Cellulitis is a common but serious bacterial skin infection. The affected skin is swollen, red, painful, and heated to the touch. Aside from the lower legs, cellulitis can affect the face, arms, and other places.
When it comes to cellulitis treatment, many people seek effective solutions that go beyond conventional antibiotics. Natural treatments offer powerful alternatives that can help combat this skin infection. In this article, we explore various natural remedies, including garlic, oregano oil, calendula, and intravenous vitamin C, that can support your body in healing cellulitis naturally and effectively.
Cellulitis is a relatively common (and potentially serious) skin infection that involves bacteria. I’ve often found it to mostly affect the lower legs and/or feet. It will appear as a hot, swollen and very tender area that can itch like mad for some. Cellulitis can spread to different areas of the body and even potentially be life threatening in some of the more rare cases. It isn’t contagious so don’t worry about “catching” it from others!
Cellulitis can affect the deeper tissues of the body as well as the skin’s surface and it can also at times spread to your lymph nodes and get into the bloodstream and cause more widespread systemic infection. I’ve found this particularly so in those with very high levels of stress and poor diets.
It is most often caused by staphylococcus and streptococcus bacteria, but at times can also be caused by other types of bacteria. Most cases I’ve seen generally resolve within several days or a few weeks, but with some of the more serious cases it can drag on for months and months. The longer the infection, the higher the risk of cellulitis becoming more severe and even quite dangerous, leaving you wide open for a major systemic (and life threatening) infection.
If you are worried and don’t seem to get a handle on things, in spite of trying my suggestions below, then do see your doctor for a correct diagnosis and treatment. It is important to get right onto these kinds of infections promptly, and if it resolves and doesn’t come back then great, but if you find yourself with recurring cellulitis or antibiotic-resistant cellulitis then don’t waste your time taking repeated courses of antibiotics! You will only end up in a lot bigger mess than you did before.
Cellulitis occurs when streptococcus and staphylococcus bacteria enter through a break in your skin. The incidence of MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus), a much more serious staphylococcus infection, is increasing. It is one of the main reasons why I don’t like antibiotics.
Cellulitis can occur where the skin has been broken, and the lower limbs are often affected because the circulation to these areas is often less optimal than to the upper extremities. This means that less oxygen and nutrients reach the area, and fewer waste products are returned back to the liver and kidneys for processing. So make sure you treat any cuts, grazes, scratches, insect bites, ulcers, burns, or surgical wounds promptly. Skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema, or candida fungal infections can also make you more prone to cellulitis.
You don’t usually get cellulitis unless your immune and/or circulatory systems are compromised. You may like to read more about adrenal fatigue; I’ve found those who suffer from adrenal fatigue to be much more prone to cellulitis. With a good immune system, the bacteria on your skin’s surface will cause you no harm, even with cuts and scrapes, because infections will be promptly dealt with by a swift immune response. However, when your immune response is poor or weak, bacteria that penetrate the skin’s surface are much more likely to cause an infection that can lead to cellulitis.
Certain types of insect or spider bites can also transmit the bacteria that start the infection. Bacteria can also enter through areas of dry, flaky skin or swollen skin.
Any injury: A cut to your skin, any fracture, burn, or scrape that may give bacteria an entry point. Get right onto any acute kind of injury at once!
A weakened immune system response: Conditions that weaken your immune system—such as adrenal fatigue, hypothyroidism, diabetes, shingles, chickenpox, leukemia, and HIV/AIDS—leave you much more susceptible to different kinds of infections. Certain drugs like antibiotics and corticosteroids can also weaken your immune system, especially if used recurrently.
Different skin conditions: There are many different kinds of skin problems like eczema, psoriasis, athlete’s foot, shingles, and chickenpox that can cause breaks in your skin’s surface and allow bacteria an easy entry point.
Diabetes: Those with diabetes are much more prone to developing cellulitis. I’ve seen many diabetics with this condition, especially those who are carrying excess weight with poorly controlled blood sugar levels.
Candida patients: Men or women with recurrent or chronic candida yeast infections are more prone to cellulitis due to their weakened immune response.
Lymphedema: Chronic swelling of your arms or legs caused by an accumulation of lymph fluid may crack, leaving your skin especially vulnerable to bacterial infection.
Poor circulation: Do you have varicose veins or hemorrhoids? Do you have problems with cold feet or poor circulation to your legs? You may be at a higher risk of cellulitis.
A previous history of cellulitis: Have you previously had cellulitis, especially of the lower leg? Then you may be more prone to develop it recurrently.
IV drug use: People who inject illegal drugs have a higher risk of developing cellulitis, as well as a whole host of other diseases like hepatitis.
Carrying Excess Weight: This is a major cause. I’ve found that being being in the heavier person category increases your risk of developing cellulitis and having recurring episodes.
Poor diet and lifestyle: Those people who eat the wrong (junk) foods and who lead a lifestyle that includes the ‘sitting’ disease, i.e., they don’t get off their chair enough and move around.
There are many possible signs and symptoms of cellulitis, and no two cases will look exactly the same. As I’ve mentioned previously, the infection mostly occurs on the lower legs but at times if chronic and more serious may occur anywhere on your body. In most all cases, the affected area usually looks red and swollen, and feels hot, tender and painful. It may itch and this can range from mild to severe and most extreme. Here are some of the most common signs and symptoms:
Your doctor will prescribe antibiotics, and while you may not like this kind of treatment (nor do I) there is a time and place for this kind of treatment, especially if the infection is serious or not responding to any kind natural treatment (rare but possible). I’m interested in recommending you the most effective natural treatments, but sometimes the pharmaceutical drugs may need to be called upon.
If you have a fever and a bad case of cellulitis you will want to go to your emergency room promptly, you may well be requiring intravenous antibiotics by this stage, but if you follow my recommendations on this page you may well be able to fast track your recovery and avoid all these more invasive (and side effect) treatments.
The trick is to treat ANY skin infections promptly and don’t let the infection get out of hand! Use Tea Tree Oil (Australian) immediately on any cut, scrape or wound. It makes sense for you to avoid an infection getting out of hand in the first place, rather than trying to treat a full-blown infection. Would you try and put out a house fire when the entire structure is in flames, including the roof? I think it would be a bit wiser to put out the fire in the pan on the stove first, don’t you?
Australian tea tree oil is one of the most potent (and my favourite) of the essential oils when it comes to curing skin infections. Tea tree oil (be sure it is Melaleuca alternifolia, Australian tea tree oil) is renowned for its strong antibacterial, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties and is therefore highly beneficial for treating cellulitis. The indigenous Aboriginal people of north-eastern New South Wales (a State of Australia) had known about the healing and disinfecting properties of tea tree oil for tens of thousands of years, long before the development of any pharmaceutical drugs. They applied poultices of crushed tea tree leaves to cuts and wounds and inhaled the volatile oil from the crushed leaves to alleviate congestion and respiratory tract infections.
The scientific discovery of the plant’s virtues came in 1923 when the leading state government chemist, Arthur Penfold, tested the oil of the tea tree and determined its antiseptic action was about 12 times stronger than the widely used carbolic acid. Extensive clinical trials with medical and dental colleagues in London and Sydney led to glowing reports in the distinguished scientific journals of the day.
Indeed, the 1930’s and 1940’s saw tea tree oil widely acclaimed as a “near perfect antiseptic”, so much so that during World War II Australian soldiers were issued with tea tree oil in their first aid kits. The troops also sang the praises of tea tree oil’s insect repellent and anti-fungal properties. At home, it was put to an amazing spectrum of uses from shampoo, toothpaste and smelly feet to boils, acne and head lice. It is absolutely perfect for cellulitis.
Here is how you use tea tree oil:
The coconut palm, or Cocos nucifera, is a remarkable member of the palm family (Arecaceae). This “tree of life” thrives in tropical and subtropical regions and is prized for its incredible versatility. From its husk to its oil, water, and copra, every part of the coconut palm has a use, be it domestic, commercial, or industrial.
Incorporating coconut oil and coconut cream into your daily diet can work wonders in inhibiting and even killing off various bacteria and candida, much like tea tree oil and garlic. Coconut oil’s fatty acids are potent against many pathogens, including yeasts and bacteria. Plus, it supports immune function, supplies essential nutrients, and improves digestion and nutrient absorption from proteins and carbohydrates.
Unlike those harmful hydrogenated fats, the saturated fat in coconut oil is easily digested and absorbed. It places minimal strain on your digestive system while providing a quick energy boost essential for healing.
Coconut oil, cream, and butter are absorbed directly into the bloodstream from the intestines via the lymph system, unlike other fats that require pancreatic enzymes and bile for digestion. This makes coconut oil especially beneficial for people with gallbladder issues or those who have had their gallbladders removed, as they can tolerate it without experiencing reflux or nausea.
When you buy coconut oil, go for one that is cold-pressed or expeller-pressed, unrefined, unbleached, undeodorized, and non-hydrogenated. Coconut oil is highly resistant to spoilage and boasts a long shelf life, making it a staple for your pantry. Despite what you might have heard, cultures around the world have consumed coconut products for thousands of years, enjoying long, healthy, and productive lives.
Coconut oil solidifies at cooler temperatures and has a high burning point, making it ideal for cooking. Use it alone or mixed with other healthy fats for frying and sautéing. You can also take it by the spoonful with meals to aid digestion or melt it on cooked foods. It’s common to experience some stomach upsets or diarrhea initially due to its antifungal properties and toxin-cleansing effects. Increased mucus production in the intestines, throat, nose, sinuses, and lungs is also part of the healing process.
Coconut oil contains a variety of medium-chain fatty acids that fight bacteria and yeasts. It’s soothing for the skin and possesses healing properties, making it an excellent carrier oil for treating cellulitis, especially when combined with tea tree or oregano oil.
1. Mix a few drops of Australian tea tree oil with coconut oil.
2. Apply the mixture to the affected area.
3. Leave it on for several hours before washing it off.
4. Re-apply at least two to three times daily until the cellulitis clears up.
By including coconut oil in your cellulitis treatment routine, you’re harnessing its natural healing properties to support your body’s recovery. Embrace this natural remedy, and you’ll likely see the benefits firsthand.
Turmeric, a member of the ginger family, is a root commonly grown in many Asian countries. It gives curry dishes their distinctive yellow color, which is a staple in Asian cooking. While it’s gained popularity in recent years, naturopaths like myself have been recommending it for over two decades. Turmeric is renowned for its powerful natural antibiotic and antiseptic properties, making it a valuable ally in preventing and treating cellulitis. Its active compound, curcumin, also delivers potent anti-inflammatory benefits.
When choosing turmeric, look for fresh powder with a vibrant yellow or orange color—this indicates higher quality. I usually get mine in bulk from local Asian grocers because I use it for various applications. Turmeric contains curcumin, which works best when combined with a fat or oil before use. Despite the availability of pricey turmeric supplements, simple turmeric powder does the job well.
1. Turmeric Milk Drink:
– Mix one teaspoon of high-quality turmeric powder (look for vibrant color) in a glass of milk (cow’s, almond, oat, etc.).
– Warm the mixture gently without boiling. If desired, add a touch of New Zealand Manuka honey.
– Drink this warm turmeric milk twice daily until the infection clears, aiming for 4 to 8 ounces each time.
2. Curcumin Powder Supplement:
– If you prefer not to consume turmeric milk, take 500 to 600 mg of standardized curcumin powder three times daily for two to three months.
– From my clinical experience, the turmeric milk drink tends to be more effective overall.
3. Turmeric Poultice:
– Make a turmeric poultice by mixing one tablespoon of New Zealand Manuka honey with one level teaspoon of turmeric powder and four drops of tea tree oil.
– Add enough bentonite clay (about two teaspoons) to form a smooth paste.
– Apply this turmeric poultice to the affected area, leaving it on for 30 to 45 minutes before rinsing off.
– Use this poultice daily for up to two weeks or longer if you find it beneficial.
These methods harness the therapeutic power of turmeric to effectively manage cellulitis, supporting natural healing processes in the body.
Calendula is a herbal remedy I frequently use to accelerate skin healing. Its vibrant orange flowers are a common sight in summer gardens. Calendula is particularly effective for treating wounds and infections, aiding rapid healing of skin cells. It soothes red, swollen, tender, and irritated skin, combating bacterial infections effectively, which is why it’s a popular ingredient in many personal care products. Additionally, calendula enhances blood and lymphatic circulation to affected areas, stimulating collagen production to promote healing of wounds, burns, and scars.
To begin, gather some calendula flowers. Steep one tablespoon of crushed calendula flowers in a cup of very hot water. Cover immediately and let it sit for 15 minutes. Dip a clean cloth into this herbal infusion and apply it to the affected area, focusing on the edges of any wounds, cuts, infections, or ulcers. Leave it on for at least 20 minutes. Repeat this process at least three times daily for two weeks.
If fresh calendula flowers aren’t available, consider using calendula herbal tincture. Mix one teaspoon of the tincture into a tablespoon of warm water and apply this solution instead of the calendula-infused water.
Oregano (Origanum vulgare) is a perennial herb native to warm-temperate regions of western and southwestern Eurasia and the Mediterranean. It grows to a height of 20 inches, with purple flowers and spade-shaped, olive-green leaves. Historically, oregano has been used in the Mediterranean for its ability to slow down food spoilage due to its antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic, and antioxidant properties.
Oregano oil is derived from wild oregano species, harvested from remote mountainous regions free from pollution. The leaves of the flowering plant are picked when they contain the highest essential oil content. Top-quality oregano oil is grown chemical-free and extracted naturally without solvents.
Oregano oil is a potent antibacterial and antifungal agent, containing various volatile oils that are highly effective against pathogenic bacteria and yeasts, including staph, strep, and E.coli. Unlike many pharmaceutical antibiotics, bacterial and fungal resistance to oregano oil is exceptionally rare.
Oregano oil is particularly effective against resistant fungal forms, such as those resulting from antibiotic therapy. It is an excellent choice for treating yeast infections and cellulitis, combining well with allicin-rich garlic extract for maximum efficacy.
Oregano oil contains phenolic compounds like carvacrol and thymol, which offer antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory qualities. A study published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology found that a 3 percent oregano extract ointment reduced bacterial contamination and infection in post-surgical wounds.
1. Topical Application:
– Dilute 10 drops of oregano oil in two tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, coconut oil, or jojoba oil. Coconut oil is ideal for cellulitis, while jojoba oil is suitable for excessively dry skin.
– Apply the mixture to the affected area and leave it on for at least two hours. Reapply a few times daily, covering the affected areas thoroughly.
2. Internal Use:
– For convenience, use oregano oil capsules from Allergy Research, available at my Doctor Supplement Store. Take one capsule three times daily with food for several weeks. If you experience heartburn, gas, or bloating, reduce the dosage to one or two capsules daily.
– Alternatively, mix five drops of oregano oil in a glass of water or juice. Drink it three times daily for a few days, then reduce the dosage to three drops as a maintenance dose for about 10 days.
– Be cautious when using full-strength oregano oil on broken skin, as it may sting or burn. Always dilute it first.
– Pregnant women should avoid oregano oil as it can stimulate the uterus and interfere with pregnancy.
– For external use, apply oregano oil sparingly, avoiding the eyes. For genital application, mix one drop of oregano oil with a teaspoon of olive or coconut oil.
Oregano oil is a powerful, natural remedy for infections, offering a safe and effective alternative to conventional antibiotics. By integrating oregano oil into your treatment plan, you can harness nature’s antibiotic properties to combat cellulitis and other infections.
Manuka honey, native to New Zealand where I reside, has been revered for its unique properties for millennia. Not all honeys are created equal, and certain varieties, like Manuka honey derived from the New Zealand Manuka bush (Leptospermum scoparium), boast exceptional attributes.
Ensure you buy genuine New Zealand Manuka honey with a high UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) rating, which can range up to 30—the higher, the better. Authentic Manuka honey must contain DHA (dihydroxyacetone), Methylglyoxal, and Leptosperin to receive a UMF® grading, guaranteeing purity and quality.
Manuka honey with a robust UMF rating is particularly rich in phytochemicals known for their efficacy against various infections, particularly staph infections. These active compounds also exhibit antimicrobial properties that can combat antibiotic-resistant MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus). Beyond its antibacterial effects, Manuka honey accelerates wound healing and has proven effective in treating ulcers, burns, post-surgical skin healing, and cellulitis.
Ensure you are using authentic Manuka honey, especially if outside New Zealand.
Apply Manuka honey generously to the affected area, focusing on the edges of severe cellulitis areas.
Leave it on for at least 2 hours before rinsing it off.
Repeat this process twice daily until you achieve desired results.
Garlic, scientifically known as Allium sativum, belongs to the onion genus Allium, alongside onions, shallots, and leeks. With a history spanning over 7,000 years, garlic originates from central Asia and has been a dietary staple across Mediterranean, Asian, African, and European cuisines. Renowned for both its culinary allure and medicinal properties, garlic was revered by ancient civilizations like the Egyptians.
Garlic stands out as a potent natural remedy due to its robust antibacterial and antifungal properties. Numerous scientific studies confirm its efficacy, often comparing it favorably to conventional pharmaceuticals in combating bacterial and yeast infections. Unlike pharmaceuticals, bacteria and fungi are less likely to develop resistance to garlic, making it a sustainable and reliable option for long-term use.
Allicin, garlic’s active compound, is responsible for its powerful antimicrobial effects, effectively reducing inflammation alongside its anti-inflammatory properties.
1. Raw Garlic Consumption:
– Consume one or two crushed raw garlic cloves daily over several weeks. If the taste is too strong, follow with fresh parsley or milk to alleviate discomfort.
2. Garlic Infused Coconut Oil:
– Prepare garlic-infused coconut oil by crushing several cloves and mixing them with coconut oil. Let it sit for a few weeks, then strain the oil. Apply this oil to affected skin areas, leaving it on for several hours before rinsing off. Repeat twice daily for optimal results.
3. Direct Application:
– For a direct application method, finely chop or crush garlic cloves and apply them directly to the infected skin site for several minutes. Note that this method may not be suitable for sensitive skin; perform a patch test before use.
Integrating garlic into your daily routine not only enhances your culinary experiences but also fortifies your health with its natural healing properties against infections.
I’ve saved the best for last: intravenous (IV) vitamin C. This method delivers high-dose vitamin C directly into your bloodstream, ensuring immediate action. The key advantage of IV therapy over oral vitamin C is that it bypasses the digestive system, allowing the vitamin C to reach the cells and tissues that need it most without delay.
In chronic conditions like cellulitis, where the immune system is often compromised, IV vitamin C offers a significant benefit. Large doses can be administered safely and comfortably without causing the digestive discomfort (such as diarrhea) often associated with high oral doses. IV therapy enables the delivery of much larger therapeutic doses without any gastrointestinal disturbances.
IV vitamin C is an extremely safe treatment with a long history of use by both medical doctors and naturopathic practitioners worldwide. It is particularly effective for serious infections like cellulitis, offering a safe alternative to many pharmaceutical drugs with minimal side effects.
However, you cannot self-administer intravenous vitamin C. You must work with a healthcare professional experienced in this treatment. Dosages typically range from 20,000 to 50,000 units or even more, depending on the severity of the condition. Treatments can vary from once daily to several times a week, tailored to the specific needs of each patient.
Once I had a dental abscess that I used Goldenseal Extract on. It “pulled out” the infection and cleared the abscess in about 6 hours where I didn’t have to see the dentist.
Now I have cellulitis infection in the knuckle of my large (middle) finger, causing it to be swollen and sore. Should the Goldenseal Extract or any of the remedies suggested here be capable of “pulling out” the infection in my finger?
Get a small bottle of Australian Tea Tree oil, best brand is Thursday Plantation. This stuff is truly a gift from God, I’ve seen it even cure gangrene. Soak a small cotton ball and wrap it around the knuckle overnight. Do this 2 – 3x per week. Let me know what happens.
Where can I get good quality Melaleuca alternifolia, Australian tea tree oil? An Oregano oil?
Look for therapeutic-grade oils that are 100% pure, organically grown, and third-party tested for quality. Reputable brands often list the botanical name, country of origin, and chemotype on the label. For tea tree oil, that’s Melaleuca alternifolia (preferably from Australia) – we love Thursday Plantation’s products; for oregano, look for Origanum vulgare rich in carvacrol. Kind regards, Tracee