When it becomes clear that you have a skin infection, your first inclination is to see a doctor. However, with insurance requirements and the busy schedules of doctors, sometimes the infection can spread rapidly by the time you finally get a prescription. Here are some natural ways to take care of skin infections from the inside out, on the skin itself and with homeopathic remedies. It may still be a good idea to consult your doctor before trying new treatments.
From the Inside Out
Though it may seem counterintuitive, one of the best ways to help your body fight off an external infection may be by working on it from the inside out. Some foods, supplements or vitamins may help if you take them upon first noticing the infection. Both bacterial and fungal infections can be reduced or defeated by taking a friendly bacteria like lactobacillus acidophilus, which can be found in capsules or in some yogurts. This strain of good bacteria helps to restore your body's balance of internal flora. Take garlic in food or in capsule form to enhance your immune system. The herb has been found to have antibiotic, antifungal and antiviral properties. Certain herbs like American ginseng and echinacea can help to boost the immune system, which will help your body to better deal with the infection. Have an extra few servings of yogurt a day, add in garlic to your lunch and dinner, and purchase some ginseng and echinacea. Start this regimen immediately and continue it through the end of your infection.
On the Skin Itself
Once you've gathered your internal supplements, it's time to treat the infection right at the source. Tea tree oil can attack both fungal and bacterial infections when applied directly to the infected area. It can now be found at many pharmacies and natural food stores. Hydrogen peroxide is particularly effective for fungal infections and may help with bacterial functions as well. Dab it on with a cotton ball or create a skin soak by adding 1 cup of the peroxide to 1 gallon of water. Vinegar works in a similar way to hydrogen peroxide by attacking the infection with its acidity. Bleach is a much harsher remedy that can destroy fungus and bacteria, though many people are very sensitive to it. Try mixing a capful of bleach with a cup of water and dabbing it onto the area with a cotton ball. Wash your skin thoroughly afterwards with soap and water. Try one of these methods for a couple of days to test it, and if you have no results move on to one of the other remedies.
Other Remedies
When traditional remedies and home remedies do not have the desired result, try homeopathic remedies. Either consult a licensed homeopath or visit a natural foods store such as Whole Foods and buy the remedy that sounds similar to the symptoms you are experiencing. Calendula is a topical homeopathic remedy that can help heal skin rashes and stop the spread of infection. It can help the infection heal more quickly and is also effective for cuts and scrapes. Graphites is an oral remedy that is used for skin infections that include cracking and crusting skin that has a honey-colored discharge. Take Graphites if your infection is connected with an earache or a cold and a feeling of sluggishness. Sulphur is a remedy to use when your infection is accompanied by inflamed and red mucous membranes, eczema and acne. You can use the Calendula liberally on your infections and you can take Graphites or Sulphur in low 6C doses a few times a day to see if symptoms clear up.
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