Boils

Description
Boils are bacterial Infections that develop from the formation of a pustule within a hair follicle. Treatments include gentle cleansing with soap and water, use of hot water compresses, topical antibiotics, drainage and systemic antibiotics.

The boil should not be squeezed, since rupturing within the Skin can spread the Infection. Relief of Pain and healing are usually rapid after drainage. Boils are excruciatingly Painful and relief only comes when the pus is drained. They are contagious, so great care needs to be taken during treatment.

Herbs
Echinacea(4)

Nutritional Supplements
Garlic (1)
Vitamin A (2)
Vitamin C (3)
Vitamin E (3)

Homeopathy - Boils and Abscesses
Belladonna
Bright red, angry, throbbing and hot.
Condition develops rapidly and patient may be feverish.

Hepar sulph.
Prone to septic spots and infected cuts. Obvious pus present.

Silicea
Slow forming and healing boils and Abscesses.

Arsen. alb.
Where there is a marked burning sensation.

Sulphur
Repeated crops of boils, especially if patient is prone to scratch.

References
1. Mowrey DB. The Scientific Validation of Herbal Medicine. Connecticut: Keats Publishing, 1986.
2. Sanchez A, et al. Role of sugars on human neutrophilic phagocytosis. Amer J Clin Nutri 1973; 26:1180-84.
3. Nicol, M: Vitamins and Immunity, Allerg Immunol, 25(2), Feb 1993, p 70-73.
4. Luettig B, et al. Macrophage activation by the polysaccharide arabinogalactan isolated from plant cell cultures of Echinacea purpurea. J Natl Cancer Inst 1989; 31-669-75.