The human body has a remarkable ability to heal itself.  We need only observe the normal healing process following a minor cut or graze to witness this everyday miracle.  

In most cases minor wounds need only be cleaned, and covered if necessary with a plaster or suitable dressing.  If bleeding persists (but is not serious) then pressure and elevation will usually be enough to stop it before covering the wound.

Sometimes however a wound is more serious, or our normal healing capacity is compromised, and then help is needed.  Medical assistance should be sought in the case of wounds that are large, where the bleeding is persistent or severe, or you are concerned about infection or foreign bodies in the wound – use your common sense and if you are concerned seek medical help without delay.  You can always take remedies on your way to A&E or your local walk-in centre.  

Below are nine effective homeopathic remedies that can be used at home to support and promote wound healing.

Arnica is the first remedy to consider in any case of trauma.  It will help to reduce bruising, swelling, pain and emotional shock.  Arnica will also stop the bleeding promptly in many cases.  I recommend taking Arnica 30c internally in most cases – do not use topical Arnica cream, gel or ointment where the skin is broken, as this can produce a painful rash.  

Hamamelis is another notable remedy which is indicated in haemorrhage following injury, and is most often indicated in prolonged haemorrhage following tooth extraction, for example, or a nosebleed following a blow to the nose.  

Hypericum is indicated in injuries to areas which are especially rich in nerves, for example, fingers, toes, lips, and other sensitive parts.  In wound care it is particularly useful for painful lacerations and all injuries which are very painful to touch.  

Ledum is perhaps better known for its use in treating insect bites and stings, but it is also one of the main remedies used in treating larger punctured wounds, especially those caused by a sharp object (eg from standing on a nail).  In Ledum cases, the affected part tends to feel cold to the touch.

Calendula is justifiably well known as a herb for its antiseptic properties.  It can be used as a tincture to make a lotion for bathing a wound.  Add 5 drops of tincture to one tablespoon of cool boiled water to make a basic lotion for bathing the affected area.  Calendula can also be taken internally in potency (eg 6c or 12c) to treat and prevent suppuration.

Gunpowder which, as Dr Dorothy Shepherd pointed out in 1938, can cure as well as kill, has long been used as a treatment for suppurating wounds.  According to Dr Shepherd, soldiers in the nineteenth century knew of it, and took it in its crude form, mixed in hot water.  In homeopathic potency it will heal infected wounds and abscesses, and prevent sepsis.  

Silica is used in the treatments of abscesses and suppurating wounds which are not painful, especially where we might expect them to be.  Silica is frequently indicated in chronic long term cases (which require professional treatment), where there are recurrent infections, and a tendency to suppuration, even in minor injuries.

Hepar sulph is an important remedy in the treatment of injuries which quickly become infected, especially where there is tremendous sensitivity to touch and temperature.  These injuries are typically highly sensitive and distressing to the individual, and Hepar sulph will often provide swift relief.

Myristica has a strong reputation as a remedy for traumatic injury with suppuration, and is said to have ‘great antiseptic powers’.  it should be compared with Silica and Hepar sulph in this regard, and is said to act more powerfully than these two remedies.  It is especially known for healing whitlows (an infection or abscess of the fingertips), and the pain is often intense with marked swelling.  

Please get in touch if you would like further remedy advice, or to book an appointment to see me.