Cuts and Grazes

Cuts and grazes are a common occurrence and need to be treated swiftly in order to prevent infection.  Initially it is important to thoroughly cleanse the area with a saline solution, after which an anti-bacterial cream or gel can be applied. Natural substances such as Manuka Honey and Tea tree oil are renowned for their anti-bacterial properties; the UMF or ‘Unique Manuka Factor’ rating found on Manuka honeys indicates the strength of the honey’s anti-bacterial action – the higher the UMF the stronger the ‘bacteria-killing’ properties. Topically applying Manuka Honey with a high UMF or using a cream such as Medihoney’s Antibacterial Wound Relief until the wound has closed over will help to prevent infection.

Once the cut or graze has healed most people are concerned about the scarring which is often left. To prevent scarring the body needs optimal nutrition levels in order to repair – nutrients such as Zinc, Vitamin C & protein are used for repair of the skin and decrease the incidence of infection. Vitamin E can be applied topically to assist the skin to mesh & repair – Rosehip Oil is a natural source of Vitamin E & is known for its ability to reduce scarring. Massaging Rosehip Oil or a cream containing Rosehip (such as Rosa’s Scarless Healer) helps to keep the skin supple & minimise scar tissue.

Cuts & Grazes are particularly common in children & are usually accompanied by a lot of tears & distress. Having first aid flower essence support on-hand helps to calm, soothe & decrease the emotional stress. Flower essences function on an energetic level to balance the nervous system & reduce shock; a few drops of Rescue Remedy or Emergency Essence every 30 minutes will assist the body to heal not only physically but also emotionally & mentally.

Updates - 24 October 2014

Gouin, J & Kiecolt-Glaser, J (2011), ‘The Impact of Psychological Stress onWound Healing: Methods and Mechanisms’, Immunology and Allergy Clinics of North America, Volume 31, Issue 1, pp: 81-93.
 

There is more and more evidence that psychological stress can impair the healing of wounds (including cuts and grazes).  This has been seen in both observational studies of people, and studies where they subjected animals to stress to see how they healed. A number of factors come into play, but some include the influence of stress hormones on immune function and the behaviours that people used to cope with stress (which are often damaging to health e.g. drinking alcohol).

So in order to heal fastest? As my doctor says “stay cool, calm and collected”. If you need some help with this, read our information on Stress or chat with your Naturopath or Counsellor.

Vive Health Naturopaths recommend the following products for Cuts and Grazes:

NOTE: Consideration should always be given to individual requirements.  Please consider seeing a qualified practitioner before commencing a new treatment protocol or when combining supplements with pharmaceutical medication.

For more information on Cuts and Grazes or to ask a Qualified Naturopath a question Click Here.