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Boils - Editor's Choice

| Modified on Mar 08, 2025
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Turmeric, a Natural Remedy for Boil Treatment.

Boils are a common and painful skin infection caused by bacteria. Although antibiotics are usually prescribed to treat boils, natural remedies can also help reduce symptoms and speed up healing.

This comprehensive article highlights some of the top natural remedies for boils, such as turmeric, colloidal silver, and tea tree oil, and explains how to use them effectively.

Additionally, the article discusses the benefits of using echinacea, garlic, and warm compresses to treat boils. We'll also provide valuable information on distinguishing between boils and hidradenitis suppurativa, a chronic skin condition, and the similarities of MRSA or Staph with boils. Understanding the causes and symptoms of skin infections is crucial to taking effective preventive measures.

Boils, Hidradenitis Suppurativa, MRSA, and Staph: Understanding Skin Infections

Distinguishing Boils from Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Boils are a common type of skin infection caused by bacteria. They typically begin as a red, tender lump on the skin that gradually becomes larger and more painful. As the boil develops, it may fill with pus and eventually rupture, allowing the pus to drain out.

Hidradenitis suppurativa, on the other hand, is a chronic skin condition characterized by recurrent, painful nodules or abscesses that form in the apocrine glands of the skin. The condition is usually found in areas where skin rubs together, such as the armpits, groin, and buttocks. Unlike boils, hidradenitis suppurativa lesions can be deeper and more widespread, and may form interconnected abscesses, tunnels, and scars.

To distinguish between boils and hidradenitis suppurativa, it's important to consider the location and severity of the lesions. Boils are typically isolated and can occur anywhere on the body, whereas hidradenitis suppurativa lesions are usually found in specific areas and can be more extensive. Additionally, hidradenitis suppurativa lesions can be more painful and may persist for longer periods of time.

The Role of MRSA and Staph in Skin Infections

Both boils and hidradenitis suppurativa can be caused by Staphylococcus aureus (Staph) bacteria, including Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). MRSA is a type of Staph bacteria that has become resistant to many common antibiotics, making it more difficult to treat. Sometimes, MRSA can cause more severe and widespread infections than typical Staph infections.

It's important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have a boil or hidradenitis suppurativa, especially if the lesions are large, painful, or persistent. Your doctor can perform a physical exam and may take a sample of the pus to determine the type of bacteria causing the infection. Treatment may include antibiotics, drainage of the abscess, or other medical interventions depending on the severity of the infection.

The Risks of Antibiotics for Boils Treatment

While antibiotics are a common treatment for bacterial infections such as boils, their overuse can lead to antibiotic resistance and other health complications. This article highlights the top natural remedies for treating boils, such as turmeric, colloidal silver, tea tree oil, echinacea, garlic, and warm compresses.

Antibiotics may initially appear to treat the issue, but they can also make the boils dormant, as the infection is often resistant to this type of treatment. Additionally, antibiotics can change the natural balance of bacteria in the body, leading to additional issues such as diarrhea, yeast infections, and other infections. Therefore, it's important to consider natural remedies as an alternative to antibiotics when treating boils and to use antibiotics only when necessary and as prescribed by a healthcare professional.

Natural Remedies for Boils: Effective and Safe Treatments

Turmeric

Turmeric, the most popular boil remedy on Earth Clinic, a spice commonly used in Indian cuisine, contains a compound called curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Applying turmeric paste to the boil can help reduce inflammation and pain and prevent the spread of infection. To make a paste, mix 1 tablespoon of turmeric powder with enough water to form a thick paste. Apply the paste to the boil and cover it with a bandage. Leave it on for several hours or overnight, then rinse it off with warm water. Repeat the process once or twice a day until the boil is healed (1).

Colloidal Silver

Colloidal silver is a natural antibiotic used for centuries to treat infections. It works by disrupting the cell membranes of bacteria, preventing them from multiplying and causing further infection. Applying a colloidal silver gel or ointment to the boil can help reduce inflammation, prevent the spread of infection, and promote healing. Apply the gel or ointment to the boil and cover it with a bandage. Leave it on for several hours or overnight, then rinse it off with warm water. Repeat the process once or twice a day until the boil is healed (2).

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil, an essential oil derived from tea tree leaves, has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help treat boils. Applying tea tree oil directly to the boil can help reduce inflammation and pain and prevent the spread of infection. Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil such as coconut oil or olive oil and apply it to the boil using a cotton swab. Cover it with a bandage, leave it on for several hours or overnight, then rinse it with warm water. Repeat the process once or twice a day until the boil is healed (3).

Echinacea

Echinacea is a herb commonly used to boost the immune system and fight infections. Taking echinacea supplements or drinking echinacea tea can help boost the body's natural defenses and speed up the healing process of boils. It is recommended to take 300 mg of echinacea supplements or drink 2-3 cups of echinacea tea daily for up to 10 days (4).

Garlic

Garlic has antimicrobial properties that can help fight infections and boost the immune system. Applying garlic paste to the boil can help reduce inflammation and pain and prevent the spread of infection. Crush a few garlic cloves and mix them with a small amount of olive oil to make a paste. Apply the paste to the boil and cover it with a bandage. Leave it on for several hours or overnight, then rinse it off with warm water. Repeat the process once or twice a day until the boil is healed (5).

Warm Compress

A warm compress can help reduce inflammation and pain associated with boils. Soak a clean cloth in warm water and wring out the excess water. Place the warm compress on the boil for 10-15 minutes, 3-4 times a day. This will help bring the pus to the surface and promote healing (6).

In conclusion, natural remedies can be effective and safe treatments for boils, providing relief from painful symptoms and promoting faster healing. Turmeric, colloidal silver, tea tree oil, echinacea, garlic, and warm compresses are just a few of the many natural remedies available to manage the symptoms of boils. It's also important to consider the role of MRSA, Staph, and HS in skin infections and to use antibiotics only when necessary and as prescribed by a healthcare professional. By taking a holistic approach to treating boils, individuals can safely and effectively manage their symptoms and promote better overall skin health. Whether you prefer natural remedies or medical treatment, seeking professional medical advice and taking proactive steps to prevent and manage skin infections is key.

Below, Earth Clinic readers have shared their experiences and success stories with natural remedies for healing boils. From turmeric to tea tree oil, discover which natural remedies have worked the best for others and find relief for your skin.  Share your own experience with us!

Citations:

  1. Jurenka JS. Anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin, a major constituent of Curcuma longa: a review of preclinical and clinical research. Altern Med Rev. 2009 Jun;14(2):141-53. PMID: 19594223.
  2. Lansdown AB. Silver in health care: antimicrobial effects and safety in use. Curr Probl Dermatol. 2006;33:17-34. doi: 10.1159/000093928. PMID: 16766878.
  3. Carson CF, Hammer KA, Riley TV. Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea Tree) oil: a review of antimicrobial and other medicinal properties. Clin Microbiol Rev. 2006 Jan;19(1):50-62. doi: 10.1128/CMR.19.1.50-62.2006. PMID: 16418522; PMCID: PMC1360273.
  4. Hudson JB. Applications of the phytomedicine Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) in infectious diseases. J Biomed Biotechnol. 2012;2012:769896. doi: 10.1155/2012/769896. PMID: 22203880; PMCID: PMC3249731.
  5. Tsai YL, et al. Antibacterial effects of garlic-derived nanostructured materials on pathogenic bacteria. Materials Science and Engineering C. 2015;56:452-456. doi: 10.1016/j.msec.2015.06.005.
  6. Kneebone R. Wound healing and the role of nutrition. Br J Community Nurs. 2003 Nov;8(11 Suppl):S14-20. doi: 10.12968/bjcn.2003.8.Sup3.12044. PMID: 14704160.

Related Links:

Natural Remedies for MRSA: Effective Solutions for Infection Control
Natural Remedies for Staph Infections
Top Remedies for Hidradenitis Suppurativa

The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.
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Nutmeg

Posted by Rob (Kentucky) on 03/01/2021
 ★★★★★

Editor's Choice

@ Louise from the UK who wrote about turmeric for re-occurring boils on 2/27/21

Try Nutmeg Spice:

Turmeric works wonders on boils topically. But if you're having re-occurring outbreaks. The bacteria has gotten in deep into the tissue or even the bloodstream.

A have a friend that suffered from re-occurring boils that would pop-up all over his body for years. He is a picker. He picks at them. I've even seen him take a needle to pop them (bad idea) that's why I suspected the bacteria was in his blood. He spent thousand's of $$ with doctors and got no relief from them. Til one day when we were hanging out with a few friends, he was picking at the newest boil to come up on his knee so I asked him, “do you want to get rid of them”? He replied, there is no cure. Well...believe it or not, there is! I told him he had to do exactly what I said. No matter how stupid it sounded. He agreed to do as I said.

Here is the treatment plan:

Go buy a spice bottle of nutmeg. Put enough powdered spice on the back of your hand “about the size of a US dime coin”. Lick it up with your tongue and swallow. Do this once daily for 30 days. That's it! Sounds too simple.

Note: Burdock root tea can also be used but, nutmeg can be found at most grocery stores.

Now here are the results of what happened to his body over the 30 days:

He noticed that he was not getting new boils at about 15 days thru the treatment and by the end of the 30 days, the old boils had completely healed. I saw him about 6 months after that and asked him about his outbreaks. He said “no new boils”!

Nutmeg stimulates circulation in the body, which can help your body fight the bacterial infection in your boil. This will help to prevent boils from developing. Compounds in nutmeg have strong antibacterial and antifungal properties. Nutmeg is also a detoxifying agent. It cleanses the blood by increasing the effectiveness of all the body's elimination systems. Its diuretic effect helps the kidneys filter impurities from the blood. It helps push toxins out through the skin, and it also boosts the ability of the liver to remove toxins. By pushing toxins out through a variety of pathways, nutmeg can purify the blood with minimal side effects and with minimal stress to the body.

Camphor Spirits

Posted by Vivian (Missouri) on 12/06/2020
 ★★★★★

Editor's Choice

I have suffered with boils all my life. I have tried all the remedies, tea tree oil etc. nothing worked.

I started using camphor spirits. If caught at the first small bump it works great. Do not use on an open draining boil. Antibiotics work but getting in to see a doctor can be too late. Most doctors are at a loss with boils I have found. Draining can be painful and most doctors just don't have the time. I could write a medical book on boils, but no happy ending or fix.

Tomato

Posted by Michelle (NY) on 09/04/2019
 ★★★★★

Editor's Choice

Omg Tomatoe paste saved me from my pain. I came on here to find what works as this is the first (and hopefully only) boil I ever had. I saw the tomatoe paste posts and decided to give it a try. I slathered it on, covered it with gauze and then put a heating pad on top. Two hours later it started to drain. I've had it for 4 days now and it was showing no signs of coming to a head and was only getting worse.

This remedy works!

Onions

Posted by Oceanna (Wa) on 04/30/2018
 ★★★★★

Editor's Choice

In my family if we have a boil, or acne that won't head up, we simply apply a slice of onion and hold it in place with masking tape for a half hour, then remove. This will bring many infections to a head. After draining them we again apply the onion for another half hour to make sure it's drawn everything out. A friend of mine had a rabbit with a puss-filled sore on the top of its head and it was not responding to the vet's medication. She was afraid she would lose her rabbit. I told her about this and the next day she called to say, "It worked! You saved my rabbit's life!"

Turmeric

Posted by Cmdrexler18 (Gilbert, Arizona) on 05/25/2015
 ★★★★★

Editor's Choice

I never thought I would be on here writing a post about Turmeric because I was so skeptical but here I am. I got my first abscess probably about two years ago in the groin area (for anyone who suffers I feel your pain! ) I went straight away to my doctor's office to have it drained and honestly it was harmless, I don't remember being in all that much pain after I was numbed. Fast forward to about a month ago and I get a bump in the same area I had my first abscess but didn't think much of it because it had been so long ago. I was supposed to be taking a weekend trip to San Diego but I had no insurance at the time and this thing on my groin was growing and fast...I had no choice but to go to my local urgent care and paid around $175 to have it lanced and drained. This was THE most painful experience of my life, mind you I have had a collapsed lung and was hospitalized for 10 days, I would have rather gone through that again. The doctor on duty at the urgent care was actually wonderful talking me through the pain; I was by myself and did not expect this procedure to be this painful because of my last one but it was horrid. She had to give me two shots for the numbing because it had grown so much and then had break up the pus pocket that was connecting the two. Sorry for the description but long story short I wasn't able to go on my trip because I was still in pain from the packing. This healed up and about two weeks ago I started to feel the same area flare up, NO, I have another trip planned this time to Disneyland and if I have this it would make it physically impossible to walk the parks for three days. I had read about turmeric when I got the abscess prior but I really did not think it would work. I did have insurance now but a trip to urgent care would still be $100 and if I went to my doctor I would have to hope they were able to take me in before this thing got worse. I went to my local grocery store, Fry's, and found McCormick Ground Turmeric for less than 6 dollars and went home and began to drink it. I tried water and hated it, if you like tea try black breakfast tea, honey and about a teaspoon of turmeric powder but I would only suggest drinking that once or twice a day even as a tea drinker it became way too much hot liquids three times a day. I also bought yogurt and just had a spoonful with the powder and even though the taste wasn't great it was over in one spoonful three times a day and it's getting to the boil right away. I was in literal disbelief how quickly this began working, I even took pictures of my boil at the time just to make sure I wasn't going crazy and I would say within the first 24 hours the inflammation went down and five days later I was off to the Happiest Place on Earth. I got Turmeric pills at Walgreens for around $12.00 before my trip just because it was more convenient for my trip. I took one 450 mg morning and night during my trip and even with 10+ hours of walking in Disneyland it never flared up again. I had to come on here and write about my experience because if I can save anyone money and more importantly a traumatic experience of it being drained I am more than happy to. Turmeric will now be a staple in my household!!

Turmeric
Posted by Peachie (Macon, Georgia) on 10/10/2014
 ★★★★★

Editor's Choice

This absolutely works! I have tried many remedies from this lovely site and I get results all of the time. I had a very painful boil that was about the size of a quarter for 2 days. I made a paste of turmeric that I had in my spice rack and a few drops of water. I applied this paste directly to the boil and covered it with a band-aid. I kid you not, I had no pain in 3 minutes, and within 15 minutes, the boil opened and drained! I cleaned it up, re-applied more paste and the next morning it was completely flat and painless. Of course everybody is different, but this is an inexpensive remedy worth trying before putting lab made medicines into your temple.

Apple Cider Vinegar, Turmeric

Posted by Vaisnava (Visalia, California) on 03/16/2012
 ★★★★★

Editor's Choice

I have had recurring mrsa boils for some time now. This works every time without fail.

Mix 3 teaspoons Apple Cider Vinegar & 1/2 teaspoon baking soda in half glass of water and drink 2 times a day.

Also, twice a day add 1 teaspoon turmeric in half glass of warm water and drink. The earlier this treatment is started the faster it works, but relief starts within a day. I also topically apply triple antibiotic ointment.

*** Also remember to always wash your hands frequently after washing affected area or applying ointment.


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