There are a number of boil home remedies that will speed up a boil’s life cycle. A staphylococcus bacterium is usually the culprit behind the small, painful bump that seems to take forever to burst and drain. Unresolved splinters and occasionally severe acne outbreaks allow the bacteria to penetrate the skin. The most common entry point is a hair follicle.
Initial Treatment for Boils
Many boil home remedies work best if used when the boil starts to form. Remember to wash your hands thoroughly after treating a boil or any infected wound. The pus inside the blister is why people ask if boils contagious. Draining boils can shed live bacteria and may be contagious.
Application of warm compresses three times a day for 30 minutes helps loosen the skin around a boil.
Using onion or garlic juice directly on the affected area will help the boil form a head.
Fenugreek seeds have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Grind the seeds into a paste and apply to the boil to relieve the pain. See Fenugreek Benefits
Wet, warm tea bags placed on the boil will relieve discomfort.
Herbal Oils for Boils
Essential oils can be placed directly onto the blister to encourage it to form a head. Fennel, holy basil and turmeric are very useful. Cumin, clove and rosemary are spices that can be soaked in virgin olive oil and used to treat boils. Once a boil has popped and draining, lavender, yarrow and marigold oil will help kill any live bacteria and promote healing.
Parsley can be brought to a boil and simmered until it is soft, then applied warm to help the boil form a head. Once the blister has popped, aloe vera pulp, raspberry and sage leaves (prepared like parsley,) will prevent the bacteria from spreading and hasten healing. Boil home remedies are quick to make and if begun early will lessen the time it takes for them to resolve.
Are Boils Contagious?
Live staphylococcus bacteria are very aggressive, being released once the boil pops. To avoid spreading the infection:
Wash your hands after treating an open boil.
Avoid baths when a boil is draining.
Keep a loose covering over open boils, as this will reduce the chance of this bacteria spreading to other areas or to other people.
Disinfect and sanitize washcloths used to treat boils at home to prevent the spread of this bacterium.
Small boils can be popped at home. Placing the inner layer of an eggshell over a boil will bring it to a head in a few hours. If you have a fever, if red streaks are present or if the boil is large seek medical assistance. Once a boil forms a head, use a sterilized needle to open a small hole in the boil. Gently squeeze the area around the boil. Properly dispose any materials used in this process, as the fluids may be contagious.
You probably have on hand many of the herbs and spices used for boil home remedies. A good diet and personal hygiene may prevent the formation of boils.
Disclaimer: Always consult your medical professional before trying any homemade treatment. This site is designed for informational purposes only and is not rendering medical advice or professional services.