Getting cuts and scrapes in the summertime is a common occurrence with all the outdoor activities you probably participate in. Before going for the OTC remedies, try these natural treatments instead.
Tea Tree Oil
An excellent natural remedy for when you have a cut or scrape is to use tea tree oil. This is often used for natural shampoos, as it helps to remove buildup from your scalp and helps tremendously with dry or sensitive skin. However, it can also work good for soothing your skin if you get a scrape while outdoors, such as hiking or on a short camping trip. Tea tree oil is also a natural antiseptic, helping to heal and treat the cut to keep it from getting infected. You can make your own tea tree oil salve or get a store-bought product. Use it on the cut or scrape to reduce inflammation while outdoors.
Coconut Oil
Another type of oil that is really good for helping wounds to heal is coconut oil. Coconut oil seems to be a one-size-fits all as a natural remedy that cures almost anything. For your wounds, coconut oil works great as an antiseptic, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory. It reduces pain and inflammation and helps get rid of any bacteria that might have otherwise caused an infection. Make sure you use extra virgin coconut oil and cover the area with a bandage after applying the coconut oil.
Lavender Essential Oil
In terms of essential oils for skin wounds like cuts and scrapes, you can’t go wrong with lavender. Lavender essential oil is really soothing on the skin, plus it smells great. As with all pure essential oils, don’t just put drops directly on the skin. You need to dilute it with a carrier oil first. However, you can use it to make your own antiseptic cream for wounds, or find a store-bought natural option that uses lavender essential oil. Not only can it help treat the wound, but it reduces the pain and helps to relax you while it is healing.
Aloe Vera
Everyone should have access to aloe vera, especially those interested in effective natural products. Aloe vera is wonderful for burns, but can also help with different types of skin wounds. It is soothing, cool on the skin, and provides anti-inflammatory properties. You can use the gel directly on your skin, whether from the bottle or directly out of an aloe vera leaf.
