Home Remedies and Treatments for Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS)
What is Hidradenitis Suppurativa?
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a painful, chronic skin condition that is very difficult to treat. HS begins when clogged hair follicles cause lesions that can lead to abscesses, inflammation, and more.
Treatment - Complementary and Alternative Medicines
With very little help from the medical community, many people with HS turn to alternative therapies to help with their symptoms related to HS. While these therapies may help many, these may not fit your condition or lifestyle. Discussing these options with your doctor may help manage some of the symptoms related to HS. Selection of various treatments depends on how severe your symptoms are and any additional health conditions you might have.
Does Botanical Delights Offer Essential Oil Products for HS?
Yes! We have a complete essential oils product line for HS. Our owner and creator, Andrea, has a long-time friend with HS and she was determined to give her some relief from this dreadful disease. After many revisions and trials, this product line gave her friend amazing relief.
Zinc
Zinc is an essential mineral. Zinc is found in some foods and is also available as a natural supplement. Zinc has many functions in the body. Deficiencies of zinc have been linked to skin problems and problems with immune system functions. Some studies have shown that zinc may be beneficial for some people with HS to improve immune system function. Zinc can cause problems if too much is taken.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a flowering plant of the ginger family. Turmeric has been used medicinally for years in traditional Indian medicine, as well as Chinese and Eastern Asian medicine. Curcumin is an active component of turmeric. Today, curcumin is promoted as having anti-inflammatory benefits and is used as a supplement for a variety of conditions. Because of various side effects of prescribed medications that work on the immune system, turmeric and curcumin may be a helpful alternative.
Tea tree oil and other Essential Oils
Tea tree oil comes from the leaves of the tea tree. This has been used traditionally for many years as a therapy to help decrease bacterial growth on the skin. This may help with some of the painful growths on your skin. Tea tree oil should not be swallowed and is applied to the skin only.
Witch hazel
Witch hazel is a liquid that is distilled from the dried leaves, bark, and trees of the witch hazel plant. This liquid has been used as an alternative treatment for various skin conditions, including HS. Witch hazel has been used for relief of skin itching and inflammation. Witch hazel has also been used in moist compresses to promote drainage of abscesses in HS.
Manuka honey Manuka honey is a rich, dark honey with known antimicrobial properties. Research has shown that manuka honey has medicinal properties for healing wounds. The honey is applied directly to the wounds in an effort to promote healing.
Conclusion
When considering complementary and alternative therapy for HS, reach out to your doctor. Like approved medical treatments, complementary and alternative therapies are not always appropriate for everyone. Having the conversation with your doctor first is a good first step when wanting to implement these therapy choices for treating the symptoms related to HS.
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