Abscesses, also called boils, are little pockets of infection (or pus) sometimes as small as the area of an ingrown hair. Common abscesses will be reduced by the anti-inflammatory, detoxifying, and healing properties of essential oils.
Alone or combined, some suggested essential oils for abscesses are:
• Eucalyptus
• Helichrysum
• Lavender
• Myrrh
• Tea tree
Safety First
Be aware of the severity or cause of an abscess. When in doubt always consult your healthcare professional.
The goal with abscesses is to gently draw out the infection so that it can dry out when it reaches the surface. Using essential oils in the following ways may help.
• Hot compress. Add your essential oils to a warm or hot compress to boost their benefits and help draw out the infection.
• Simple application. Mix together 3 to 5 drops of the essential oils highlighted here with a teaspoon of coconut oil, and apply it to the affected area three or more times a day using a clean cotton ball.
• Soothing soak. Whether you soak your whole body in a bath or just the affected area, combining warm water with essential oils can help draw out the infection.
Natural Partners for Aromatherapy
For maximum results, combine your essential-oil therapy with these other natural remedies:
• Add salt. Applying a compress soaked in warm water and Epsom salts can help.
• Apply a poultice. Apply an even mixture of turmeric powder and milk, air dry, then rinse.
• Leave it alone. Not picking at or popping the abscess is crucial to minimizing the infection.
When you want those painful bumps to go away, try essential oils with these cleansing recipes.
Help fight an infection by adding antibacterial oils to a hot compress as a treatment for an abscess.
4 drops tea-tree oil
3 drops lavender oil
2 drops myrrh oil
1 tablespoon carrier oil
1 cup warm or hot water
1 clean washcloth
Combine the oils in a large glass bowl, then stir in the water. Soak the washcloth in the water, wring it out, and apply it to the abscess. Hold it there until the washcloth comes to room temperature. Repeat the process with a fresh cloth, as needed.
Make an extra amount of this powerful bath blend to use whenever needed throughout the day. The combination of oils, Epsom salts, and hot water will help draw out infection.
12 drops lavender oil
10 drops tea-tree oil
2 tablespoons coconut oil
1 cup Epsom salts
½ cup coarse sea salt
½ cup baking soda
1 dark-glass pint jar
In a large glass bowl, combine the oils. Add in the Epsom salts, sea salt, and baking soda and whisk to combine. Pour the mixture into your glass jar. Add ¼ to ½ cup of the blend to a comfortably hot bath.