Home Remedies for Frostbite

For those who work or play outside in the winter, frostbite can be a danger.  The most vulnerable parts of the body are the fingers and toes, cheeks, nose and ears.  Usually normal blood flow and adequate clothing keep us warm enough to prevent frostbite.  Extreme cold restricts the flow of blood and the result can be a case of frostbite.

Frostbite Symptoms

Frostbite turns the skin red and causes tingling sensations.  When skin cells begin to die from lack of blood circulation they become white and numb.  Damage from frostbite can be so serious that the extremities must be amputated.

First Aid Treatment

At the first sign of frostbite, get the person warmed up.  Take them inside or to a sheltered spot and remove any wet or icy clothing.  Give them something warm to drink like tea, coffee or hot chocolate.   Just drinking warm water will suffice if no other beverage is at hand.  Use warm, not hot, water to pour over the frostbite until circulation is restored and damage is halted. Never use hot water on frostbite as the skin will be easily burned.  If the area remains numb and white, seek medical attention at once.

Herbal teas that contain ginger are especially warming.  Grate an inch of fresh ginger root and steep in one cup of boiling water for a really cozy brew. If you catch the frostbite early enough to prevent serious skin damage, use aloe vera gel to warm the area and restore circulation by increasing the blood flow.  If any blisters form, continue to treat the skin with aloe vera gel until it is healed.

Frostbite Prevention

With frostbite, as with many other conditions, prevention is truly the best cure. When children are playing outside in extreme cold they should be dressed in protective clothing that keeps the feet, head and hands warm and dry.  An adult should check the children periodically looking for red cheeks and noses, wet mittens and wet feet.  Keeping an eye on the temperature and limiting exposure on really cold days is a good idea.  Adults should work or play with others who can check each other for frostbite symptoms periodically.