Burns can be painful and frightening, but the good news is that there are a variety of home remedies you can use to ease the pain and help the healing process. In this blog post, I will discuss some of the most common and effective home remedies for burns. I will also provide tips on when to seek medical assistance and what to do if your burn becomes infected. By arming yourself with these tips and tricks, you can have peace of mind that you have the right tools to deal with a burn in the most effective way.
12 Best Home Remedies for Minor Burns
Try to avoid applying anything to the burn until it is cooled and you can see the extent of the damage. Many people believe the best thing you can do for a burn is to put something fatty or greasy on it, such as butter. But this is not true. Once the injury has occurred, it can take twenty-four to forty-eight hours for the burn to stop progressing.
1. Breastmilk
Breastmilk has antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties, making it an ideal treatment for burns. It can be applied directly to the burn to reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation, as well as to promote healing. It can also help to reduce the risk of infection, as the milk contains antibodies which can help to fight off any potential infection. Finally, the milk can help to speed healing by providing the skin with essential nutrients. Apply breastmilk to the burn area and leave it on for 20-30 minutes.
2. Aloe Vera
For minor first and second degree burns, use a leaf from an aloe plant for instant relief. Make a paste of fresh gel of Aloe Vera with a pinch of turmeric powder. According to recent research Aloe Vera is useful for sunburn as well as radiation burn. Use of ghee or coconut oil also gives same impact. Take 1 tablespoon Aloe Vera and 1/4 teaspoon each of the sandalwood and turmeric powder. Mix them together, and apply the paste topically. This will be soothing and healing.
3. Cold Water
The most effective way to treat a burn is with cold. Immediate application of something cold, such as ice or cold water, is the best remedy. If you have no ice cubes, use a bag of frozen vegetables from the freezer. Then apply hypericum lotion (about 10 drops of mother tincture, in a cup of water).
4. Tea Bags
Place a cool, moist tea bag over the burn. Tea contains tannins that can help reduce inflammation and pain. Tea contains tannic acid, which can help to soothe the skin and reduce inflammation.
5. Cilantro
Cilantro is beneficial for burns. Make fresh cilantro juice by placing a handful of cilantro in the blender with about 1/3 cup of water. Strain. Take the juice internally (2 teaspoons 3 times a day), and put some of the pulp directly on the skin.
6. Gotu Kola or St. John’s Wort
Gotu kola is a small creeping plant, which grows in the wild throughout India. It is the herb which has ability to stimulate repair of damaged tissue. Apply as a lotion to the skin to treat minor burns. St. John’s wort can be used directly on the burn to cool and soothe.
7. Blueberry Juice or Egg White
Crush blueberries and extract the juice. Keep in the refrigerator or freezer to use on burns or scalds in the case of an emergency. Another home remedy suggests applying stiffly whipped egg whites to the burned skin. Leave to dry then wash off gently with lukewarm chamomile tea.
8. Winter Squash or Pumpkin
Use poultice made from winter squash or pumpkin fruit pulp for burns. Also try using pumpkin seed oil to heal burns, chapped skin and wounds.
9. Essential Oil
Lavender essential oil can be useful for minor burns and sunburns. Essential oils are not true oils. Do not apply true oils, such as olive, almond, or vegetable oils to burned skin until the burn has fully resolved. Rose essential oil has antibacterial, anti fungal and antiviral properties, making it ideal to topically treat a host of ailments including burns. Rose contains high amounts of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant. This important vitamin can help protect skin cells from damage and can help prevent sunburn. You can get rosewater in any convenient store.
10. Raw Potato or Onion
Place raw potatoes slice on a burn to provide instant relief. This also helps to stop skin irritation while healing. Same as that of potato, use onion directly on the skin for instant relief.
11. Oats
Combine 30g. of oats and 175 ml of water in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 2 minutes or until cooked. Let cool. Cover the burned area with the cooled oat mixture. Wrap in clean muslin or gauze and keep it in place for 30 minutes to an hour. Oatmeal is soothing to burned skin. The gooeyness comes from a polysaccharide (complex sugar) called beta-glucan. It helps protect and hold water in the skin. Other compounds called phenols have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity.
12. Linseed / Flax Seed
Linseed / flax seed also finds use when applied locally to the skin as a poultice. Put warm soaked seed in gauze or muslin and hold or bind in place on burns.
Types and Levels of Burns
There are three levels of burns. First degree only hurts the outer layer of skin, like a sunburn. It causes redness and pain, and, after a couple of days, peeling skin. Second degree burns extend into the dermis, the bottom layer of skin. It will develop blisters indicating the burn has penetrated deeper into the skin and is more painful. The worst type of burn is a third-degree burn also called full-thickness burns, destroy the skin and damage underlying tissues. Because nerves are damaged, the area may be numb. Other signs include white or charred skin, which is also a medical emergency. For serious burns, particularly over a larger area of the body, a person needs hospitalization, plasma, and intensive care. Here are some common household burns, such as from inadvertently touching an iron, a skillet, or a cigarette, steam burn.
Tips to Heal Burns Quickly
- Once a burn has cooled down and begins to heal, cover it with an herbal salve to help reduce dryness and promote healing. Don’t apply it too soon because if the burn is still warm, the salve will lock in heat and could increase damage to the skin.
- It is important not to apply a bandage to cover the burn. Keep it open to the air because if you apply a bandage, the body’s heat may affect the burn adversely.
FAQs.
Q. Does Vaseline help burns?
No, Vaseline should not be used on burns, as it can trap the heat and make the burn worse. The best way to treat a burn is to run it under cool water and then cover it with a sterile gauze or bandage.
Q. Why do we put fish skin on burns?
Fish skin is sometimes used to treat burns because it is believed that the collagen-rich material can help to reduce pain and promote healing. The fish skin is carefully cleaned and then applied to the burn wound, providing a protective barrier and allowing the skin to heal while reducing the chance of infection.
Q. Does ice help a burn?
No, ice should not be used to treat a burn. If the burn is minor, hold the area under cold running water for 10–15 minutes, or until the pain subsides. If the burn is more serious, seek medical attention.
Q. Can you treat burns using honey?
Yes, honey has been used to treat burns for centuries. It is known to reduce inflammation, redness, and swelling, and helps to protect the wound from infection. Honey also helps to keep the wound moist and can help speed up the healing process.
Q. Why does yellow mustard relieve a burn pain?
Yellow mustard contains a compound called turmeric, which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. When applied topically, it can help reduce the pain and inflammation associated with a burn. Additionally, mustard has cooling and soothing properties that can help to provide relief from the burning sensation of a burn.
Q. Is toothpaste good for burn?
In my opinion, toothpaste does not work for burn relief. It can cause further irritation or even an allergic reaction to the skin. If you still want to give a try yo use toothpaste for burn relief, first ensure that the burn is minor and does not require medical attention. Once you have determined that the burn is mild, clean the affected area with soap and water. Then, apply a pea-sized amount of toothpaste over the burn and leave it on for a few minutes. If desired, use a bandage to cover the burn and the toothpaste. Finally, rinse the area with cool water and gently pat it dry. Burns should be treated with cold water, aloe vera gel, and sterile dressings. If the burn is severe, you should seek medical attention.
Q. How do I heal a burn quickly?
- Cool the burn with cool or lukewarm water for 10-15 minutes.
- Cover the burn with a sterile gauze bandage or a clean cloth.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen if necessary.
- Apply an antibiotic ointment or cream to the burn.
- Keep the area clean and dry.
- Change the bandage daily or as needed.
- Avoid breaking any blisters.
- If the burn is severe, seek medical attention.
Q. What is the first aid for burns at home?
First aid for burns at home includes:
- Cool the burn. Cooling the burn with cool or lukewarm running water for at least 10 minutes.
- Cover the burn. Cover the burn with a clean, dry cloth or bandage.
- Seek medical attention. Seek medical attention if the burn is larger than 2 to 3 inches or if it is on the face, hands, feet, or genitals.
Q. Does fish skin heal wounds faster?
There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that fish skin can heal wounds faster than other methods. However, studies have found that fish skin may provide some benefits when used to treat burns and wounds. Fish skin can provide a moist environment which can help to promote healing, and it may also be effective at preventing infection. Additionally, fish skin may have antibacterial properties, which can help to reduce the risk of wound infection.
Q. Is baking soda good for a burn? How to use baking soda good for a burn?
Baking soda is a natural remedy for minor burns. It works by neutralizing the pH of the burn and drawing away heat from the area and reducing inflammation. It helps to reduce pain and discomfort and soothe the burn. But baking soda is not recommended for treating burns. For minor burns, it is recommended that you cool the area with cold water or a wet cloth and then cover it with a sterile gauze bandage. If you still want to use it here are steps using baking soda to help treat a burn is easy.
- Make a paste. Start by putting a few tablespoons of baking soda in a small bowl. Add enough water to make a paste.
- Apply the paste to the burn. Gently spread the paste over the affected area of skin.
- Let the paste sit. Let the paste sit on the burn for 10-15 minutes.
- Rinse off the paste. Rinse off the paste with cool water.
- Apply a moisturizer. After rinsing off the baking soda, apply a moisturizer to the affected area. This will help soothe the burn and prevent it from drying out.
Q. What are natural remedies to treat minor burns? Which are the traditional methods to cure skin burn?
- Aloe Vera: Apply a thin layer of aloe vera gel to the burn. Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe skin and reduce pain and discomfort associated with a burn.
- Honey: Apply honey directly to the burn. Honey has natural antiseptic properties that help reduce the risk of infection and speed healing.
- Lavender Oil: Dilute lavender essential oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, and apply directly to the burn. Lavender has soothing and antibacterial properties.
- Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is a popular home remedy for treating skin burns because of its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Yogurt: The probiotics found in yogurt can help to restore the skin’s natural balance and promote healing.
- Turmeric: Turmeric is an ancient remedy that has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce swelling and discomfort associated with a burn.
- Tomato: Sliced tomatoes placed onto the burned area will soothe and heal the damaged skin. Hold the tomato in place for at least 10-15 minutes.
Q. What are the best ways to treat minor first degree kitchen burns?
- Cool down the burn with cold water for 5-10 minutes.
- Cover the burn in a sterile gauze pad or cloth and apply a cold compress.
- Apply aloe vera or a moisturizing lotion to the burn.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
- If the burn is painful, apply a topical anesthetic such as lidocaine or benzocaine.
- Keep the burn clean and covered with a dry, sterile bandage.
- Avoid popping blisters or applying ointments or butter to the burn.
- Seek medical attention if the burn is deep, covers a large area, or is accompanied by swelling or signs of infection (fever, pus, redness, etc.).
Q. Got a steam burn. What to do? What is the best way to treat steam burns?
- Immediately run cool water over the burn for 10-15 minutes.
- Cover the burn with a clean, dry cloth or bandage.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever, if needed.
- Contact a doctor or seek medical attention if the burn is severe, blistering or covering a large area of skin.
Q. Why is a steam burn more damaging than a fire burn?
A steam burn is more damaging than a fire burn because it penetrates deeper into the skin and causes more tissue damage. Steam is hot enough to cause a third-degree burn, meaning it can cause the death of skin cells and even destroy underlying tissue. Fire burns are usually only second-degree burns and, while still painful and requiring medical attention, only damage the top two layers of skin.
Q. Why is a steam burn more damaging than a burn from boiling water at the same temperature?
Steam burns are more damaging because steam carries more energy than boiling water, and the energy is transferred to the skin all at once. Steam is so much hotter than boiling water because it is composed of water molecules that are all in a gaseous form, whereas boiling water has some of its molecules in liquid form. This allows the steam to penetrate and cause deeper tissue damage.
Q. Can I put lavender on a burn? How do you apply lavender to a wound?
Lavender should not be used directly on an open wound. Instead, it can be used in a compress or poultice to help reduce inflammation, fight infection, and promote healing. To make a poultice, steep dried lavender flowers in boiling water for 15 minutes. Strain the liquid, and soak a clean cloth in the infusion. Apply the cloth directly to the wound and leave it in place for 15 minutes.
Q. Is lavender oil good for burn scars?
Lavender oil has been known to help with burn scars and other skin wounds, as it contains properties that can help to increase blood circulation, promote healing, and reduce inflammation. To apply lavender oil to burn scars, first clean the area with warm water and mild soap before patting it dry. Then, mix a few drops of lavender oil with a carrier oil such as coconut oil, jojoba oil, or olive oil. Apply this mixture to the affected area and massage it in gently. Repeat this process 1-2 times a day for best results.
Q. How do you use real aloe vera on a burn?
To use aloe vera for burns:
- Cut off a section of an aloe vera leaf and squeeze the gel directly onto the burn.
- Gently massage the gel into the burn with your fingertips.
- Let the aloe vera dry for about 15 minutes, then rinse the area with cool water.
- Repeat every few hours for best results.
- If possible, keep the aloe vera in contact with the burn for as long as possible.
- Cover the burn with a sterile bandage if needed.
Q. Does breastmilk help heal wounds?
Yes, breastmilk can help heal wounds. It contains a number of substances, including antibodies, that can help fight infection and promote healing. However, it is important to note that breastmilk is not a substitute for proper wound care, such as cleaning and dressing the wound.
Q. Can coconut oil treat burns? Is coconut oil good for healing burn scars?
Coconut oil is a popular natural remedy for many skin ailments, including burns. However, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that it can heal burn scars. If you choose to use coconut oil to help soothe the skin, apply a thin layer of organic, cold-pressed coconut oil over the burn. Re-apply coconut oil as needed throughout the day to keep the area moisturized and protected.
Q. Why is JELONET good for burns?
JELONET is a sterile, non-adherent dressing made of soft, absorbent and breathable fabric that is designed to provide a barrier against infection and to help ease pain caused by burns. The dressing helps to soothe the burn and reduce the risk of infection by providing a moist environment that promotes healing. It also helps to cushion and protect the burn, as well as absorb exudate. Its high absorbency also helps to reduce the risk of maceration.
Q. Can I put tea tree oil on burn?
No, you should not put tea tree oil on a burn. Tea tree oil can be very irritating to a burn and should not be used as a treatment. Instead, you should cool the burn with cold water and then cover it with a sterile dressing. If the burn is severe, you should seek medical attention.
Q. Is egg good for wounds? Can egg white heal wounds?
No, eggs are not typically recommended for wounds. Egg whites may contain bacteria that can cause further infection. Instead, a sterile dressing is the best option for wound care. It is best to use a medical-grade ointment or bandage to cover and protect the wound. But some people believe that, the albumin in eggs helps to soothe the burn and reduce the risk of infection. So if you still want to use it to treat burns, here are few tips to use it.
- Separate the egg whites from the yolk, making sure to discard the yolk.
- Beat the egg whites until they form a frothy mixture.
- Apply the egg whites directly to the affected area and leave on for 15-20 minutes.
- Rinse the burn with clean, cold water and pat dry with a clean cloth.
- Apply a layer of petroleum jelly or antibiotic ointment.
- Cover the burn with a sterile bandage.
- Repeat the process as needed.
Q. Why does my skin burn after moisturizing?
It is likely that the moisturizer you are using contains ingredients to which you may be sensitive. Some common irritating ingredients in moisturizers include fragrances, alcohol, menthol, and certain preservatives. It is best to avoid these ingredients and opt for a moisturizer that lists only natural, hypoallergenic, and non-irritating ingredients. If you are still experiencing skin burning after moisturizing, you may want to consult with a dermatologist to determine the cause.
What are Burns and Scalds?
Most anyone who spends much time in the kitchen or out in the sun has experienced a burn. A burn is an injury to the tissue of the body caused by heat, chemicals, electricity, hot liquids, fire or radiation. Have you ever burned yourself? With the oven, with the curling iron, or with the sun rays – ultraviolet light? It hurts, and it’s even worse when the skin blisters. Most of our mothers have told us that running the burn under cold water immediately helps to soothe the burn and prevent it from getting worse. Always cool a burn by letting cool water run over it until the pain has stopped.