Topical Home Remedies for Skin Infections

Skin infections can occur for a variety of reasons, from exposure to a bacteria to an allergic reaction. The general symptoms are the same – a rash, itchiness and inflamed skin. It is important to eat a healthy diet to support the immune system, but topical treatments can help as well. Try any of these home remedies for skin infections to keep the skin clean and free from harmful microbes, while also promoting the formation of healthy, new skin. While these natural solutions can sooth skin and speed the healing process they are not a substitute for regular medical care. Be sure to see your doctor if symptoms persist or if an infection is severe.

Oatmeal and Lavender Bath

One way to help care for the skin when there is an infection is to take a soothing oatmeal and lavender bath. Oats are rich in saponins and other nutrients to help soften and nourish. They are excellent for treating the itchiness of a rash. Combine with lavender, which has both anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, and you have a dynamic healing experience for the skin.

To make this skin infection home remedy use two cups of dried oats and about one ounce of dried lavender. Add to a muslin bag and tie shut. Place this herbal treatment into bath water while hot water is running to allow the beneficial properties of the oats and lavender to infuse into the water. You can leave the bag in the bath while you soak for twenty minutes.

Fast Chamomile Relief

An oatmeal and lavender bath is one of the most soothing home remedies for skin infections, especially with an itchy rash. It does however take a lot of time and effort to prepare. For faster healing relief try chamomile. Make a strong chamomile infusion with two tea bags and one cup of water. Soak a clean cotton cloth in the chamomile tea and then apply to the affected areas, holding onto the skin for at least five minutes.

Chamomile will protect the skin from bacteria. It will also calm inflammation and reduce itching. Avoid this home remedy if you have an allergy to ragweed.

Soothing Aloe Vera

Another fast and effective home remedy to use to help the body overcome a skin infection is aloe vera gel. Aloe vera will cool and sooth any itching and irritation. The pure gel of this desert plant is one of the best topical remedies for promoting skin healing. Apply aloe vera gel to the skin two or three times a day for relief.

All of these natural remedies for skin infections are not only great for relieving symptoms, but they are also useful for speeding healing. Try to also eat a nutrient-rich diet and get plenty of sleep. Keeping the body healthy and the immune system strong, while also using topical remedies, you can take control of an infection. Be sure to see your doctor as well, especially if symptoms do not respond to home care.

Sources:
Page, Linda. “Healthy Healing: A Guide to Self-Healing for Everyone, 11th Edition” (Traditional Wisdom, 2003).
Hoffmann, David. The Complete Illustrated Holistic Herbal: A Safe and Practical Guide to Making and Using Herbal Remedies.” (Element Books, 1996).