I have a boil on my upper thigh. Not long ago I had another, in an even more delicate spot. I have been using antibacterial soap since the first episode. Now I'm wondering if I'm lacking something in my diet. It eventually came to a head and is draining. I've been using compresses and keeping it exposed the best I can while I am not working. Do you have any other suggestions for handling these in the future, or preventing them altogether? I'm told that once these start, they tend to come back.

A.

A boil, also known as a furuncle, is an acute staphylococcal infection of a hair follicle. It begins as an acute, tender red nodule and enlarges to a pustule. A single boil should be treated with intermittent application of moist heat to allow it to open and drain spontaneously. Do not try to squeeze or open the boil yourself as this can spread the infection. Multiple or recurrent boils may require a course of antibiotic treatment. Since staphylococcal bacteria are contagious, it is also important to treat family members who have infections too.

Warm moist soaks with Epsom salts (8 tablespoons to a quart of water), salt solution (1 teaspoon to a quart of water) or boric acid (1 tablespoon to a quart of water) are soothing and help to promote drainage. Applying tea tree oil or a paste of goldenseal (Hydrastis) root powder to the boil are effective in killing the bacteria and promoting healing. Vitamins A and C and the mineral zinc are important to help the immune system fight the infection and promote tissue healing. Echinacea, propolis, goldenseal and garlic can be used internally. Large boils or boils that don't resolve in 2-3 days should be checked by your doctor.

To prevent recurrence, be sure that you are eating healthy foods and avoiding sweets and fats in the diet. Take a good multiple vitamin mineral supplement and drink plenty of water. Avoid applications of oils or oil based skin products and contact with chemicals which may irritate the skin. Excellent hygiene and cleanliness will prevent the spread of bacteria. Daily showers, daily change of bedding, towels, washcloths, and razor blades and frequent changes of clothing are very important. If you continue to get boils in spite of these measures, consult your health care provider to check for a depressed immune system.

For more on Boil Click Here >>

To search The Eclectic Physician Catalog of Nutritional Supplements for keywords relating to Boil - boil, staphylococcal , epsom salts, tea tree oil, echinacea, propolis, goldenseal, garlic
Click Here >>

Return to Q&A index

* The information presented in this web site is intended to inform and educate. It is not intended replace a qualified medical practitioner to diagnose or treat medical conditions.