Burns and Neem

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Burns and NeemNeem has been used for centuries to treat problems of the skin and toprevent infection (Singh, et al, 1979). Neem reduces the pain, killsbacteria that can cause infection, stimulates the local immune system andpromotes rapid healing with reduced scarring.Burns are treated very effectively with a neem-based cream spread lightly onthe affected area. Most minor burns can be treated successfully at home byfollowing these steps:Cool the burn. Hold the burned area under cold running water for 15 minutes.If impractical immerse it in cold water or cover with cold compresses.Cooling the burn reduces swelling by carrying heat away from your skin.Don't use ice to cool a burn because it can further damage your skin.Don't use butter. Using butter on burned skin can further damage your skinand increase your risk of infection.Moisturize. Once a burn is completely cooled, apply a lotion or cream. Itwill help keep the burned area from drying out and may make the burn morecomfortable as it heals. Continue to apply the cream until the burn hashealed completely.Bandage the burn. Cover the burn with a sterile gauze bandage. Wrap thebandage loosely to avoid putting pressure on burned skin. Bandaging helpskeep air off the area and reduces pain.Handle blisters with care. Fluid-filled blisters help protect againstinfection, so don't break them. If they do break, wash the area with mildsoap and water and then apply an antibiotic ointrnent and gauze bandage.Use over-the-counter pain relievers. If necessary, acetaminophen oribuprofen can help relieve the pain of minor burns.Without further treatment, most minor burns will usually heal in about oneto two weeks. But make sure you monitor the burn for signs of infection.Sunburns may also be treated with neem-based creams.