Blisters

Blisters are bubbles of fluid that develop when one layer of the skin detaches itself from the underlying layer through injury. As a result, serum fluid fills the gap.

Blisters develop as a result of an injury to the skin caused by continued friction, second-degree burns, chemicals which are extremely acidic or alkaline, and severe allergic reactions. More rarely, blistering on the skin over the entire body is the result of acute allergic reactions from the internal use of medications or from infections.

If the diet provides a good supply of nutrients used to reduce inflammation, blisters will tend to be less pronounced and less painful. The most important nutrients are the essential fatty acids linolenic acid and linoleic acid, which are found in unrefined, cold-pressed vegetable oils such as flax seed oil, sunflower oil or walnut oil. The essential fatty acids are transformed in the body to prostaglandins, which act as anti-inflammatory agents.
A diet rich in fresh, leafy green vegetables, and yellow and orange fruits and vegetables will provide the vitamins A and C which are needed for effective healing of skin tissue. The whites of citrus fruits and dark-colored fruits such as blueberries contain bioflavonoids which work together with vitamin C to speed healing.

Supplements and herbs

After the blister has formed, vitamin C with bioflavonoids taken daily for several days prevents infection and speeds tissue healing.

External herbal treatments provide soothing relief while working to heal the blister.

• For blisters caused by rubbing of new or poorly fitting shoes, dab on St. John's wort oil or tea tree oil diluted in olive oil twice daily.
• Dab calendula ointment on an opened blister. Aloe vera gel is also excellent for drying and healing an open blister. Do not use products with additives, which might irritate the skin.
• Add an antiseptic thyme infusion to the bath water.
• Apply crushed fresh dandelion leaves or dab dandelion juice on blister.
• Take advantage of the healing and soothing properties of plantain, which can be found on lawns and fields. Squash leaves and put them on the blister, or line the bottom of your shoes with the leaves to relieve and soothe tired feet.

What else you can do

• To avoid infection, do not open blisters. If the blister is likely to burst from friction, puncture it with a sterilized needle (held in a flame), drain the fluid and apply a bandage. Remove the bandage overnight to let the blister dry out.
• As a prevention, always wear comfortable shoes.
• To draw out moisture, spread honey on a clean cloth and place it on the blister. Honey is also known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

How much to take

• Vitamin C, with bioflavonoids, 1,000 mg three times daily

Back To Top