Boils are a type of skin infection which begins in the oil glands or hair follicles. Before the appearance of the boils, the area of the skin that has been infected will turn red and a tiny tender lump will develop. Five to six days later the lump begins to turn white due to the accumulation of pus below the skin. In case infection penetrates deep into the skin tissues, it goes on to become an abscess. boils usually occur on the buttocks, shoulders, armpits, neck and face. The bacterium known as Staphylococcus is responsible for this kind of an infection. A majority of staph infections, if ignored, may become serious, if they develop into an abscess. These bacteria are normally present on our skin in small numbers; it is only when they enter our body through the hair follicles or cuts in the skin that they pose to be a threat, by spreading infection.
Here are few home remedies to treat boils. Onion juice is considered to be very effective when it comes to the treatment of boils. Blend an onion into a thick paste and then squeeze the juice out of the pulp. The juice should then be applied onto the boil 2-3 times a day. It will help the boil ripen and break, thus releasing the accumulated pus. An alternative to onion juice would be garlic juice. Garlic is a great anti-septic and it will ward off infection. Crush 2-3 garlic pods to extract the juice, and then apply a thin layer of the juice on to the boil. This will work in the same way as the onion juice. You could also mix equal quantities of the 2 juices, and apply the mixture on the affected area.
Another effective remedy is the use of cumin seeds. Grind a few cumin seeds into a thin powder. Add a few drops of water to it, so as to make a paste. This should then be applied on to the boil for 15-20 minutes at least twice a day. This remedy if executed consistently is also known to yield results. Parsley leaves used as a poultice can also be used to treat boils. Add some parsley leaves to 500 ml of water. Let the two simmer for a few minutes, till the quantity of water is reduced to half. Strain the water once it has cooled and wrap the leaves in a piece of muslin cloth. This should then be applied on the boil.
answered by G M