Impetigo is a very contagious bacterial infection of the skin, common among school children. It is characterized by localized redness that develops into small blisters and gradually crusts and erodes around mouth and nostrils. It occurs when strep bacteria gain entry into the skin.
Some natural home remedies can be used against impetigo. To begin with, scrub the infection with gauze and antiseptic soap. Remove all crusts and clean all lesions. If crusts are difficult to remove, soak them in warm soapy water with some Hydrogen Peroxide (2%-3% peroxide) and scrub gently. One can also use Bacitracin ointment. Use of harsh detergents should be avoided. Garlic is very effective in relieving from constant itching. Chewing 1 or 2 cloves of garlic can also be helpful. Children should avoid scratching the infected parts.
A mixture of 60 grams aloe gel, 15 drops lemon grass oil and 15 drops patchouli oil should be applied at least 3 to 4 times a day to engage some relief. Aloe Vera gel can also be used with one-third cup of apple cider Vinegar and 1 cup of water for cleansing of lesions. Another effective measure is put one-third cup of rosemary leaves and one-third cup of thyme in 2 cups of water. Simmer for 20 minutes. Use this to clean the infected area with help of some cotton balls. A common fruit mulberry is also very useful for Impetigo patient. Mash a handful of mulberries. Place on infected area and bandage it. Mulberries act as an astringent and are good for treatment of impetigo.
Impetigo patient can take herbal bath with tea tree oil and take an extract out of tea tree and calamine lotion and put it on infected areas. Grapefruit seeds are also very effective against impetigo. It helps in the smoothening of the skin. A common vegetable turnip is also very useful. Chop turnip and place it in natural vinegar or rice water for 5-6 hours. This mixture should be eaten for gradual relief. Another useful remedy is a paste of Vaseline and cornstarch. Vaseline heals irritated skin and cornstarch helps to dry the rashes. Myrrh oil can also be used in case of inflammation and can be used with a few drops of honey which has anti-biotic effects.
At night, charcoal poultices can be attached to the affected area and left overnight for rapid cure. As far as diet is concerned, you should eat lots of fruits and vegetables containing vitamin C and zinc which increases immunity. 5 to 6 drops of olive oil can also be applied on infected areas for at least 4-5 times a day. It is effective against infectious bacteria. Impetigo can remain for 3 to 4 weeks.
Along with home remedies, a visit to the specialist is advised if you develop fever along with the impetigo or if you have a blister that is larger than an inch in diameter. The fever may indicate the presence of a deep skin infection such as cellulites, which is more serious and must be treated with intravenous antibiotics.
