7 Home Remedies To Treat A Butt Boil

Butt boils can be incredibly uncomfortable as well as embarrassing. Even simple actions like sitting down can cause a lot of pain. But fortunately, they’re quite common and usually not too serious.

What Is A Boil?

Boils are skin infections caused by a bacteria called Staphylococcus. It normally starts in a hair follicle or an oil gland. The skin initially reddens and then slowly becomes lump as inflammation sets in. It then turns white as pus starts to collect under the skin. Boils can appear anywhere from hands and legs to the scalp, but the buttocks can be especially susceptible.

What Is It Caused By?

You can get boils quite easily but there are some factors that can make you more vulnerable to them. These include:

• Diabetes
• Immune system problems
• Poor nutrition
• Poor hygiene
• Exposure to harsh chemicals
• Shaving/waxing
• Allergic reactions

When Should You See The Doctor

Boils should go away if you pay attention and try to keep them clean, but there are certain situations where you must seek medical attention immediately. Always see your doctor in the following situations.

• If you have immunity disorders or take immunity suppressants,
• If you have diabetes
• If you develop a fever or see more boils popping up since this may be a sign of a more serious infection called a carbuncle.
• If the pain becomes severe
• If the boil doesn’t drain

Home Remedies That Can Help Boils Disappear

Most boils will disappear by themselves as long as you keep them clean and don’t mess with it too much. These home remedies can help speed up that process and also help reduce any discomfort.

1. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is known for its soothing properties. Its anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce swelling and make things more comfortable for you to deal with.¹ Use pure aloe gel from a health store and apply directly on to the boil to relieve discomfort.

2. Turmeric

Turmeric is known for its antiseptic properties. It’s commonly used as a remedy for cuts and wounds and it may help prevent further infection from the boil to surrounding areas. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling.² Use about half a teaspoon of turmeric and mix it with enough water to make a thick paste. Apply this paste onto the boil and cover with a clean piece of cloth. This is an important step because turmeric stains on clothes are very difficult to get rid of.

3. Neem Oil

Neem is a plant that has popularly been used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat skin disorders. It also has antibacterial properties that can help heal the boil.³ It’s available in most health stores as cold pressed neem oil. Make sure the oil you are using is not clarified oil as it may be less effective. Use a small amount directly on the boil 4-5 times a day.

4. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil has long been used as a home remedy to treat pimples and acne. It may equally help in healing boils. Tea tree oil has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties as well which can help your boil disappear faster.⁴ Apply a few drops of tea tree oil directly on the boil 4-5 times a day.

5. Garlic

Garlic is popular for its antimicrobial and antibacterial properties so it’s no surprise that it can calm down an angry boil.⁵ If you can take its pungent odor, there’s no reason you shouldn’t try this remedy. Blend 5 cloves of garlic in a food processor to make a paste. Apply this on to the boil and cover with a clean cloth.

6. Warm Compress

Warmth can help improve blood circulation and help the boil progress through its stages faster. Continuing to use the warm compresses can help the boil drain. Make sure that whatever you’re using as a compress is clean. You don’t want any dirt causing further infection.

7. Coconut Oil

The skin around a boil can get flaky and itchy and coconut oil can help soothe this. Coconut oil is also shown to have antimicrobial properties that may also help the boil move along.⁶ Use coconut oil directly on the boil a few times during the day.

Hygiene Tips To Keep Further Infection At Bay

It’s very important to maintain good hygiene when waiting for a boil to go away.

• Dry the area well and apply a disinfectant every time you get out of the shower.
• Keep the boil dry and free of moisture.
• Avoid tight clothing and stick to underwear that is made of breathable fabric.
• Change towels and sheets every other day to prevent further infection.
• If you live with others, do not let them share the same bed as you. If they come in contact with the pus, there is a strong chance of it spreading boils to their skin as well.

As uncomfortable and embarrassing as a butt boil can be, don’t fret too much. With the help of these remedies it won’t last too long.