Burns and scalds are painful, but there isn’t a way to avoid them if you are a cooking enthusiast. You may touch a hot pan or spill boiling water on your hands at some point, no matter how cautious you are. Thankfully, you can tend to most kitchen mishaps naturally with some simple remedies and medications at home. It makes sense to follow these measures unless burns and scalds are serious enough to require medical attention. Timing is crucial, so knowing these remedies and acting quickly can save you from pain and trouble. Here are some simple measures to handle kitchen mishaps naturally.
Cool water
The simplest way to handle a first or second-degree burn is by running cool water over the area. Soak the affected part in cool water for twenty minutes to cool down the skin. It will soothe the burn, reduce the pain, and even prevent further injury. As your skin cools down, the deeper layers will not get damaged. Once you feel better, you can move ahead with other remedies.
Cold compress
After your skin cools down, relieving pain and preventing swelling should be your top priorities. A cold compress can help with both. Place a clean wet cloth over the burn and apply in five to ten-minute intervals. However, do not use a compress for an extended period as it can irritate the skin. Also, make sure that you use clean cloth and water to steer clear of infection.
Honey ointment
A honey-based ointment can treat minor burns effectively because honey has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. If you want to opt for gentle treatment, choose this natural remedy for wounds and burns. You can try manuka honey ointment because it is safe, non-toxic, and easy to use. It cleanses, heals, and protects the wound from further damage. You can rely on it for preventing scarring in the long run, which is another concern for burn wounds.
Aloe vera gel
Applying aloe vera gel on the burn is another good idea because it promotes healing and soothes the pain. Like honey, aloe vera has a natural anti-inflammatory action, making it capable of reducing inflammation. Its antibacterial property prevents infection in the affected area. Keep a potted plant handy and simply cut the leaf to squeeze the gel in the event of a burn emergency.
Over-the-counter painkillers
You can expect pain for a few days after first-degree and second-degree burns, so topical remedies alone may not be enough. It may also be accompanied by swelling and redness over the affected area. You will need to add over-the-counter painkillers to your home treatment regimen to deal with the pain. Try a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) for effective and lasting relief from pain and inflammation.
Home treatment is the best option for less severe burns, but you must not skimp on medical treatment if they appear more serious. These natural remedies are safe and speed up recovery, so you can be back in the kitchen sooner than you imagine.
