burns

Mahes Visvalingam
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Burns : Aloe Vera
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There are many traditional treatments for burns. I have used Aloe Vera successfully for minor burns and scalds for over 25 years. Earlier this year (2006), I burnt the upper side of my hand above the wrist while trying to get a roasting tin out of a hot oven. I had pushed the tin too far into the oven and tried to ease it out from underneath. My hand touched the base, where the element is, and the skin charred and came off showing red and white flesh beneath in an area the size of a 2 pence coin. Needless to say, it was very painful. I tore a leaf off the Aloe Vera plant, split the leaf and rubbed the slimy content on the burn - and carried on cooking the meal. I thought I will be scarred for life. But, the skin gradually grew into the burnt area and joined where it met along a T-join. Since it did not trouble me, I forgot all about it and only later did I realise that the burn had not left a scar. I do not know if it will have the same effect on others. I heal quite quickly but I would advise others to show severe burns (even small ones) to a doctor in case it gets infected.

In 2019, I had to sign a consent form agreeing that the removal of a 10 pence sized fleshy mole would leave a permanent scar. I agreed. The mole was cut out and the skin was cauterised (burnt) to seal the wound to minimise infection. I was sent home with just Vaseline (petroleum jelly) smeared over the area with a loose dressing over it. I left it alone for a couple of days just putting more dressing on to pad it. Two days later, I took off the dressing, washed the area with salt water (which stung) and then applied Aloe Vera slime straight from the plant and covered it with dressing. I repeated this and watched the skin grow inwards to cover the whole area which initially looked a bit darker but the skin is now back to normal and even I cannot tell where the mole had been.

When I have had minor burns which I did not treat with Aloe Vera, the skin has developed a scar. Aloe Vera can also help with the debridement (removal) of corns. Every home should have Aloe Vera plants. I was given a large plant once but it looked different and did not have the same effect. If you search for Aloe Vera/images you will find a very large variety. I know that not all seem to have the same effect. My plant is similar to this. So, I propagate my plants and give them away as gifts from Nature and me.

SUMMARY of our observations to date of treatments which have and have not worked.

Positive outcome

Zero or negative outcome for us

Aloe Vera

Honey

I have not tried this since the products seem to be so variable. But, honey is excellent for diabetic ulcers and wound healing.

Tea tree oil

I seem to be allergic to the primary content or aspects of preparation of the oil. I am still very uncertain about this cure. I would imagine that it would cause a burning sensation while Aloe Vera is soothing.