Honey and Comfrey to Treat Bed Sores
Bed sores are the open wounds that form on the skin in those who sit in their wheelchair or bed for prolonged periods of times. They are also known as pressure ulcers or pressure sores. Those who are usually affected by this condition are people who cannot move because of coma, sedation, poor health, paralysis and weakness.
The symptoms by which you can recognize a bed sore are lesions or tearing on the skin, itching, pain and skin discoloration. It must be treated immediately or it can transform into deep ulceration with pus and infections. The most affected areas are the heels, buttocks, lower back, shoulder blades, ankles, back of legs and arms, spine area and back of the head. Bed sores can be treated with strict hygiene and home remedies that can speed up the healing process.
Saline Water
You can heal bed sores by cleaning them with saline water. This way, you will reduce the risk of inflammation and infection. The saline solution will remove the loose dead skin and diminish the excess fluid. Mix water (1 cup) with salt (2 teaspoons). Let the mixture boil and when it has cooled down, you can use the solution to clean the affected areas. When they are dry, you can cover them with bandages. You can repeat this procedure several times daily.
Honey
Honey is one of the most natural antiseptic agents, being able to eliminate infections and inflammation. It soothes the affected skin and offers relief from pain. At the same time, it promotes healing and reduces itching. Mix sugar with honey in equal parts and apply the solution on the affected areas. Cover them with bandages. You can use this treatment one time per day.
Coconut Oil
This healthy oil contains medium-chain fatty acids that are extremely important for the skin. It also improves blood circulation. Warm the coconut oil in your hands and apply it all over the affected areas. Massage gently until it penetrates the skin. You can apply this oil up to 4 times per day. You can also use mustard oil or olive oil instead of coconut oil.
Comfrey
Bed sores can also be treated with herbal treatments. Comfrey leaves and roots are extremely useful in this case. They can regenerate the tissues and reduce inflammation and pain. Use powdered slippery elm and comfrey leaves and mix them with a little bit of water, just enough to obtain a paste. Apply this on the affected areas and use a bandage to cover them. Let the mixture cure overnight and use saline water to clean the areas in the morning. Repeat the procedure daily.
Aloe Vera
You can treat bed sores with aloe vera. It has soothing and healing qualities and it can moisturize the skin. Extract the gel from one aloe vera leaf and apply it on the bed sores. Massage gently and when it has dried, you can use a damp cloth to clean the area. You can use this treatment thrice a day. If you don’t have an aloe vera plant in the house, you can also make use of aloe vera ointment, cream or powder.
