Are you a creative but clumsy cook who often burns him or herself in the kitchen? An easy remedy is quickly available.

Studies in India have found that potato peels applied to skin burns increased the speed of recovery while also decreasing scarring and pain. Doctors and researchers compared plain gauze dressings with potato peels held on by gauze and discovered that the potato peels were more effective than gauze alone.

The moist underside of the potato peel traps moisture next to the skin to prevent it from drying out and has minor antibacterial properties which help in the prevention of infections. It is this moisture which makes the peels so effective as a moist wound will heal faster than a painful dry wound.

Potato peels also do not stick to the skin so are not painful when removed.

While there appears to be no ‘first world’ studies documenting the use of potato skins versus the most modern dressings and creams in the ‘acute phase’ or immediately following the burn, a study by the Belgian Red Cross concluded that there was a benefit of using potato skins over plain gauze in the healing phase.

Studies and health forums discuss both cooked and raw peels and both seem to be effective, so if you are looking for a proven home remedy for burns reach for a potato.

Do seek medical attention for severe burns or burns on the hands, feet, face or genitals. Also do not attempt to pierce any blisters that may form as they provide a protective layer over the wound that allows the skin underneath to heal.

There are also other remedies for minor burns which can be found around the house and garden.

The juice or gel from an aloe vera plant can alleviate the heat and pain from a minor burn and also aid in the skin’s natural healing process. Simply cut off a leaf and squeeze the juice onto the burn.

Aloe vera also contains natural antiseptic properties so helps stop the burn wound from becoming infected.

The internet is full of claims about various other home remedies for burns but also advise the standard running the burn under cold water for a few minutes.

If you are interested in other potential home remedies speak with a pharmacist or herbal remedy expert, you do not want to use something that makes the effects of the burn worse.

Share This

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

About the author

Elisha Stephens
I am a Public Relations and Media Studies student at Massey University in Wellington NZ. I am also a fabulous baker and bartender and enjoy cooking for my friends and family.