Frostbite occurs due to exposure to temperatures that are lower than the freezing point of the skin. This causes the skin and the underlying tissue to freeze causing the skin to become rigid, pale and numb. Usually small body parts like ears, cheeks, nose, toes and fingers are most prone to frostbite.
It is possible to treat frostbite by gradually warming the skin. However, if the damage is severe, medical attention is required to prevent infection and other complications. Sometimes the body part may even have to be amputated in order to prevent further damage. Luckily there are some herbal remedies for frostbite which can help to treat frostbite.
Herbal Remedies For Frostbite
Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper is an excellent remedy for enhancing the circulation in the affected body part. This action warms the body part gradually and the effect of frostbite diminishes. Cayenne pepper is also a well known pain reliever and hence is effective in reducing the pain of the frostbitten body part.
You can create your own cream by mixing a very small amount – about a pinch – of cayenne pepper powder into a non scented cream or olive oil. Even ready made capsaicin creams are available in the market, which act as one of the herbal remedies for frostbite.
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is a well known treatment for skin problems. The best way to use Aloe Vera is to extract the gel like juice from the leaves by slicing them horizontally.
Apply this gel to the affected area which will relieve the symptoms and quicken the healing process. You can also use lotions and creams containing Aloe Vera, but fresh juice is ideal. If done regularly, this remedy will help heal frostbite in about 7 to 10 days.
Horsetail
Horsetail is rich in silica which helps in the formation of collagen tissues. This is very good for the repair of skin tissues. Collagen is a kind of protein which helps in the regeneration of the skin, the tissue underlying it, cartilage and bones. Applying a paste of the herb on the affected area will act as one of the herbal remedies for frostbite.
Sage
Apart from the topically applicable remedies there is also a remedy which can be consumed orally to aid the healing process in case of frostbite. Sage is a popular herb and is used in the treatment of various ailments.
The best way to consume this herb is in the form of a tea. For making this tea, take one teaspoon of sage in one cup of water and bring it to a boil. Drink this tea when lukewarm and it will help in reducing the symptoms of frostbite.
Mullein Flowers
Take some mullein flowers and grind them into a paste. Add a small amount of olive oil to this paste and apply it on the frostbitten area. Olive oil is very nourishing for the skin and hence acts as one of the herbal remedies for frostbite. Mullein flowers on the other hand speed up the healing process. These flowers are useful in treating a number of ailments.
Photo Credit: http://adventuretykes.com/2012/01/10/tuesdays-tip-of-the-day-frostbite-or-frostnip/
Caution: Please use Home Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.