5 Ayurvedic Skin Burn Remedies for Quick Relief

Incidences of burns increase during Diwali. The ‘festival of lights’ is celebrated each year at the onset of winter to mark victory of light over darkness. In recent years, smoke and eardrum-splitting noise created by firecrackers have become a reason for worry. But another cause of concern is burns on hands or face caused by exploding crackers.

Ayurveda describes 4 different types of burns: Plusta, Durdadgha, Samyadagdha & Atidagdha. Diwali burns are mostly minor burns and come under the Plusta category. Here are 5 simple and very effective tips to treat a burn.

• Wash with Cucumber Water Put the affected area under running tap water for a few minutes and wash with cucumber water or rose water. Both of these have astringent properties and help in preventing infection.

• Apply Cucumber & Carrot or Aloe Vera Paste Grind cucumber and carrot in a blender or mash them finely in a mortar & pestle. Strain the juice out and apply the paste on the affected area. You can also crush Aloe Vera leaves and apply the pulp. If fresh leaves are not easily available, you can use Aloe Vera gel available in stores.

• Jatyadi Oil** Jatyadi Oil is a classical Ayurvedic formulation which heals burns and provides pain relief. Use a cotton ball and apply directly on the area.

• Ghee gives a cooling effect on the skin. If possible, take barks of Pipal and Bargad and mash it into a pulp. Add this to cow ghee and apply on the affected area. Applying plain ghee on burn area is also beneficial.

• Honey & Coconut Oil** Mix equal amounts of honey and plain coconut oil. Use this mixture on the burn area for relief. Instead of coconut oil you can use sesame oil as well.

Diet Recommendations

Fire is equivalent to Pitta and during burns Bhrajak Pitta which resides in the skin becomes significantly aggravated, hence choose a cooling diet. Spices, acidic foods and curd should be avoided. High blood sugar levels delay the process of healing hence avoid sugary beverages or desserts until the wound is properly healed.

In case of severe burns, please consult a doctor immediately.