By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 19, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Boils
Herbal creams for boils are topical treatments infused with natural herbs and ingredients that help alleviate the symptoms of boils, a painful and often uncomfortable skin condition.
These creams, often containing tea tree oil, aloe vera, and chamomile, work by reducing inflammation and fighting bacterial infections. Examples of herbal creams that help with boils include calendula cream and neem cream.
By using these creams, individuals can find relief from the pain and discomfort of boils, improving their quality of life and reducing the need for antibiotics.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for boils, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Calendula officinalis
- 2. Aloe vera
- 3. Melaleuca alternifolia
- 4. Echinacea angustifolia
- 5. Zingiber officinale
- 6. Lavandula angustifolia
- 7. Hamamelis virginiana
- 8. Arnica montana
- 9. Thymus vulgaris
- 10. Plantago major
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for boils?
- What ailments similar to boils are treated with herbal creams?
1. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with boils because of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The cream's active compounds, such as triterpenoids and flavonoids, work together to reduce inflammation and combat bacterial infections that cause boils.
Calendula's soothing and protective properties also promote wound healing, helping to prevent scarring and promote the growth of healthy tissue, ultimately aiding in the resolution of boil infections and promoting a faster recovery.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with boils.
- Triterpene saponins: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce the severity of boils and prevent further infection.
- Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to soothe and calm the skin, reduce swelling and pain associated with boils, and prevent further damage.
- Nascentin: This compound has been shown to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to combat bacterial infections and reduce inflammation associated with boils, promoting faster healing and reducing the risk of scarring.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for boils.
- Flowers: They are rich in anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to soothe and heal boils.
- Leaves: They contain antioxidants and other beneficial compounds that can aid in the reduction of inflammation and promote wound healing.
- Seeds: Although not as widely used as flowers, seeds from Calendula officinalis are sometimes used to add additional anti-inflammatory properties to creams for boils.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for boils.
- Harvest fresh calendula flowers during the blooming season for optimal potency and medicinal properties in 2 to 3 hours.
- Infuse 1 cup of dried calendula flowers in 2 cups of carrier oil such as coconut or jojoba oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container for 30 minutes.
- Mix 1 cup of the infused oil with 1/2 cup of beeswax and 1/4 cup of shea butter in a double boiler for 30 minutes.
- Remove the double boiler from heat and let the mixture cool and solidify before whipping into a smooth cream in 1 hour.
2. Aloe vera
Aloe vera, also known as aloe, creams helps with boils because of its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
The gel from the aloe plant has been used for centuries to soothe and heal various skin issues, including boils. Aloe vera creams can reduce swelling and redness, while also fighting off the bacterial infections that cause boils.
Additionally, aloe vera has antiseptic properties that help prevent further infection and promote a faster recovery, making it an effective treatment for boils.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera creams that help with boils.
- Acemannan: This polysaccharide constituent has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce swelling and pain associated with boils.
- Anthraquinones: Compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin in Aloe vera have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help to combat bacterial infections and reduce inflammation in the affected area.
- Vitamins and minerals: These antioxidants help to reduce oxidative stress and promote wound healing by protecting the skin from damage caused by free radicals, thereby reducing the risk of infection and promoting the resolution of boils.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make creams for boils.
- Leaves: Gelly or Gel
- Leaves: Aloe Vera Juice
- Leaves: Aloe Vera Extract
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for boils.
- Melt 1 cup of shea butter in a double boiler over low heat for about 10 minutes.
- Whisk 1/2 cup of beeswax into the melted shea butter mixture until it's fully incorporated.
- Add 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel to the mixture and whisk until smooth consistency is achieved.
- Add 10 drops of vitamin e oil and 10 drops of lavender oil to the mixture and whisk well.
- Pour the mixture into a container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
3. Melaleuca alternifolia
Melaleuca alternifolia, also known as tea tree, creams helps with boils because of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The active compound, terpinen-4-ol, has been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause infection. Additionally, the cream's soothing and cooling effects can help reduce pain and inflammation, allowing the boil to heal faster.
The natural antiseptic properties of tea tree oil also help prevent further infection, promoting a faster recovery and reducing the risk of scarring.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melaleuca alternifolia creams that help with boils.
- Cineole: Cineole, also known as eucalyptol, has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce the severity of boils by preventing the growth of bacteria and minimizing inflammation.
- Linalool: Linalool has antimicrobial and antiseptic properties, which help to reduce the risk of infection and promote the healing of boils by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms.
- Caryophyllene oxide: Caryophyllene oxide has potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce the severity of boils by preventing the growth of bacteria and minimizing inflammation, thereby promoting the healing of affected skin.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make creams for boils.
- Leaves: The essential oil extracted from the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia is used to make creams for boils due to its antimicrobial properties.
- Stems: The essential oil extracted from the stems of Melaleuca alternifolia is used to make creams for boils due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Barks: The essential oil extracted from the barks of Melaleuca alternifolia is used to make creams for boils due to its antiseptic properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for boils.
- Harvest 2 cups of fresh melaleuca alternifolia leaves by hand or with a pruning tool at dawn or dusk.
- Steam distill the harvested leaves to extract the essential oil for 3 hours using a distillation apparatus.
- Combine 1 tablespoon of beeswax with 1 tablespoon of shea butter and 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Add 10 drops of the melaleuca alternifolia essential oil to the beeswax mixture and stir until fully incorporated over 10 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into a tin mold and allow it to cool and solidify for at least 30 minutes.
4. Echinacea angustifolia
Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas coneflower, creams helps with boils because of its potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The cream's active compounds work to reduce swelling and inflammation, drawing out the infection and promoting healing. The antiseptic properties of Echinacea angustifolia cream also help to prevent the boil from spreading, reducing the risk of further infection.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to combat skin issues, providing a soothing and effective solution for boil sufferers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia creams that help with boils.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds, particularly echinacoside, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the swelling and redness associated with boils.
- Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds, including kaempferol and quercetin, possess antimicrobial properties that can help combat bacterial infections often responsible for boils.
- Alkaloids: These compounds have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help regulate the body's immune response and reduce the severity of boils.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make creams for boils.
- Roots: They are the primary source of Echinacea's medicinal properties, which are believed to help reduce inflammation and fight infection.
- Flowers: Their extracts are known for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making them effective in treating boils and other skin infections.
- Leaves: While not as widely used as roots, leaves are sometimes used in creams for their potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can aid in wound healing and reducing the severity of boils.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for boils.
- Harvest 1/2 cup of echinacea angustifolia roots in the fall when the plant is dry and the roots are mature.
- Dry the harvested roots in a low-temperature oven at 150°f for 2 hours to preserve them.
- Grind the dried roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle.
- Mix 1/4 cup of the echinacea powder with 1/2 cup of beeswax in a double boiler to melt them.
- Whip the mixture with 1/4 cup of coconut oil and 1 tablespoon of vitamin e oil until it thickens.
5. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, creams helps with boils because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
The active compounds present in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, have been found to reduce swelling and pain associated with boils. Additionally, ginger's antimicrobial properties help combat the bacterial infections that cause boils, promoting a faster healing process.
The cream's soothing and cooling effects also provide relief from discomfort and itching, making it an effective natural remedy for treating boils.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale creams that help with boils.
- Gingerol: Gingerol has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the redness and swelling associated with boils.
- Shogaol: Shogaol possesses antimicrobial properties, which can help combat bacterial infections that can cause boils.
- Curcumin: Curcumin has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent the formation of pus in boils.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make creams for boils.
- Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes are used due to their antimicrobial properties, which help in reducing the growth of bacteria that cause boils.
- Buds: The buds are used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which help in soothing and calming the affected skin area.
- Roots: The roots are used due to their antioxidant properties, which help in protecting the skin from damage and promoting healing of boils.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for boils.
- Infuse 1 cup of zingiber officinale root in 2 cups of carrier oil for 2 weeks to extract its properties.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean container to remove the solids.
- Mix 1/2 cup of the infused oil with 1/4 cup of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of shea butter in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture in the double boiler for 10 minutes to melt the beeswax and combine the ingredients.
- Allow the mixture to cool and solidify at room temperature for 30 minutes before whipping it into a cream.
6. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, creams helps with boils because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The active compounds, including linalool and linalyl acetate, work to reduce redness and swelling associated with boils. Additionally, the antiseptic properties of English lavender cream help to prevent bacterial infections from spreading and promote the healing of affected skin.
This natural remedy can provide relief from the discomfort and pain caused by boils, making it a popular choice for those seeking a holistic approach to skin care.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia creams that help with boils.
- Linalool: This terpene has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help reduce the inflammation and fight the infection associated with boils.
- Lavandulol: This sesquiterpene acts as a natural antiseptic and antifungal agent, helping to prevent the spread of infection and promote healing in the affected area.
- Luteolin: This flavonoid has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce the swelling and pain associated with boils, as well as promote wound healing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make creams for boils.
- Leaves: Known for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe and reduce the infection associated with boils.
- Flowers: Rich in antiseptic and antifungal properties, which aid in preventing the spread of infection and promoting wound healing.
- Seeds: Containing compounds like linalool, which exhibit antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to calm the skin and reduce boil inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for boils.
- Harvest fresh lavandula angustifolia flowers and leaves in the early morning when the oil content is highest for 5 minutes.
- Dry the harvested lavandula angustifolia flowers and leaves in a well-ventilated area for 2 weeks at room temperature.
- Steep 100g of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers and leaves in 1 liter of carrier oil at 40 degrees celsius for 2 hours.
- Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth and discard the solids then transfer the oil to a clean container for 10 minutes.
- Mix 200g of beeswax with 200g of shea butter and 100g of the infused oil to create a smooth cream in 30 minutes.
7. Hamamelis virginiana
Hamamelis virginiana, also known as American witch hazel, creams helps with boils because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
The Hamamelis extract reduces swelling and redness associated with boils, while its antibacterial properties prevent infections from spreading. The cream also helps to dry out the boil, bringing it to a head and allowing it to heal faster. By reducing inflammation and preventing infection, Hamamelis virginiana cream can help to alleviate the discomfort and pain associated with boils.
This natural remedy can be an effective and soothing solution.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hamamelis virginiana creams that help with boils.
- Tannins: Tannins in Hamamelis virginiana help reduce inflammation and combat bacterial infections that cause boils, making it an effective topical treatment.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Hamamelis virginiana exhibit antimicrobial and antiseptic properties, which help prevent the spread of infection and promote healing of boils.
- Hamamelitannin: Hamamelitannin, a unique compound found in Hamamelis virginiana, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which contribute to its effectiveness in treating boils and other skin conditions.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of american witch hazel used to make creams for boils.
- Roots: Roots are used due to their high concentration of tannins, which have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Buds: Buds are used for their astringent and antiseptic properties, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent infection in boils.
- Leaves: Leaves are used due to their high content of hamamelitannin, a compound with antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help treat boils and other skin irritations.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic american witch hazel for boils.
- Harvest 1/4 cup of fresh hamamelis virginiana leaves and flowers by cutting them with scissors in early morning.
- Steep the harvested hamamelis virginiana leaves and flowers in 2 cups of hot water for 10 minutes.
- Strain the infusion through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl and discard the solids.
- Mix 1/2 cup of beeswax with 1/2 cup of coconut oil and heat the mixture in a double boiler for 5 minutes.
- Combine the cooled hamamelis virginiana infusion with the melted beeswax and coconut oil mixture and whip until thickened.
8. Arnica montana
Arnica montana, also known as mountain arnica, creams helps with boils because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The active compounds in Arnica, such as sesquiterpene lactones, have been shown to reduce swelling and pain associated with boils. The cream's ability to promote blood flow and reduce bacterial growth also helps to accelerate the healing process and prevent further inflammation, making it an effective natural remedy for soothing and calming the affected area.
This leads to faster recovery and reduced scarring.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Arnica montana creams that help with boils.
- Sesquiterpene lactones: These compounds, particularly helenalin and dihydrohelenalin, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help reduce inflammation and prevent infection in boils.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Arnica, such as kaempferol and quercetin, possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which aid in soothing and calming the skin, reducing redness and swelling associated with boils.
- Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids, including arnicin and arnicolic acid, show anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, helping to reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation in boils, while also promoting wound healing and tissue repair.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of mountain arnica used to make creams for boils.
- Flowers: Used due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties which help reduce boil inflammation and prevent infection.
- Leaves: Utilized for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in soothing boil pain and reducing swelling.
- Roots: Employed for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help combat boil infection and reduce inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic mountain arnica for boils.
- Harvest 50-100g of dried arnica montana flowers and leaves from a trusted supplier or wildcrafted source.
- Infuse 100g of arnica montana in 500ml of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil for 2-3 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth and discard the solids then add 10g of beeswax and 10g of cocoa butter.
- Melt the oil and wax mixture in a double boiler over low heat for 15-20 minutes stirring occasionally.
- Remove the melted mixture from heat and stir in 5-7 drops of lavender essential oil then pour into containers.
9. Thymus vulgaris
Thymus vulgaris, also known as thyme, creams helps with boils because of its antibacterial properties.
Thyme contains compounds like carvacrol and thymol, which have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, a common cause of boils. By applying thyme cream to the affected area, it can help to reduce inflammation, ease pain, and promote healing.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to treat various skin infections, including boils, making it a popular choice for those seeking an alternative to harsh medications.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris creams that help with boils.
- Thymol: Thymol is a phenolic compound that helps with boils by reducing bacterial growth, specifically Staphylococcus aureus, which is a common cause of skin infections.
- Carvacrol: Carvacrol is a phenolic monoterpene that helps with boils by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, reducing redness and swelling associated with boils.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid is a phenolic diterpene that helps with boils by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thereby reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make creams for boils.
- Leaves: Thyme leaves contain thymol, a natural antiseptic and antibacterial compound that helps to prevent infection and promote healing.
- Stems: Thyme stems also contain thymol, which is often used in combination with other ingredients to create a soothing and healing effect on boils.
- Buds: Thyme buds are rich in essential oils, including thymol, which helps to reduce inflammation and prevent infection in boils.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for boils.
- Harvest fresh thymus vulgaris leaves in the morning after dew has evaporated with scissors to prevent bruising.
- Clean and dry the leaves thoroughly in a clean environment to prevent contamination by air flow for 30 minutes.
- Mix 20 grams of dried thymus vulgaris leaves with 100 grams of a base oil such as sweet almond oil in a clean container.
- Steep the mixture in a double boiler at 40°c for 2 hours to allow the herbal properties to infuse into the oil.
- Strain the oil and mix it with 5 grams of beeswax and 10 grams of shea butter to create a smooth and even consistency.
10. Plantago major
Plantago major, also known as plantain, creams helps with boils because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The cream, derived from the plant's leaves, has been traditionally used to treat various skin conditions, including boils. The compounds present in plantain, such as aucubin and allantoin, have been shown to reduce inflammation, promote wound healing, and combat bacterial and fungal infections that can cause boils.
This makes plantain cream an effective natural remedy for soothing and healing boil-prone skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Plantago major creams that help with boils.
- Flavonoids: These compounds help reduce inflammation and prevent the growth of bacteria that cause boils, thereby promoting wound healing.
- Saponins: Saponins have antimicrobial properties that help combat bacterial infections, such as Staphylococcus aureus, which can cause boils.
- Silicic acid: Silicic acid has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness, swelling, and pain associated with boils.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of plantain used to make creams for boils.
- Leaves: Leaves of Plantago major contain mucilages, which provide anti-inflammatory and soothing properties to reduce boil inflammation and promote healing.
- Roots: The roots of Plantago major are rich in saponins and mucilages, which help to reduce inflammation and promote skin healing.
- Stems: The stems of Plantago major contain mucilages and other compounds that provide anti-inflammatory and soothing effects to help alleviate boil symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic plantain for boils.
- Harvest 30-40 leaves of plantago major, clean them thoroughly and chop them into small pieces weighing about 30g.
- Infuse 50g of chopped plantago major leaves in 1 liter of boiling water for 10 minutes then strain.
- Combine 20g of beeswax, 10g of coconut oil and 10g of shea butter in a double boiler.
- Add the 50g of plantago major infusion to the melted beeswax mixture and stir until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into small containers and let it cool and solidify for about 30 minutes.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for boils?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with boils is a blend of tea tree oil, aloe vera, and neem.
Tea tree oil's antimicrobial properties help combat bacterial infections, while aloe vera's anti-inflammatory properties reduce redness and swelling. Neem, with its antiseptic and antifungal properties, further aids in healing. Applying a mixture of these creams topically can help draw out the boil, reduce pain, and promote faster healing.
Regular application can also prevent future occurrences.
What ailments similar to boils are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to boils/creams.html">boils/creams.html">boils that are treated with herbal creams are pimples, acne, eczema, and keratosis pilaris.
These creams typically contain antibacterial and anti-inflammatory herbs such as tea tree oil, aloe vera, and neem, which help reduce inflammation, kill bacteria, and soothe the skin.
Additionally, herbal creams may also contain antifungal agents like turmeric and lavender to combat fungal infections that can cause similar skin lesions.