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Chilblains
are a painful sore appearing on the foot or the hand which is caused by exposure to cold
What to look for
red, itching on the
extremities of the body such as fingers, toes, nose, ears
swelling can occur
Causes
This condition may be
associated with poor circulation.
Traditional Treatments
The best treatment is to
avoid getting cold and wet. Try hard not to scratch them.
Alternative/Natural
Treatments
Herbal Remedies
- A herbal poultice which may be useful can be made from one part cayenne pepper, one part slippery elm powder and two parts vegetable oil,
mixed together and applied morning and night.
A poultice of chickweed is also known to ease the pain of chilblains.
Another good herb for chilblains is prickly ash - available as a tincture or in fluid
extract.
Try a cup of ginger tea twice a day. Eat garlic
or take garlic capsules.
Ginkgo
may also be very helpful for this condition.
Aromatherapy -
Try black pepper essential oil in a foot
bath or diluted in a light base cream.
Dietary Considerations
Eat more fish, fresh
fruit and vegetables, fibre, filtered water and get plenty of gentle exercise.
When to seek further
professional advice
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