Essential Oils to Support Wound Care
One of the students I tutor is an avid mountain biker. After an unfortunate tumble and case of "road rash" many people offered advice as to how to take care of the scrapes. He just replied "I just shower and let my skin heal naturally". Our skin does have the amazing natural capacity to heal itself. Damage to the skin should initiate a step-wise process of healing. But sometimes infection, age, and other factors cause problems. In some instances pressure sores, friction, or disease can also inhibit healing. When used properly, essential oils can help fight infection and encourage skin to heal despite challenging circumstances. Many people turn to only tea tree (Melaleuca alternafolia) when dealing with cuts and scrapes. Tea tree is an incredible oil for killing germs and soothing inflammation, but sometimes the skin needs additional help to heal. In this blog we'll look at some additional oils to help with skin repair. Essential oils can be used in conjunction with traditional care and consulting a certified or clinical aromatherapist is advised to help with oil choice and protocol as treatment can vary from person to person.
Research has shown the following oils are very beneficial in healing wounds.
Myrrh (Commiphorra myrrha) has been sited as an effective wound healer from biblical times to the present and is specifically beneficial in healing bedsores. It has been shown to increase leukocytes and is bacteriostatic against Staphylococcus aureus and other gram positive stains.
Lemon (Citrus limon) has been found to be effective at debriding and desloughing wounds. Lemon has antibacterial qualities and stimulates white blood production. Additionally it is uplifting and reduces odor.
Lavender (Lavendula angustafolia) is an effective cell regenerator, soothing and calming. It has analgesic and antibacterial properties as well. It is especially good for burns, skin problems, and wounds.
Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) is a proven antibacterial agent active against a wide range of bacteria and fungi.
German Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is excellent for its anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, and cicatrizant properties.
Helichrysm (H. italicum) can be hailed as liquid stitches due to its healing capacity. Typically rich in the ester neryl acetate helichrysm is hailed as a cell regenerater with anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Ah Frankincense! (Boswellia cateri or sacra) features esters which are skin healing.
Additionally oils such as thyme or oregano can be useful in treating infection and blends such as thieves oil can help clear the air.
Wounds can vary significantly. Infection vs pressure or disease can call for different treatment. In addition to essential oils carriers oils can also aid in healing in addition to other holistic treatments such as sterile manuka honey or silver ions. Other
If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for wound care or skin care please contact me.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
*Disclaimer: I am a certified aromatherapist and educator not a licensed health care professional. Essential oils can often be used in conjunction with traditional treatment with great success, but the information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images and information, contained on or available through this web site is for general information purposes only.
