Written By: Anusuya Suresh | Updated : March 19, 2014 11:45 AM IST
Nothing conveys the wonderful innate healing power of the human body as beautifully as the way it responds to a tiny cut or scrape. As soon as there is some disruption of the skin, there is a seeping out of the serum into the wound; this is rich in antibodies that act against any microorganisms that may seek entry through the disrupted skin. Simultaneously, a greater amount of blood is routed to the wounded area to ensure it receives nutrition as well as white blood cells that fight against infection. In a few days, you notice a layer of pus which contains dead bacteria as well as white blood cells below a thick scab that protects the skin where the wound is healing. Although the body has this highly effective defense system, it can always do with some help and a few natural remedies can hasten the healing process.
Turmeric
Turmeric is one of nature's best antibiotics and can be applied directly onto a cut or wound. It contains curcumin that has antioxidant property and also helps to reduce the levels of certain enzymes that cause inflammation. To use turmeric for a minor cut or wound, just take a pinch between your thumb and forefinger and hold it firmly against the injured area. Not only does it stop the bleeding, this also prevents infection at the site and helps the wound heal faster. (Read: Turmeric or Haldi health benefits galore!)
Honey
Honey has an antibacterial property because it can produce hydrogen peroxide that helps to kill bacteria. Even a variety such as Manuka Honey which does not produce hydrogen peroxide, shows an antibacterial effect and this is believed to be because of the low pH level and high content of sugar that prevents microbes from growing. Besides, honey also helps to keep the wound moist and this helps to speed up the healing process. To use honey on a wound, place a few drops on sterile gauze and apply directly to the site after cleaning it free of dust.
Garlic
One of the oldest remedies in most folk medicines, garlic is good for small cuts and wounds because it has an antibacterial action. It contains an ingredient called allicin that has a protective action against infection. Peel two to three cloves of garlic, mince and extract the juice; then mix 1 part of this juice with 3 parts of boiled and cooled water and use the solution to wash the wound. Make sure you don't avoid garlic to directly come in contact with broken skin because it may cause irritation. (Read: 15 health benefits of garlic)
Aloe Vera
One of the best natural remedies for cuts and small wounds is sitting right on your window sill aloe vera. The sap from the aloe plant has ingredients that help to soothe the irritation at the site of a wound especially in case of sores. Simply break off a leaf of aloe vera and allow the sap to drip onto the affected area. Repeat a few times in a day for greater relief. (Read: Aloe vera: Beauty benefits for all skin types)
Tulsi
Tulsi leaves are rich in compounds that have an antiseptic action and help in wound healing. To make use of this remedy, wash a few leaves of tulsi thoroughly and grind them into a paste. Apply this paste to the wound using a cotton ball. Alternatively, you can also boil a few tulsi leaves in water and after cooling, use this water to wash the wound. (Read: Top 10 health benefits of tulsi)
Papaya
Papaya contains enzymes that have a proteolytic (protein-dissolving) effect; it also contains an alkaloid called carpaine that has antibacterial action. It is also believed that papaya may improve the activity of the white blood cells that kill bacteria. This makes papaya an effective remedy against minor wounds. Take a little pulp of the ripe papaya, mash it into a fine paste and apply over the affected skin; wash it off after some time. (Read: 11 health benefits of papayas)
When we get a cut or small wound, most of us rush to wash the affected area with water or an antiseptic liquid, apply an antibacterial cream and cover the area with sticking plaster. But don't panic if you don't have the cream in your first aid box in most cases, when the wound is a minor one, one of the natural remedies mentioned here will work just as well.
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