Home remedies for minor cuts and scrapes
What's the story
Minor cuts and scrapes are a part of our daily lives.
Although they may not need a doctor's attention, caring for them is important to avoid infections and ensure faster healing.
From home remedies to over-the-counter medications, minor wounds can be dealt with easily.
Here are some simple and easily accessible ways to treat cuts and scrapes with household items.
Basic cleaning
Clean with soap and water
The first step in treating a minor cut/scrape is to clean it thoroughly with soap and water.
This helps remove dirt, debris, and bacteria that could lead to infection.
Use mild soap under running water for a few minutes to ensure the area is clean.
Avoid using harsh chemicals or scrubbing too hard as this can irritate the skin further.
Natural soothing
Apply aloe vera gel
Aloe vera gel has soothing properties and can be applied directly on cuts or scrapes.
It reduces inflammation while keeping the wound moisturized, which helps it heal faster.
Just apply a thin layer of aloe vera gel over the affected area two-three times a day until it heals completely.
Antiseptic properties
Use honey as an antiseptic
Honey has natural antiseptic properties that make it an effective remedy for minor wounds.
Applying honey on a cut or scrape can help prevent infection due to its antibacterial nature.
Spread a small amount of honey over the wound before covering it with a bandage for added protection.
Protection layer
Cover with bandages or gauze
Covering cuts/scrapes with bandage/ gauze is important to keep the area safe from dirt and bacteria. It also helps in air circulation, which is important for the healing process.
Change the bandages at least once a day or even more often if they get wet/dirty. This helps in keeping the area clean and protects the wound site from possible infections.
Reduce swelling
Elevate if possible
Elevating the injury above heart level may help reduce swelling due to reduced blood flow toward it.
This especially comes in handy if you notice swelling around larger scrapes on limbs such as arms or legs.
Gravity plays a more prominent role in the accumulation of fluids in tissues surrounding injury sites themselves.