Frost bite is caused by either prolonged exposure to cold or short duration of exposure to severe cold conditions. It is commonly found to occur in the limbs because exposure to cold rushes the blood to the centre of the body like heart to keep the insides warm which reduces the blood circulation in the extremities. Also it is usually the hands, arms and limbs that have higher risk of exposure. People who work with water, mountaineers and living in extremely cold climates have been found to be vulnerable to frostbite due to their living conditions. The treatment of frostbite depends on its severity which ranges from mild to extreme.
Mild to medium frostbite can be treated quite easily and may take 5-10 days for completely healing. However severe frostbite needs urgent medical attention and in some cases may also necessitate amputation. Symptoms of frost bite includes skin lesions and its hardening. The frostbitten part is very painful, shows a red tinge, paleness and numbness. In this feature we will discuss various natural cures for mild to medium frostbite that are used around the world. You can use this remedies along with any medication that you might be prescribed by the doctor.
8 Natural Cures For Frost Bite
Aloe Vera
Using Aloe Vera to alleviate the symptoms of frostbite is an ancient remedy and is popularly used in many countries. Aloe Vera moisturizes, reduces inflammation and has regenerative properties. All the three properties are important in treating the frostbite.
This condition causes the skin to harden due to formation of crystals under the skin tissue. If not taken care of, the skin begins to peel. Aloe Vera takes care of this condition. The regeneration of skin tissue is necessary in frostbite, the new skin develops and replaces the old and dead skin cells. The new healthy cells lead to speedy cure of frostbite.
Potato
Potato has anti-inflammatory properties and is also used to restore skin’s natural colour. This is why it is recommended for dark under eye circles and for reducing the blemishes on the skin. Take some potato and grate it. Add strictly lukewarm water so that the potato pieces get soaked in it. Do not pour more water than the level of grated potatoes in a bowl or vessel.
Dip the frostbitten part in this solution. You may even prepare potato paste with a pinch of turmeric and apply it on the affected area. Turmeric is also known for its anti-inflammatory and pro-immunity properties. It also aids in the healing and repair of body tissue.
Almonds
Almonds are rich in Vitamin E which is the main compound our body uses for growing new tissues and repair the same. Therefore, it is natural to consume and apply solutions that are rich in vitamin E. Soak 5-6 almonds overnight and make a paste out of them next morning using Aloe Vera for giving it the consistency of paste.
Apply this mixture on the frostbite for relief. After this procedure, heat some Almond oil until it is warm and apply it on the frostbite. Warm oil will soothe the frostbite and continue to expedite the skin repair.
Ginger
As mentioned in earlier segments, the peripheral blood flow is little lethargic when the body is exposed to extremely cold climate. This becomes worse when you have frostbite on your extremities. Ginger is a herb which is known to regulate healthy blood circulation and help the blood in reaching the peripheral parts of the body.
It basically maintains the fluidity of the blood throughout. For using the benefits of ginger, you may prepare some ginger infused tea and consume it while it’s warm. Alternatively, consume some crushed ginger with honey. Honey is anti-bacterial in nature and will prevent occurrence of infection in the frostbitten area.
Banana Peel
Studies have shown that using traditional remedy of using banana peel in cases of frostbite is actually very effective. Banana peel reduces the swelling caused in and around the frostbitten area.
Rub the peel gently on the affected area. For increasing the lubrication to avoid friction or risking peeling of skin, you may apply a layer of Aloe Vera or Almond oil on the internal part of the peel and rub on the skin for relief.
Eat Right
Eating the right type of food is important. Many fruits, vegetables and other food stuff have warm properties which make them ideal for consumption when the climate is cold or your body suffers from cold related issues. Take some milk and add one crushed date with 2-3 crushed almonds. Boil these three together for about 15 minutes or until the milk is reduced to half the original quantity.
Consume this solution specifically before going to sleep. Milk with turmeric is also good for body’s healing. Avoid eating junk food, saturated fats, processed and refined flour and sugar. Eat a lot of oily fish like mackerel and salmon, dairy products, eggs, walnuts and cod liver oil, these are rich in omega3 fatty acids which are considered anti-inflammatory in nature.
Oiling
Applying different types of oils on the affected area is ideal way of dealing with the frostbite. Avoid massaging the frostbitten area. Just apply some warm oil and lightly wrap the lesion in order to lock the moisturizer and letting it do its work.
Warm coconut oil, mustard oil and olive oil are known for their healing and moisturizing properties. Add some turmeric to increase the potency of these oils. Applying Neem oil is also considered good for such lesions as it is anti-microbial in nature also.
Other Tips
Remove jewellery from the frostbitten area immediately as it can either get stuck or constrict the blood supply. Remove tight clothing and keep yourself completely relaxed. This encourages good blood circulation.
Do not smoke as the nicotine negatively affects the blood circulation and increases inflammation. Drinking alcohol is a big “NO”, as alcohol reduces the blood supply to peripheries and numbs the senses. Do not expose the affected area to excessive heat. For e.g. direct exposure to fire or dipping hands in hot water can cause more damage than benefit.
Caution: Please use Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.
