece of coffee filter or cheesecloth -- something that will allow the juices to leak out while preventing it from getting all over everywhere.
Clove oil is another great option often used for toothaches and abscesses. It too has antibacterial compounds, as well as being an antiseptic (just in case it’s not bacteria causing the problem). It’s analgesic properties can help reduce swelling and inflammation, which will help to ease pain. Mix a couple of drops with about ¼ teaspoon of olive oil, dab it up with a cotton ball, and rub it over the area. Tea tree essential oil is also a natural antiseptic, antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial product that may help with an abscess. Mixed with melted coconut oil, you can double your antimicrobial properties while adding a soothing sensation to your tender skin.
Turmeric is what gives mustard its yellow color, and comes as a bottle of yellow powder. It appears to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Make it into a paste with a little bit of milk or oil and smear it on your abscess. While this is helping your abscess, you can make a turmeric tea to keep the bacteria out of the rest of your body. Drink 1 to 2 teaspoons in milk or water with breakfast, lunch, and dinner for three days.
Produce to the Rescue
Some other options that are great for a skin abscess you can find in the grocery store include onions and potatoes. Cut an onion into thick slices, and wrap a slice onto your arm every three hours. Eventually, it should make enough blood come into the abscess that it brings it to a head and internally combusts. Likewise, you can slice or dice potatoes and apply them to the abscess. This is supposed to draw out the infection. It’s a good idea to draw a line around the swollen and discolored part of the abscess as soon as you notice. If none of these natural remedies are effective and the abscess continues to grow beyond your marker line, call your doctor to prevent serious complications.
