Abscesses hurt for a reason.
Painful and often unsightly, these pockets of pus form due to bacterial infections. While they are not always lasting or chronic, they can be a recurring challenge for individuals with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS).
Are antibiotics and surgical drainage not cutting it?
Here’s the good news. There are ways to reduce inflammation, promote healing, and minimize discomfort the natural way.
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Let’s explore the top natural remedies for treating abscesses, especially for people with HS.
1. Diluted Tea Tree Oil
Renowned for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, tea tree oil is a top choice for treating skin infections, abscesses included. Thanks to its active compounds, like terpinen-4-ol, it’s easy to combat the bacteria responsible for infections while also soothing all that inflammation.
To start, simply mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil, whether coconut or olive oil, to prevent skin irritation. Make sure to apply directly. Use a cotton swab or pad and repeat this application two to three times per day until the abscess shows healing.
Also, be sure that you perform a patch test so that you don’t suffer an allergic reaction. Make sure the tea tree oil is always diluted and take your time building up to the right amount.
RELATED: Is It HS? 6 Common Misdiagnoses Black Folks Should Look Out For
2. Warm Compresses
This is an easy solution, but one that you need to do over and over again. Basically, the heat from the compress boosts blood circulation, which allows for further draining and a reduction in pain and swelling.
For a good compress, merely soak a clean washcloth in warm water. And make sure it’s warm and not hot as this can be a further irritant to your skin. From there, wring out the washcloth and put the compress directly on your abscess.
Keep it there for 10 or 15 minutes, and repeat as needed. Typically three or four times per day should suffice.
With repeated application, the compress will make it easier for the pus to drain naturally. It’s a particularly helpful remedy if you’re not ready to try to lance the abscesses.
3. Turmeric Paste
This vibrant yellow spice has long been celebrated for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, is widely useful for fighting swelling and combating infection.
In other words, an excellent remedy for abscesses!
And using this is simple. Simply mix turmeric powder with a small quantity of water or coconut oil. This should make a paste, which you can then directly apply to your abscess. Cover it with a clean bandage and let it chill for at least a few hours, if not overnight.
When time has elapsed, rinse it with warm water and repeat this process daily until you notice the abscess healing.
Some people will also consume turmeric tea or take turmeric supplements, which are great ways to bolster your body’s anti-inflammatory mechanisms.
RELATED: 8 Natural Remedies for HS
4. Epsom Salt Baths
Epsom salt, also known as magnesium sulfate, is a powerful remedy for lowering inflammation and facilitating the drainage of abscesses. It is also a natural detoxifier, which means it helps your body to dispose of many of the toxins that can worsen abscesses.
Next time you take a warm bath, add one to two cups of Epsom salt and soak for 20 minutes. Make sure that you fully submerge the affected area and pat it dry with a clean towel.
For the best results, you should take two or three of these baths every week. This remedy is especially useful for people who have multiple abscesses in hard-to-reach areas.
5. Manuka Honey
Who doesn’t love honey?
Manuka honey, a type of honey native to New Zealand, is prized for its potent antibacterial and wound-healing properties. Not only can it help disinfect abscesses, but it also keeps the skin nice and moisturized, an important part of the healing process.
To make the most out of Manuka honey, simply apply it directly to the abscess. Use a sterile bandage to prevent the honey from spreading and leave it on for at least several hours or overnight.
One of the reasons this honey works so well is because it contains methylglyoxal, a compound that gives it stronger antibacterial properties than normal honey.
This is one of the main reasons it’s so effective for those pesky infections.
6. Diluted Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
A natural antiseptic with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, ACV is all the rage for a reason. But here’s the catch. You have to use it wisely. You shouldn’t overdo it, or you’ll endure some adverse reactions. Not always, but many people are not using ACV properly, so it’s important to discuss the process.
To begin, dilute one part ACV with two parts water. This will help prevent skin irritation while also giving you the appropriate dosage to which your body can respond.
Next, soak a cotton ball or pad in the solution and apply it right to the abscess. Make sure you keep it on for 10 or 15 minutes, then make sure to rinse it with warm water. Repeat this up to three times per day.
Remember: ACV is acidic, so it could cause some stinging. This is why it’s highly important that you dilute it and don’t put it heavily on open wounds or sensitive skin.
Overall, it’s important that you incorporate certain practices as part of your daily routine. For starters, make sure that you maintain the best hygiene you can. Keep affected areas clean and dry to prevent bacteria from building up. Also, opt for breathable clothing where possible. In other words, you want loose-fitting, moisture-wicking fabrics.
And finally, mind your stress levels!
Stress alone can be a big trigger of HS, so it’s important that you try to keep your head and heart on the same page. If there are situations, settings, and or even people that you need to filter in your life, don’t feel guilty.
You owe it to yourself to handle your mental and physical health.
More than anything, it’s all about a comprehensive approach. Stay hydrated – very critical – and try to adopt a diet that is rich in leafy greens, berries, and omega-3 fatty acids. This will allow you to reduce inflammation, which can prevent further abscess formation.
With the right mindset and daily habits, you can greatly control your flare-ups like never before!
