You might have been slicing a vegetable, opening a can of cat food, or tackling that home improvement project when you got cut. A superficial cut is called an abrasion. If the wound is deep, it is a laceration. If the wound is deep or was caused by something rusty, seek medical attention. Also if infection develops pus, if there is swelling or excess redness, if foreign material is embedded in the wound, or if you have a fever, get thee to a health care professional. If not, use these tips to heal thyself.
HERBAL REMEDIES FOR WOUNDS
Wash the injured area with soap and water. Rinse and blot dry. If there is visible dirt, use sterile gauze to wipe it out. However, do not use cotton balls, which can leave fibers in the wound.
Next, apply a calendula herbal salve (available at natural food stores), honey, or lavender or tea tree essential oils, which are all soothing and antibacterial.
You can also take echinacea tincture orally to help prevent infection.
For a paper cut, which can be painful yet too tiny for a bandage, moisten the wound and apply some powdered cloves for their anesthetic properties.
It is best to leave a wound exposed to air so it can breathe. However, if your kids like to play in the dirt, cover the wound with a bandage or sterile gauze to keep it clean. Use a butterfly bandage if the wound is large; this will help the wound “knit” back together more easily.
HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES FOR WOUNDS
Homeopathic remedies for cuts include Hypericum, especially for wounds where there are many nerve endings, such as fingertips, or for wounds manifesting as sharp shooting pain. Homeopathic Ledum is for deep puncture wounds, especially if the area is swollen, reddish, and numb or cold. Take as directed.
Cures from Grandma’s Kitchen
Grate raw potato and apply it directly to soothe the bruised area. Or try using cabbage leaf, which is improved by breaking up the cabbage by rolling the leaf with a rolling pin! Witch hazel and castor oil both cool, soothe, and reduce inflammation as well.
This Treating Cuts and Wounds article is taken from :
The Country Almanac of Home Remedies - Brigitte Mars
