-IBIS-1.7.6-
tx
cutaneous system
Abscess
Integrative Therapies

Home Care

Boils are an infection of the skin caused most commonly by Staphylococcus. The skin looks red and swollen, and it may be painful. The neck, shoulders, and buttocks are most commmonly affected.

It is very important to avoid scratching, since this can cause the infection to spread. Both topical and internal methods are used to prevent the boil or abscess from coming back.


TOPICAL APPLICATIONS INCLUDE:

1. Moist heat – soak the area in Epsom Salt baths or compresses for at least 1 hour. A compress could be left on overnight. Use it at least twice a day or more. This can help the boil drain and improve the blood flow to the area.

2. Clay Poultice – Make a paste of powdered Bentonite or green clay by mixing a few teaspoons of the powder with some warm water. Apply to the affected area and let it dry. Remove it from the skin with warm water. This will help draw out the infection.


AS INTERNAL MEASURES:

1. Good bowel movement habits are important. Constipation or irregular bowel movements can aggravate skin problems because more waste must then be eliminated through the skin. Drink at least 8 cups of fluids a day, and eat plenty of fiber.

2. Diet - A good nutritious diet can help the immune system fight the infection. Maintain an overall healthy diet. This includes using fresh and unprocessed foods as close to the natural state as possible. Eat daily servings of leafy green vegetables, whole grains, fruit, and proteins with a minimum of animal fat. Keep the intake of sugar foods and refined carbohydrates (such as white bread and white rice) to a minimum.


THE FOLLOWING SUPPLEMENTS CAN BE TAKEN UNTIL SYMPTOMS IMPROVE:

1. Vitamin A – 50,000 to 100,000 Units per day for 2 to 4 weeks. Please be cautious – Do not take over 50,000 Units of vitamin A per day without a physician's supervision. Pregnant women should not take more than 10,000 Units of vitamin A per day.

2. Vitamin C – 1,000 milligrams 4 to 6 times per day.

3. Zinc – 30 milligrams twice a day.


HERBS FOR BOILS AND ABSCESSES:

Golden Seal, Echinacea, and Burdock are the herbs commonly used for this condition. Make a tea by mixing 3 cups of boiling water with 1 teaspoon each of Burdock and Echinacea and 1/2 teaspoon of Golden Seal. Simmer 5 minutes and steep 15 minutes. Drink 1 cup 3 times per day.

If used as a tincture, which is a liquid herbal extract, mix the herbs and take a total of 60 drops 3 times a day with juice or water.


HOMEOPATHY:

• Hepar Sulph 6C: To facilitate the suppurative process and, to a great extent, prevent its subsequent extension.

• Silica 6C: This is the main homeopathic remedy for persistent boils. Dissolve 3 pellets under the tongue 3 times a day.


Clinic


Footnotes

BarShalom R, Soileau J. (eds.) Natural Health Hotline. Beaverton, OR: Integrative Medical Arts, 1991-1999.